The Planning (Hazardous Substances) (Northern Ireland) (No. 2) Regulations 2015, No. 344 (as amended)

The Planning (Hazardous Substances) (Northern Ireland) (No. 2) Regulations 2015 aim to regulate the storage and handling of hazardous substances in Northern Ireland. These regulations serve to safeguard public safety, environmental health, and property from the potential risks associated with such substances.

The key requirements are:

1. Notification and Consent: Operators handling hazardous substances are obligated to notify the relevant authorities of their activities. This includes providing detailed information about the nature and quantity of the substances involved.
2. Safety Measures: Operators are required to implement appropriate safety measures to minimize the risks associated with hazardous substances. This may include the installation of safety equipment, emergency response plans, and containment measures.
3. Land Use Planning: The regulations establish specific requirements for land use planning in areas where hazardous substances are present. This may involve restrictions on certain types of developments or activities in close proximity to these sites.
4. Public Information: The public has a right to be informed about the presence of hazardous substances in their vicinity. Operators are often required to provide information to the local community and emergency services regarding the nature of the substances, potential risks, and safety measures in place.
5. Environmental Impact Assessment: In certain cases, operators may be required to conduct an environmental impact assessment to evaluate potential environmental consequences associated with the handling of hazardous substances.

These regulations apply to any person or entity involved in the storage, handling, or transportation of hazardous substances in Northern Ireland. This encompasses a wide range of industries, including but not limited to chemical manufacturing, transportation, storage facilities, and industrial sites where hazardous substances are utilised.

Overall, The Planning (Hazardous Substances) (Northern Ireland) (No. 2) Regulations 2015 establish a framework to ensure that the activities involving hazardous substances are conducted in a safe and environmentally responsible manner, while also keeping the local community informed and protected.

Here is a list of potential evidence of compliance based on the requirements of The Planning (Hazardous Substances) (Northern Ireland) (No. 2) Regulations 2015:

1. Notification and Consent: Copies of notifications submitted to relevant authorities; and acknowledgement or confirmation of receipt from authorities.
2. Safety Measures: Documentation of safety equipment installations and specifications; emergency response plans, including evacuation procedures and contact information for emergency services; and records of regular inspections, maintenance, and testing of safety equipment.
3. Land Use Planning: Reports or assessments demonstrating compliance with land use planning requirements; and Records of any restrictions imposed on developments or activities near hazardous substance sites.
4. Public Information: Copies of communications distributed to the local community and emergency services regarding hazardous substances.; and logs or records of community outreach efforts.
5. Environmental Impact Assessment: Environmental impact assessment reports, including findings, recommendations, and any actions taken in response; and documentation showing compliance with any recommendations made in the assessment.
6. Training and Certification: Records of employee training in handling hazardous substances; certifications or licenses for personnel involved in the handling or management of hazardous substances; and records of any third-party certifications or audits related to compliance.
7. Incident and Response: Incident reports detailing any incidents involving hazardous substances; documentation of the response measures taken to mitigate risks and prevent further incidents; and records of any corrective actions implemented as a result of incidents.
8. Inspection and Audit: Reports from internal and external inspections, audits, or assessments related to compliance with the regulations; and records of any findings, recommendations, or actions taken in response to inspection or audit reports.
9. Waste Management Records: Documentation of proper disposal and handling of hazardous waste, including manifests and receipts from licensed waste management facilities.
10. Permit and License Records: Copies of permits or licenses related to the storage, handling, or transportation of hazardous substances.
11. Monitoring and Testing Records: Records of any monitoring or testing conducted to assess the condition and safety of hazardous substance storage or handling facilities.

By maintaining these records, operators can provide clear and verifiable evidence of their compliance with The Planning (Hazardous Substances) (Northern Ireland) (No. 2) Regulations 2015, ensuring the safe and responsible management of hazardous substances.