ABSTRACT
This chapter provides examples of the technical assistance program component of various existing toxic chemical use reduction programs. By providing technical assistance to companies to implement cost-effective technologies for reducing or replacing toxic chemicals, toxic chemical use reduction can be accomplished faster and more efficiently than if individual companies were required to do it on their own. The Office of Innovation and Assistance offers free compliance, technical, and pollution prevention (P2) assistance through three main programs: P2 Program, Small Business Technical Assistance Program, and the Toxics and Hazardous Waste Reduction Program. Assistance is targeted to industrial facilities that do not have their own engineering staff available. The Washington Department of Ecology worked with the Environmental Protection Agency and Washington Manufacturing Services to provide lean environmental assistance and training to facilities in Washington State. The role of the Department of Ecology is to identify environmental wastes and risks and P2 opportunities and provide regulatory assistance.
