SWPPP or Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan outlines the methods to minimize the pollution of storm water systems. Different types of pollutants are released during the construction projects and related activities. The sediments and pollutants released through these activities end up in the lakes, rivers, flood control facilities and coastal waters. The SWPPP document details how contractors can control and manage their activities to prevent the release of pollutants in these water bodies. They have to perform SWPPP inspections services to comply with these regulations.
Any construction project that is going to affect more than one acre of land falls under this regulation. SWPPP inspections may be needed even for projects that affect smaller size areas. The purpose of this inspection is to prevent the release of pollutants in the storm water systems. The inspection helps identify the root cause of the problem. It is used to devise and implement solutions. SWPPP inspectors offer valuable suggestions and strategies to comply with both state and federal storm water regulations.
The goal of these regulations is to minimize the sediment and run off pollutants from construction activities entering the storm water channels. Companies and organizations that do not comply with the SWPPP regulations can be penalized. The fine can be as high as $37,000 per day. In extreme cases, the violation of these regulations can result in imprisonment. Most contractors follow all construction and building regulations. At the same time, it does not exonerate the property owner from the responsibility of complying with SWPPP.
SWPPP inspections services are needed to minimize erosion and non-storm water discharges. This service plan includes site inspection, BMP maintenance, laboratory sampling and laboratory analysis services. The runoff pollutants entering the storm water systems can be limited and prevented by using controlling devices. Some of these devices are temporary while others are permanent systems. It all depends on the type of activity as well as what type and amount of pollutants will be generated during the construction process.
It is important to know that SWPPP inspections can be performed only by the qualified SWPPP practitioners. The reports are prepared only by the qualified SWPPP developers. These reports help comply with the environmental laws and local building codes. These inspection services are offered to the developers, general contractors, homebuilders, civil engineers, transport departments, municipalities and other subcontractors. The services offered by the SWPPP inspectors are not limited to performing the inspection and preparing the inspection reports. They also offer consultancy and training services to the project contractors and engineers. They help with the management of onsite and online documentation related to this process. Now cloud based online solutions are available for SWPPP management and compliance.