Which federal agency oversees HAZMAT regulations?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the federal agency primarily responsible for overseeing regulations related to hazardous materials. The EPA's mission includes protecting human health and the environment by enforcing regulations that manage hazardous waste and pollutants. This includes establishing standards for hazardous waste management under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and implementing the Superfund program to clean up hazardous waste sites.

The role of the EPA encompasses a wide array of responsibilities that directly impact how hazardous materials are handled, disposed of, and stored, ensuring safety and compliance with federal environmental laws. By regulating hazardous waste management practices, the EPA plays a crucial role in minimizing risks to public health and the environment associated with hazardous materials.

Other agencies, like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), focus on workplace safety, particularly regarding employee exposure to hazardous substances. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) concentrates on the safety of nuclear materials and energy, while the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulates the transportation of hazardous materials. However, when it comes to overarching regulations specifically governing hazardous wastes and pollution control measures, the EPA is the leading federal authority.