What is a Toxic Release Inventory (aka TRI, SARA 313, Form R)?
What Is It?
TRI first came into existence in 1986 as part of the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA) and Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA). EPA wanted a way for the public to learn more information about the chemicals used in their communities so it setup a reporting system for companies using potentially harmful chemicals above certain thresholds.
Reporting Criteria
In order to qualify for TRI reporting, your company must: Employ 10 or more employees; Fall under an identified NAICS code; and Manufacture, process, or use a chemical on the TRI list of approximately 770 chemicals at a threshold above allowed levels.
Report Format
TRI uses two different forms for reporting, Form R and Form A. Form A is a shortened form and only available if your company meets certain criteria. A form must be completed for each chemical you manufacture, process or use in quantities above the threshold.
How are TRI Reports Submitted?
TRI reports are completed federally through EPA’s TRI-MEweb website. You will need to make copies to submit to your state agency as well. This information will become public information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) and who must report?
TRI, also called SARA 313 or Form R, is an EPA-mandated public reporting system established under EPCRA. Facilities must report if they employ 10 or more employees, fall under identified NAICS industry codes, and manufacture, process, or use any of approximately 770 chemicals above threshold quantities. TRI reports are public information available to communities and environmental regulators.
Q: What are the threshold quantities for TRI reporting?
TRI thresholds vary by chemical and activity. Manufacturing or processing typically requires 25,000 pounds annually; otherwise use thresholds range from 10,000 to 25,000 pounds. Some chemicals like certain persistent bioaccumulative toxics have lower thresholds. Facilities in Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Nebraska, and Texas must identify all chemicals on the TRI list used above threshold quantities.
Q: What is the difference between TRI Form R and Form A?
Form R is a comprehensive TRI report requiring detailed information about chemical quantities, releases, and waste management. Form A is a shortened form available only to facilities meeting specific criteria (typically smaller quantities or lower toxicity chemicals). Form A simplifies reporting for eligible facilities while maintaining EPA data collection requirements.
Q: What is the TRI reporting deadline and where are forms submitted?
TRI reports (based on the previous calendar year) are typically due July 1 annually. Facilities submit reports through EPA’s TRI-MEweb portal and must also submit copies to their state environmental agency. Reports become public information and are searchable in EPA’s databases, making community disclosure an important aspect of compliance.
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