New Permit Requires Update To SWPPP For South Dakota Sites

Effective April 1, 2018, South Dakota's General Permit for Stormwater Discharges Associated with Construction Activities was reissued. New applications for permits must be submitted at least 15 days prior to the project start date on the new forms beginning May 1, 2018. The 2018 South Dakota Legislature also passed Senate Bill 25 which authorized new stormwater permit fees. Effective July 1, 2018, new construction Notice of Intents (NOIs) must include the new fee.

SWPPP and Solid Waste Controls At Large Residential Construction Project

The new stormwater discharge permit included new requirements for a stormwater pollution prevention plan, or SWPPP. Existing Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans need to be updated by October 1, 2018.For projects that discharge stormwater to a water body listed as impaired under section 303(d) of the Federal Clean Water Act due to sediment, suspended solids, or turbidity, the SWPPP must identify the water body and impairment and must describe and conform to any Wasteload Allocation (WLA) for the water body.

Caltha LLP | Your Stormwater Permit, SWPPP 

and Spill Plan Partner

Who Needs To Certify SWPPP Plan? What Certifications Are Needed?

Under State and EPA stormwater permitting rules, a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) may need to be certified. This signed 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);
• Annual Site Compliance Certifications;
• Endangered Species Certifications;
• Historic Places Certification,
• Environmental Professional Certification (in Indiana)
• Certified Stormwater Operator Certification (in Michigan)
• Others.

Rail Car Loading Area Covered In SWPPP Inspection

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."

 
Non-Stormwater Discharge At Industrial Facility

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.

 For more information on Caltha LLP SWPPP services, go to the Environmental Health & Safety Plan | Spill Plan Information Request Form.

 

Caltha LLP | Your Stormwater Permit, SWPPP 

and Spill Plan Partner

Most Common Problems With Secondary Containment

Common Problems With Secondary Containment

Missing Secondary Containment

Fuel Tank Without Containment Or Proper Support


Fuel Loading Area Without Secondary Containment


Leaking Used Oil Storage AST Observed During
Facility Inspection

Inadequate Volume Containment

Environmental Inspection Finds Leaking Tanks
And Pumps In Refueling Area

Wrong Material

Bulk Fuel Storage With Hay Bale
Secondary Containment

Missing or Inadequate Maintenance

Cracked Secondary Containment Wall Identified
During SPCC Inspection


Damaged Oil Storage Containment


Leaking Waste Solvent Hazardous Waste Tank

 

Caltha LLP | Your Stormwater Permit, 

SWPPP and Spill Plan Partner

Construction SWPPP And Contractor SWPPP Training, Spill Training

Caltha LLP Project Summary

Project: Construction Stormwater Permitting, SWPPP & Contractor Training 
Client: National Home Builder
Location(s): Minnesota

Key Elements: Stormwater permitting, SWPPP, Inspection training, Spill Control Plan

Overview: Caltha LLP was retained by a national home builder/developer to provide technical services required for a 8-ac single family home development. Caltha staff prepared the project stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWPPP), erosion control plan, spill control plan and then completed the permit application materials. Once permitted, Caltha staff provided SWPPP training to all site inspectors and subcontractors.


 
SWPPP and SWPPP Training For Residential Site Construction

For more information on Caltha LLP construction stormwater services, go to the Caltha Storm water Permitting and Compliance Page

   

Caltha LLP | Your Stormwater Permit, SWPPP 

and Spill Plan Partner

Do Electric Transformers Need To Be In SWPPP and SPCC Plan?

Electric transformers are found at almost every larger commercial, institutional and industrial facility. Sometimes this equipment is owned by the facility owner and sometimes by the power company. For some facilities, it is not always clearly understood who owns and is responsible for transformers.

Can Electric Transformers Leak Oil?

Yes, electric transformers can leak oil, but only if they actually contain oil.

How Can I Tell If Electric Transformer Contains Oil?

For newer transformers, the quantity of oil in the unit is usually found on the label. For older equipment, this information may not be on the label, or the label may have been removed or is illegible. In this case, a visual inspection of the equipment by a knowledgeable person can usually determine if it contains oil or not.     Not sure?   Send Caltha a photo and we may be able to determine this - send to info@calthacompany.com

Who Is Responsible To Clean Up Leaks From Transformers?

This will depend on State laws. In general, the Owner of the equipment is responsible. However, for a property owner whose property has been impacted by a leaking transformer, the issue could affect the value of the property and they may voluntarily elect to clean up leaks.

What Are The Environmental Risks For Electric Transformers?

A risk for oil spills exists for any oil-filled transformer. Older transformers commonly contained PCB oils. Use of PCB oils has been phased out and newer equipment is often labeled "No PBC"; however older electric transformers could still contain PCBs which makes clean up more involved.

Leaks can occur over long periods and accumulate slowly. The other risk is an emergency spill caused by a fire or the transformer being damaged by vehicles, etc. These risks are minimized by ensuring equipment is included in pollution prevention plans and spill plans (such as SWPPP, SPCC Plan or other spill plans) and is regularly inspected and maintained.

Typical Leaking Electric Transformer

SWPPP Plan, SPCC Plan, RCRA Plan In Pensacola, Tallahassee Area

Caltha LLP provides expert stormwater compliance services to clients on northwest Florida and south Alabama, including areas surrounding:

• Pensacola, Florida
• Tallahassee, Florida
• Mobile Alabama

Caltha prepares stormwater pollution prevention plans (SWPPP), spill prevention plans, SPCC plans, RCRA contingency plan an other related plans. Caltha also provides a full range of environmental and safety training services.
To request a quote for a SWPPP, SPCC or other plan, click here and complete the EH&S Plan Quote Request Form.

Warehousing and Logistics Facilities Needed Storm Water Permit And SWPPP

Caltha LLP Project Summary

Project: Industrial Storm Water Permitting & Compliance
Client: International Retailer
Location(s): California, Washington, Utah, Georgia, Florida, Virginia, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Massachusetts, New York, Kansas, Virginia, Louisiana, Texas, Tennessee, Minnesota, Illinois, Indiana, South Carolina, Colorado, Nevada, New Jersey, Connecticut, Missouri

Key Elements: SWPPP preparation, Stormwater monitoring, Compliance plan, Permit application

Overview: Caltha LLP has provided consulting services to this international retailer at multiple logistics and warehousing locations to comply with individual State industrial stormwater rules. Services included preparing facility stormwater pollution prevention plans, preparation of State or EPA application forms (Notice of Intent), preparation of site-specific inspection checklists to comply with individual State inspection requirements, preparation of site-specific stormwater monitoring and benchmark monitoring plans to meet State requirements applicable to this industrial sector. Caltha then provided ad hoc technical support to facilities to address questions during roll-out of the compliance programs.

Leaking Hydraulic System On Trash Compactor 

Contaminates Stormwater Discharge

For more information on Caltha LLP SWPPP services, go to the Environmental Health & Safety Plan | Spill Plan Information Request Form.

New Kansas Industrial Discharge Permit

The Kansas General Permit for Stormwater Runoff Associated with Industrial Activities became effective on November 1, 2016. The reissued permit and forms contain new and additional requirements.


Owners or operators of new or existing unpermitted facilities subject to regulation of stormwater runoff must complete the new Notice of Intent (NOI) form to apply for and obtain coverage under the industrial stormwater general permit S-ISWA-1611-1.
Facilities that currently have industrial stormwater discharge coverage under the previous Kansas General Permit do not need to submit a new NOI, but need to comply with the requirements of the new general permit. Existing permitted facilities that wish to decline coverage under the new permit must submit an application for coverage under an individual permit by February 1, 2017 and must continue to comply with the conditions of the previous general permit until the individual permit is issued.


The principal requirement of the Kansas General Permit for Stormwater Runoff from Industrial Activity has remained the same - for the owner to develop, implement and maintain a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). Caltha LLP has prepared a SWPPP Template to align with the 2016 Kansas permit requirements.


For more information go to Caltha Stormwater Services

SWPPP and Permit Compliance Training For Revised WDNR Tier 2 Permit

Caltha LLP Project Summary

Project: SWPPP and Permit Compliance Documentation To Meet Tier 2 Permit
Client: Concrete manufacturer
Location(s): Wisconsin

Key Elements: Facility SWPPP, stormwater inspection, visual stormwater monitoring

Overview: Caltha LLP was retained by this regional concrete manufacturer to conduct compliance reviews and prepare updated SWPPPs for two of its facilities located in Wisconsin. Both sites were covered under the WDNR Tier 2 General Permit for discharge of industrial stormwater. Caltha staff conducted a site visit and met with plant personnel to determine what updates were required to the existing facility SWPPP to meet the newly revised WDNR permit. A revised SWPPP was issued to each location which included updates to quarterly monitoring procedures, spill prevention measures, routine employee training and monthly housekeeping inspections.


For more information on Caltha LLP SWPPP services, go to the Environmental Health & Safety Plan | Spill Plan Information Request Form.

Compliance With State Multi-sector Industrial General Permit | Seminar Module

The link below provides training slides from a training module on basic compliance strategies to address general permit requirements. The emphasis of the training module is to provide photograph examples of key areas which should be concerned in developing a site-specific SWPPP.

Presentation Slides: Complying with State Industrial Storm Water 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

Revised Wisconsin DNR Tier 2 Industrial Permit

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) has release the revised Tier 2 permit under Chapter NR 216, Subchapter II — Industrial Storm Water Discharge Permits.  The revised permit became effective on June 1, 2016 and expires on May 31, 2021.




Caltha LLP has been providing technical services to facilities located in Wisconsin to bring them into compliance with the revised permit. Click here to review an example project to prepare a revised SWPPP and permit compliance documentation to meet Tier 2 permit


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

Guidance and Rules For Salt Storage in Ohio

Ohio EPA has released a guidance document on the elements of salt storage that are relevant to preventing contamination include siting, design, and operation. The document provides guidance on salt storage practices to prevent the contamination of ground water and surface water. “Salt”, as used here, includes solids such as the popular sodium chloride (NaCl), as well as potassium chloride (KCl), calcium chloride (CaCl2), and magnesium chloride (MgCl2). It also includes mixtures of the same substances with abrasives such as sand, cinder, slag, etc.

Summary of Regulatory Requirements Affecting Salt Storage Operations in Ohio


Caltha LLP provides expert consulting services to public and private sector clients in Ohio and 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

Storm Water Plan Certification - What is Certified? Who Must Sign?

Under State and EPA stormwater permitting rules, a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) may need to be certified. This signed 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.


Caltha LLP provides expert consulting services to public and private sector clients nationwide to address Stormwater Permitting and 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

Georgia Industrial Stormwater SWPPP Template and Compliance Plan

The Georgia Environmental Protection Division(EPD) has finalized a revised General Permit for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Industrial Activity (Multi-Sector General Permit, or MSGP). This permit replaces the previous Georgia general permit, which had expired in July 2011. The Georgia general permit is modeled after the US EPA MSGP and defines sector specific requirements for each of 29 different industrial sectors. For many facilities subject to the previous general permit, the revised MSGP will require a significant revision to the facility stormwater pollution prevention plan, or SWPPP. Facilities must submit a new NOI for permit coverage by June 30, 2012, including certification that the operation is in compliance with new requirements.

Read a Summary of the Revised Georgia Industrial Permit Requirements
To reduce the level of effort required for facilities to come into compliance with new permit requirements, Caltha LLP has prepared a SWPPP template based on Georgia permit requirements, including Georgia specific quarterly inspection checklist, quarterly visual assessment checklist, quarterly benchmark monitoring checklist, and an annual comprehensive site inspection checklist. Caltha has also prepared a Georgia Stormwater Permit Compliance Plan to assist permitted facilities in organizing and planning new compliance requirements under the EPD general permit.

For more information on Caltha LLP SWPPP services, go to the Environmental Health & Safety Plan | Spill Plan Information Request Form.

Louisiana SWPPP Template and Storm Water General Permit Compliance Plan

The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has finalized a revised General Permit for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Industrial Activity (Multi-Sector General Permit, or MSGP). This permit replaced the previous Louisiana general permit, which had expired. The Louisiana general permit is modeled after the US EPA MSGP and defines sector specific requirements for each of 29 different industrial sectors. For most facilities subject to the existing general permit, the revised MSGP will require a significant revision to the facility stormwater pollution prevention plan, or SWPPP.

To reduce the level of effort required for facilities to come into compliance with new permit requirements, Caltha LLP has prepared a SWPPP template based on Louisiana permit requirements, including Louisiana specific quarterly inspection checklist, quarterly visual assessment checklist, quarterly benchmark monitoring checklist, and an annual comprehensive site inspection checklist. Caltha has also prepared a Louisiana Stormwater Permit Compliance Plan to assist permitted facilities in organizing and planning new compliance requirements under the LDEQ general permit.

For more information on Caltha LLP SWPPP services, go to the Environmental Health & Safety Plan | Spill Plan Information Request Form.

Caltha LLP provides expert consulting services to public and private sector clients in Louisiana and 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

Ohio SWPPP Template, Inspection Checklists and Compliance Plan

The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA) has proposed a revised General Permit for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Industrial Activity (Multi-Sector General Permit, or MSGP. This permit will replace the existing Ohio general permit, which expires on May 31, 2011. The draft Ohio general permit is modeled after the US EPA MSGP and defines sector specific requirements for each of 29 different industrial sectors. For most facilities subject to the existing general permit, the revised MSGP will require a significant revision to the facility stormwater pollution prevention plan, or SWPPP.


[read a Regualtory Briefing on the revised Ohio MSGP]


To reduce the level of effort required for facilities to come into compliance with new permit requirements, Caltha LLP has prepared a SWPPP template based on Ohio permit requirements, including Ohio specific quarterly inspection checklist, quarterly visual assessment checklist, quarterly benchmark monitoring checklist, and an annual comprehensive site inspection checklist. Caltha has also prepared a Ohio Stormwater Permit Compliance Plan to assist permitted facilities in organizing and planning new compliance requirements under the OEPA general permit.


For further information on Caltha's Ohio SWPPP Templates (or other State SWPPP templates), email: info@calthacompany.com



Caltha LLP provides expert consulting services to public and private sector clients in Ohio and 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

Louisana DEQ Grant To Implement Storm Water Pollution Prevention Programs

The State of Louisiana will receive a grant of $2,262,000 to address sources of storm water pollution in the state. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) awarded the grant to the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ) to prevent storm water runoff or rainfall water pollution. The project will enable Louisiana to meet the goals of the Clean Water Act by implementing the Nonpoint Source Management Plan.

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

Qualified SWPPP Developer & Qualified SWPPP Practitioner Requirements Under Draft California Permit

UPDATE: On July 16, 2012, an updated draft was released. Click here for a summary of the revised draft ICP

On January 28, 2011, the California State Water Resources Control Board released its draft General Permit for stormwater discharges associated with industrial activities. The draft NPDES permit proposes several changes from the existing California General Permit.

One of the important changes will be especially significant for facilities that have in the past prepared their own stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWPPP). Under the proposed permit, all dischargers will need to appoint a Qualified SWPPP Developer (QSD) to prepare, write, and make any revisions to the SWPPP, and appoint a Qualified SWPPP Practitioner (QSP) to help implement the SWPPP.

The minimum requirements to become a certified Qualified SWPPP Developer includes have one of the following registrations for certifications, and appropriate experience, as required for:

• California registered professional civil engineer;
• California registered professional geologist or engineering geologist;
• California registered landscape architect;
• Professional hydrologist registered through the American Institute of Hydrology;

In addition, the QSD must successfully complete the State Water Board-sponsored or approved QSD training course within one year after the effective date of this General Permit.

Unless a facility has a registered engineer, geologist, landscape artitict, or professional hydrologist on staff, facilities subject to the permit will need to contract outside professional services to prepare, certify and update the SWPPP.

The minimum requirement to become a certified Qualified SWPPP Practitioner is to successfully complete the State Water Board-sponsored or approved QSP training course within one year from the effective date of the General Permit.
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

Difference Between SPCC SWPPP SWP3 Plans

What is the Difference Between a SPCC Plan and a SWPPP Plan?
Some municipal and industrial sites may be required to prepare and implement either a SPCC Plan, a SWPPP Plan, or both. SPCC Plans and SWPPP Plans are different documents, requiring different types of information, and are required under different regulatory programs.


SPCC Plans. SPCC Plans are required under the federal Oil Pollution Control Act, and the requirements are specified in 40 CFR 112 ("SPCC Rule"). In order to determine if SPCC Rules apply to an individual site, an inventory of oil and fat containing vessels, which may include oil-filled equipment, must be made. The results are compared to the SPCC threshold. If the site exceeds the threshold, a SPCC Plan needs to be prepared and the site needs to comply with other aspects of the SPCC Rule.


SWPPP Plans. Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans ("SWPPP Plans", or "SWP3 Plan") are required by the federal Clean Water Act, specifically under requirements for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). The requirement to prepare and implement a SWPPP, and the contents of the SWPPP, will be defined in an NPDES permit. Many industrial, municipal and construction sites are required to obtain an NPDES permit to discharge stormwater, and are therefore required to have a SWPPP.

The SWPPP and SPCC Plan can be related; most SWPPPs need to incorporate procedures for spill prevention and response. Sites that are required to have a SPCC Plan can use that plan to satisfy this one requirement, as long as the oils and fats addressed in the SPCC Plan are the only materials that need to be addressed in the SWPPP.  In summary, sites could need either a SPCC Plan, a SWPPP, or both.

For more information on Caltha LLP SWPPP services, go to the Environmental Health & Safety Plan | Spill Plan Information Request Form.

Caltha LLP provides expert consulting services to public and private sector clients nationwide to address preparation of SPCC Plans and 40 CFR 112 Compliance Programs, preparation of Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPP), and SPCC Training and SWPPP Training. For further information contact Caltha LLP at
info@calthacompany.com

MPCA Permit SWPPP Template - Example SWPPP - Sample SWP3

Caltha LLP has prepared a SWPPP Template to meet the new requirements of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) Multisector Industrial stormwater permit.

This basic framework of the MPCA permit SWPPP template was developed by Caltha over several years working in States with similar multisector requirements and across a broad range of industrial sectors. It is particularly useful in quickly and cost effectively developing a site specific Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan that is easy to update and maintain in the future.

Caltha has developed and maintains a library of individual State SWPPP Templates designed to meet the unique requirements of each State stormwater permit.

The MPCA permit SWPPP Template is now available to Caltha's clients who are subject to the new Minnesota industrial stormwater rules.
Also available from Caltha LLP are:

• Template for MPCA Benchmark Monitoring Plan
• Template for Minnesota permit Stormwater Compliance Plan
• Template for SPCC Plan & self-certified SPCC Template Plan

Upcoming Stormwater SWP3 Training in Minnesota:
May 19 - Plymouth, MN
May 27 - Mankato, MN
June 3 - Moorhead, MN


For more information on Caltha LLP SWPPP services, go to the Environmental Health & Safety Plan | Spill Plan Information Request Form.