Wilson understands that a sound pollution prevention
approach is one of the most-effective means of controlling the discharge of
pollutants in a storm water runoff from industrial facilities into surface
waters.
Wilson’s storm water pollution prevention plans generally
contain various best management practices (BMPs), which may be general,
industry-specific, or site-specific.The
major objectives of these plans are:
·To identify sources of pollution potentially affecting the quality
of storm water discharges associated with industrial activity from the facility;
·To describe and ensure implementation of practices to minimize and
control pollutants in storm water discharges associated with industrial activity
from the facility and to ensure compliance with the terms and conditions of the
general permit.
The general permits prescribe a four-step process for
meeting these objectives:
·Formation of a team of qualified plant personnel who will be
responsible for preparing the plan and assisting the plant manager in its
implementation;
·Assessment of potential storm water pollution sources;
·Selection and implementation of appropriate management practices
and control methods; and
·Periodic evaluation of the ability of the plan to prevent storm
water pollution and comply with the terms and conditions of the permit.
How does an industrial facility Operator determine whether it needs to
obtain an NPDES Storm Water Permit?
Step 1. Determine whether the facility or site discharges storm water
to a separate storm sewer system (MS4) or to a stream, lake or other waters of
the waters of the United States (check EPA definition, it covers almost everything)
If it discharges to one or both, proceed to Step 2, otherwise no permit is
needed.
Step 2. Determine if the facility's industrial activities are listed
among the eleven Categories of Industrial Activities (follow link below to find
your category) , as defined by the federal regulations. If its activities
are listed, proceed to Step 3, otherwise no permit is needed.
Step 3. Determine if the listed facility or site may qualify for an
exemption or waiver under the federal regulations.
No Exposure. Facilities identified as "light industry"
(Category (xi)) may be eligible to claim a condition of "no
exposure" and be exempted from permitting. No exposure basically
means that everything including storage of equipment is indoors.
Construction activities are not included.
ISTEA Moratorium. Is for municipalities with populations less
than 100,000 (with some exceptions).
Wilson Environmental has standard templates for writing
SWPPPs and can help you come into compliance if you need a storm water
permit.
If your facility also needs an SPCC
Plan, Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasures Plan, the information in
this should overlap with your SWPPP.
