Thursday, November 27, 2008

SWPPP Certifications - What Is Certified and Who Needs to Sign?

Under State and EPA stormwater permitting rules, a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) may need to be certified. This SWPPP Certification is in addition to other types of certifications that may be required. The types of certifications will vary depending on the State and type of permit; in addition to SWPPP Certification, some other types of certifications might include:

  • Non-stormwater Discharge Certification,
  • No-exposure Monitoring Exemption Certification;
  • Heavy Metal No-exposure Certification (in Texas);
  • Site Compliance Certifications;
  • Endangered Species Certifications;
  • Historic Places Certification
  • Others.


SWPPP Certification – What is Being Certified?
In most cases, the SWPPP Certification statement indicates that the SWPPP has been 1) prepared; 2) implemented and that 3) the SWPPP conforms to the requirements of the discharge permit. The SWPPP Certification generally includes a statement that the information documented is correct. The exact wording and scope of the certification statement will vary from State-to-State, but here is an example:

"I certify under penalty of law that this document and all attachments were prepared under my direction or supervision in accordance with a system designed to ensure that qualified personnel properly gather and evaluate the information submitted. Based on my inquiry of the person or persons who manage the system, or those persons directly responsible for gathering the information, the information submitted is to the best of my knowledge and belief, true, accurate, and complete. I am aware that there are significant penalties for submitting false information, including the possibility of fine and imprisonment for knowing violations."


Who needs to certify the SWPPP?
In some States (for example, Michigan, Indiana, Connecticut and others), the SWPPP needs to be signed by a certified or qualified environmental professional.

In most States, the SWPPP also needs to be signed by a Responsible Company Officer, or his/her duly authorized representative. State or EPA rules will determine who can sign the SWPPP. This SWPPP Certification can be in addition to any certifications needed by a qualified environmental professional.

Click here for more information on State-specific SWPPP Templates.


For further information contact Caltha LLP at
info@calthacompany.com
or
Caltha LLP Website

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