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Sediment and chemical pollutants from construction sites pose a major threat to the environment. If a construction site covers an area of one acre or more then the operators or owners are required by law to apply for and obtain permit coverage under the National Pollutant Discharge Eliminations System (BPDES). A violation of the construction general permit regulations can result in civil or criminal penalties and imprisonment too.

Hence the need for a ‘Certified Compliance Inspector of Stormwater’ for stormwater management is mandatory for every construction site requiring construction general permit coverage. Here are some reasons why online stormwater training is essential for companies involved in construction business:

• Permits and Regulations – An online stormwater certification course helps an individual become familiar with the latest EPA and state regulations regarding stormwater management. These laws vary from state to state. Each Construction general permit issued to a state or the federal government expires five (5) years after it is issued. One should also keep a check on any changes in the existing laws and take refresher courses accordingly.

• Environmental Risks – Discharge of sediment or other pollutants in stormwater is hazardous for the environment and can cause long term damage if the pollutants get into the water cycle. All waste material including paper, wood, and concrete must be disposed of correctly. All petroleum and hazardous materials stored on the site must be properly contained and inspected on a regular basis. Spills are to be cleaned and disposed of according to the local laws and reported to all appropriate agencies. If the materials are not properly managed and discharge off site into a waterway, violations could be written including fines or stop work orders issued and the site shut down until it comes into regulatory compliance with the construction general permit.

• Certifications – A CCIS (Certified Compliance Inspector of Stormwater) or CPSWPPP (Certified Preparer of Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plans) is a qualified personnel who can inspect a construction site for an effective storm water management system.

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Source by Laurie Demers