Thousands of Hazardous Sites Monitored Across Illinois

Illinois officials are urging residents to become more aware of hazardous materials in their communities as thousands of facilities statewide store regulated chemicals.

Hidden Hazards in Illinois Communities

All across the state of Illinois, there are thousands of facilities that store chemicals that could pose risks to the public if mishandled, yet many residents don't even know what's nearby their home or how to interpret safety signage.

Agencies like the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS), Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA), and Illinois Department of Labor work behind the scenes to monitor and regulate these materials, ensuring businesses follow strict safety protocols.

A Statewide Safety Network

Officials say Illinois maintains nearly 9,200 active chemical facilities that are considered Tier II, and are required to report hazardous inventories on an annual basis, under the Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know Act.

When properly managed and stored, these chemicals can be used safely and utilized by responsible parties. The State of Illinois has proactive and well-trained regional and local responders, which reduces risk. -David Martin, IEMA-OHS Hazardous Materials Section Supervisor

These reports are critical for emergency planners and first responders preparing for potential chemical spills or releases.

Training First Responders

The state collaborates with the Illinois Fire Service Institute to provide specialized hazardous materials training, funded in part through federal programs.

This training extends beyond firefighters to public employees who may encounter dangerous substances during routine work, reinforcing a coordinated emergency response system.

What Residents Should Know

Through its role as Illinois' designated State Emergency Response Commission, IEMA-OHS works with local emergency planning committees to ensure communities have access to critical safety data.

Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with preparedness resources available through the Ready Illinois platform, which outlines steps to take before, during, and after emergencies.