US Training Module Layout

Module 1: EPA Rules and Regulations

The purpose of this module is to ensure inspectors understand EPA and the Clean Water Act (CWA) requirements and how they are applicable to inspections. Participants will evaluate EPA’s 2022 construction general permit as it applies to the duties of inspectors. Participants will also evaluate SWPPP details so that participants understand what they must do to meet federal compliance criteria.

Items for this module will include (but not limited to):

  • Clean Water Act
  • NPDES 2022 General Permit:
  • Permittee and Designer Obligations and Requirements
  • Inspector Obligations and Requirements
  • Corrective Action Requirements
  • Training Requirements

Module 2: Background of an Inspector

In this module, participants will learn the importance of what is recommended for an inspector’s background and how this will help them keep a site in compliance with EPA requirements. In addition, participants will see how assessing past experiences will improve the inspection process.

Items for this Module will include (but not limited to):

  • Definitions: Sediment vs. Erosion
  • Topographic Assessments: Reading a map
  • Hydrology: Hydrographs and sedigraphs
  • Polymers: Anionic vs. cationic
  • Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan Requirements
  • Classroom Example SWPPP and S&EC Drawings
  • Ethics: CISEC’s Code

Module 3: BMPs:

This module will provide the necessary tools for inspecting BMPs found on land development, vertical/big box construction, and linear projects. Participants will learn about inspecting installed sediment and erosion control measures, whether the BMPs are functioning in a correct manner, and assess BMP limitations. In addition, information will be provided on inspecting storage areas where potential pollution problems may occur and assessing whether new BMPs need to be added or whether existing structures can be removed.

Items for this Module will include (but not limited to):

  • Writing Inspection and Corrective Action Reports
  • Inspecting Commonly Found BMPs on Construction Sites:
  • Barriers
  • Sediment Containment Systems
  • Erosion Control BMPs
  • Inspecting Other Important BMPs:
  • Stabilized Construction Entrances
  • Polymer Systems
  • Wind Erosion BMPs
  • Concrete Washouts
  • Hazardous Waste Sites

Module 4: Conducting Construction Site Inspections

This module covers the basic duties of an inspector by conducting a “virtual” tour of a construction site. Participants will reinforce their role and responsibilities as inspectors to meet EPA Phase I and Phase II requirements. The module will include “hands‐on” exercises on documenting, communicating, reading SWPPPs and S&EC plans, writing reports, interacting with fellow participants, and assessing what to look for on a construction site.

Items for this Module will include (but not limited to):

  • Inspection Requirements
  • Inspection Reports
  • Conducting “Virtual” Site Inspections:
  • Before Construction and During Grading
  • During Construction