Which agency is responsible for regulating hazardous materials in the U.S.?

The agency responsible for regulating hazardous materials in the U.S. is the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA plays a critical role in managing the risk associated with hazardous substances in the environment. This includes regulating the disposal, spill response, and overall management of hazardous materials to protect human health and the environment.

The EPA implements various laws related to hazardous waste, such as the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), which governs the disposal of solid and hazardous waste, and the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), which is focused on cleaning up sites contaminated with hazardous substances. Through these regulations, the EPA ensures the safety of individuals and communities by monitoring hazardous materials and enforcing compliance among businesses and industry sectors.

Other agencies mentioned have different but important roles. The FAA focuses on aviation and air travel safety, OSHA is concerned with occupational safety and health standards, and the FDA regulates food and drug safety. While they may address certain aspects of safety related to hazardous materials, they do not have the primary responsibility for regulating hazardous materials in the same comprehensive way that the EPA does.