In implementation of Council Directive 96/82/EC, the present Legislative Decree lays down provisions aimed at the prevention of major-accidents hazards involving certain dangerous substances and at the reduction of harmful effects on human beings and the environment. Chapter I of the Legislative Decree establishes general principles in this field. Firstly, article 2 specifies the establishments to which these provisions shall apply. Secondly, article 4 indicates those establishments and substances which do not fall within the application scope of the Decree. Chapter II is devoted to the duties of operators of establishments where major accidents may occur (general obligations, notification, prevention policy, safety report, internal emergency plan, etc.). Chapter III defines the institutional framework relevant to this field by determining the competences which shall pertain to the Ministry of the Environment (arts. 15 and 16), to the Regions (art. 18) and to the relevant technical organisms (art. 17). Chapter IV deals with exchange of information and measures to be implemented when a major-accident occurs. Chapter V lays down the penalties to be applied in case of infringement. Seven Annexes are attached.