The toxics management program addresses four key areas that impact the Army: asbestos, lead and lead-based paint, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). 
 

Asbestos: The program ensures the safe handling and removal of asbestos-containing materials in older buildings. It follows strict procedures to prevent airborne exposure, which protects the health of personnel and nearby communities.

Lead and Lead-Based Paint: Many older Army facilities still have lead-based paint, posing a risk, especially to children and pregnant women. The program conducts regular inspections, risk assessments, and abatement procedures to minimize exposure. It also provides training for the safe handling and disposal of lead-containing materials.

Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs): PCBs are harmful pollutants found in some electrical equipment. The program identifies and manages PCB-containing equipment safely, ensuring proper disposal and decontamination. This reduces health risks and environmental impact.

To protect the public and the environment from these toxic substances, the Army has implemented management plans, which include:

- Complying with legally applicable and appropriate federal, state, and local regulations on asbestos, lead, and PCBs
- Eliminating the use of potentially dangerous substances, such as lead-based paints containing above .06 percent lead by weight
- Recognizing potentially harmful situations in renovation and/or demolition projects
- Establishing contacts for health-related and exposure issues
- Certifying all persons performing activities that involve these substances
- Properly disposing of waste containing any potentially harmful substance
- Budgeting resources to identify, manage and control exposure to various substances
- Assessing exposure and risk of each location containing a toxic substance
- Maintaining and updating records of assessments

 

USAEC's role includes assisting the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-9 by:

- Reviewing all Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) rulemakings
- Preparing Army impact analyses and comments on potential rulemakings
- Developing tools to assist installations in complying with TSCA requirements
- Working with the Office of the Director of Environmental Programs (ODEP) and the U.S. Army Installation Management Command (IMCOM) to develop compliance strategies
- Tracking the Army's progress on meeting DoD and Army environmental goals
- Supporting installations when requested
- Maintaining contact with the EPA to stay abreast of current and future initiatives
- Along with DCS, G-9, representing the Army on DoD committees
 

TSCA sets regulations to control the development, commerce, testing, and use of certain potentially hazardous chemicals. Under TSCA, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has the authority to regulate the entire life cycle of a chemical, from manufacture to disposal.

- EPA's Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention
- EPA's Toxic Substances Control Act Web site
- EPA 40 CFR Subchapter R - Toxic Substances Control Act (Parts 700-789 and 790-799)
- Guidance on toxics management can be found in Chapter 9 of Army Regulation 200-1, Environmental Protection and Enhancement