Residents of Ontario, California, sharpen your pencils and prepare to sound off on a local food company's chemical safety plan. Ventura Foods, LLC, located at 2900 E. Jurupa Street, has the spotlight as the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District opens up its Risk Management Plan (RMP) for public scrutiny. This RMP notably addresses the storage of anhydrous ammonia, a chemical with the potential for significant hazard if not managed properly.
Starting April 22, 2024, and continuing through June 5, 2024, the public comment period is an opportunity for the community to weigh in. Anyone interested, from vigilant locals to environmental advocates, can access the plan for review. Appointments can be made with the Hazardous Materials Section by calling (909) 386-8401 or visiting the office on ‘E’ Street during regular business hours.
The Hazardous Materials Section stands as the gatekeeper for the RMP's integrity, making sure that what Ventura Foods has put on paper matches the stringent requirements of the California Health & Safety Code. Transparency is key in this process, and the company's approach to dealing with anhydrous ammonia — a substance that poses risks of thermal burns and is a significant risk if released — holds it accountable to those who breathe the air and walk the soil in its shadows.
When scribbling down your concerns or nods of approval, remember that all comments must make their way in writing to the RMP Coordinator by the 5:00 P.M. deadline on June 5. Send your thoughts to the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District, Hazardous Materials Section, to ensure your voice is heard. For those looking to dive into the document, the full RMP is a click away at Ventura Foods' RMP, available for your perusal.
This announcement comes as industries across the nation face increased scrutiny over the handling of hazardous materials. In a time when environmental and public safety concerns are taking center stage, such public comment periods empower the community to participate directly in the discourse surrounding industrial safety practices and their implementation. It's more than just about a company and its operations; it's about the health and safety of a community and its environment.
