Any person who has knowledge of an unauthorized release of a hazardous substance shall notify the Chief immediately. A written report shall be submitted by the owner, operator, or permittee within ten days after the escape of a hazardous substance from a primary container when the unauthorized release:
1. Has occurred or has the potential to enter groundwater.
2. Could endanger life, property, or the environment.
3. Is contained by secondary containment.
The written report shall provide information to the Department relating to the ability of the permittee to contain and dispose of the hazardous substance, the estimated time it will take to achieve this, and the degree of hazard created. The Chief may verify that the hazardous substance is being contained and appropriately disposed of. If at any time it is determined that the permittee is not adequately containing and disposing of such hazardous substance, the Chief shall have the power and authority to initiate and direct an emergency response in order to protect the public safety, health and welfare, public and private property, wildlife, marine fisheries, wet lands or ocean resources, or natural environment. The permittee shall be liable for reimbursement to the Department for all emergency response costs incurred.