The Passaic County Department of Health Services (PCDHS) is the lead agency for responding to hazardous materials emergencies (HAZMAT) by virtue of our certification from the Department of Environmental Protection and by the County Ordinance.  As part of this capability, we have developed a network to coordinate with the local fire departments that have local HAZMAT capabilities through formal interlocal agreements.  Hazardous Materials consist of solids, liquids, or gases that can harm people, property, or other living organisms.  The PCDHS focuses on prevention and offers several free recycling events for Passaic County residents and businesses to dispose of tires, paper, electronics, and hazardous waste.

The Passaic County Board of County Commissioners has put into effect a countywide ordinance which prohibits, and requires reporting of, the discharge of hazardous substances into our environment.

• The “Emergency Response & Cost Recovery Ordinance” identifies the Passaic County Department of Health Services as the lead agency responsible for coordination of emergency response to hazardous material incidents. It also allows the Passaic County Department of Health Services and any of its agents to recover the cost of providing such responses.
• The Passaic County Department of Health Services has formed a Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Unit, which works in cooperation with local provider agencies such as the County Sheriff’s Department and local fire departments.
• The release, discharge or spill of chemicals or material classified as hazardous into the air, water, or soil must be reported by the responsible party within 15 minutes of becoming aware of the incident.  The Party must call the DEP 24 hour Hot Line at 1-877-WARNDEP.
• In addition to calling the DEP Hot Line, anyone who has knowledge of hazardous material discharges is asked to call the Passaic County Sheriff’s Department at (973) 881-2470.

The most common citations that the county issues are for violations of the Passaic County Emergency Response and Cost Recovery Ordinance.

Section IV(a)- The discharge of hazardous substances is prohibited.  

Section V(a)- Any person responsible for a discharge shall immediately Notify the NJDEP hotline at 1-877-WARNDEP.  

Section VI(a)- Any person responsible for the discharge of a hazardous Substance shall be liable for all Emergency Response Action costs.