Textile Mills, Apparel, and Other Fabric Products Sector - SWPPP - Stormwater Permit Proposed Requirements

On July 6, 2009, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency released its proposed multisector industrial stormwater discharge general permit. This permit, once promulgated, will replace the existing industrial stormwater permit, which expired in October of 2002.

[[Read an overall summary of the proposed MPCA Industrial Stormwater Permit]]

Some key changes in the July 6, 2009 proposed permit are the additional details for 29 different sector specific requirements. The requirements described below are proposed for the Textile Mills, Apparel, and Other Fabric Products Sector (Sector V). Sector V facilities are engaged in textile mill product preparation, the manufacture of apparel, fabrics, carpets and rugs, and leather products; dyeing and finishing of fibers, yarn fabrics, and knit. These requirements are in addition to permit requirements that apply to all sectors.

Inspections:
In addition to routine inspection requirements, the operation must conduct two of the monthly inspections during runoff events. One of the inspections must be performed during a snow melt runoff event. Each inspection must include a visual assessment of the runoff to identify any visible sheens or films that indicate the presence of oil or grease in the discharge.

Preventive Maintenance:
The site SWPPP must include use of spill and overflow protection; and covering or enclosing areas where the transfer of materials occurs. The SWPPP must also address the replacement or repair of leaking connections, valves, transfer lines, and pipes that carry chemicals, dyes, or wastewater.

Potential Pollutant Sources:
The site SWPPP must also describe potential pollutant sources including numerous specific listed processes and activities specific to this sector.


Stormwater Monitoring Benchmarks:
All facilities are required to conduct visual and chemical (benchmark) monitoring. The benchmark concentrations or values are:

TSS 100 mg/L

[Read more about how benchmarks are used under the proposed MPCA industrial permit]
[Read more about what a 100 mg/L benchmark for TSS relates to]

Caltha LLP is conducting seminars in several cities across Minnesota to provide an overview of what the proposed MPCA permit requirements are and potential impacts on affected facilities. For more information, go to:
MPCA Proposed Industrial Stormwater Requirements Seminar

Looking for other sector information? Click here for a link to all sector requirements

Caltha LLP provides expert consulting services to public and private sector clients nationwide to address Stormwater Permitting & Regulatory Support, Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPP), Stormwater Monitoring and Stormwater Training.

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