Filthy Contaminants of Chemicals KS
The regulation and remediation of chemical contamination and "filthy" containment in Kansas is overseen by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Chemical contaminants are toxic substances that are present where they shouldn't be, or at concentrations higher than natural levels, posing risks to human health and the environment. They include both naturally occurring substances, as well as man-made ones such as pesticides, industrial chemicals, and byproducts from processes like plastics and pharmaceuticals. These contaminants can be found in various environments like air, water, and soil, and can be introduced to the food chain through farming, processing, or environmental pollution.
Reporting Chemical Spills or Violations
If you encounter an immediate threat to human health or the environment, the following actions are recommended:
- Call 911 first.
- Report to the National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802.
- To report general environmental violations to the EPA, use their Report Environmental Violations page.
Key Kansas Agencies and Programs
The primary state agency addressing chemical issues is the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE).
- Bureau of Environmental Remediation (BER): This bureau manages environmental contamination through pollution source control, containment, and remedial action at sites contaminated by spills, illegal dumping, abandoned facilities, and landfills.
- Pesticide and Fertilizer Program: This program sets requirements for secondary containment to minimize loss in the event of a primary container leak of bulk pesticides or fertilizers.
- Clandestine Drug Lab Information: The KDHE and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) work together on the cleanup of former methamphetamine labs. If chemicals or precursors from a clandestine lab are found, contact local law enforcement or the KBI at 1-800-KSCRIME.
- Household Hazardous Waste (HHW): The KDHE provides guidance for the proper disposal of HHW materials. Contact information for local HHW programs is available on the KDHE website.