Rhode Island § 23-24-11 - Hazardous Substances

§ 23-24-11. Examinations and investigations.

(a) The consumer protection unit is authorized to conduct examinations, inspections, and investigations for the purposes of this chapter through its officers and employees or through any health officer or employee of the state duly commissioned by the consumer protection unit as an officer of the consumer protection unit.

(b) For purposes of enforcement of this chapter, officers or employees duly designated by the consumer protection unit, upon presenting appropriate credentials and a written notice to the owner, operator, or agent in charge, are authorized:

(1) To enter, at reasonable times, any factory, warehouse, or establishment in which the hazardous substances are manufactured, processed, packed, or held for introduction into intrastate commerce or are held after that introduction or to enter any vehicle being used to transport or hold the hazardous substances in intrastate commerce;

(2) To inspect, at reasonable times and within reasonable limits and in a reasonable manner, the factory, warehouse, establishment, or vehicle, and all pertinent equipment, finished and unfinished materials, and labeling; and

(3)(i) To obtain samples of the materials or packages, or of the labeling.

(ii) A separate notice shall be given for each inspection, but a notice shall not be required for each entry made during the period covered by the inspection. Each inspection shall be commenced and completed with reasonable promptness.

(c) If the officer or employee obtains any sample, prior to leaving the premises, he or she shall give to the owner, operator, or agent in charge a receipt describing the samples obtained. If an analysis is made of that sample, a copy of the results of the analysis shall be furnished promptly to the owner, operator, or agent in charge.