As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings
indicated:
LABORATORY
A room or building equipped for experimental study in a science.
MERCURY-CONTAINING THERMOSTAT
An instrument containing mercury that is used to control room temperature
in a residential dwelling or commercial structure.
PERSON
Any natural person, corporation, unincorporated association, firm,
partnership, joint venture, joint-stock association or other entity or business
organization of any kind, including any master plumber or journey-level plumber
licensed or certified to engage in the business of plumbing pursuant to the
laws of Rockland County.
This chapter shall apply to all actions occurring on or after the effective
date of this chapter.
Any person who violates the provisions of this chapter shall be subject
to the imposition of a civil penalty by the Rockland County Department of
Health not exceeding $200 for each single violation. No civil penalty shall
be imposed by the Rockland County Department of Health as provided for herein
unless the alleged violator has received notice of the charge against him
or her and has had an opportunity to be heard pursuant to the normal procedures
of the Rockland County Department of Health. Prior to the imposition of a
civil penalty on an alleged violator, the Rockland County Department of Health
shall make a good-faith effort to issue a warning to the alleged violator
and shall make a good-faith effort to educate the alleged violator about the
provisions of this chapter.
The Rockland County Department of Health is requested, within 180 days
of the adoption of this chapter, to present to the Rockland County legislature
and to the Rockland County Executive a plan for public education concerning
the operation and administration of this chapter, the nature and effects of
mercury, and what to do in the event of a mercury leak or spill. In addition,
the Rockland County Department of Health is requested, within 180 days of
the adoption of this chapter, to present to the Rockland County Legislature
and to the Rockland County Executive a plan for public education directed
at the medical and scientific communities concerning the use of mercury gauges
or mercury-containing manometers for purposes relating to the rendering of
medical treatment or care and the use of mercury gauges or mercury-containing
manometers for purposes relating to scientific use in a laboratory.
This chapter shall become effective April 30, 2003.