Stormwater Pollution Prevention Training

Stormwater Pollution Prevention Training (SWPP Training) is a crucial component of environmental compliance for facilities and industries that discharge stormwater under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit program. The goal is to educate employees about reducing pollution in stormwater runoff and complying with the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP).

### Key Elements of SWPP Training

#### 1. **Purpose of SWPP Training**
- Understanding the environmental impact of stormwater pollution.
- Importance of preventing pollutants from entering storm drains, streams, and other water bodies.
- Compliance with the Clean Water Act (CWA) and NPDES permit requirements.

#### 2. **Stormwater Basics**
- Definition and sources of stormwater.
- How stormwater runoff occurs (e.g., rainfall, snowmelt).
- Common pollutants in stormwater (e.g., oil, sediment, chemicals, trash, nutrients).

#### 3. **Understanding the SWPPP**
- Overview of the facility's Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan.
- Identifying potential pollutant sources at the site.
- Site-specific Best Management Practices (BMPs) for stormwater pollution control.

#### 4. **Best Management Practices (BMPs)**
- **Good Housekeeping Practices:** Keeping work areas clean and organized to reduce pollutants.
- **Spill Prevention and Response:** Preventing and managing spills effectively.
- **Erosion and Sediment Control:** Using silt fences, sediment traps, or other methods.
- **Proper Waste Management:** Safe storage and disposal of materials and waste.
- **Stormwater Treatment Systems:** Maintenance of catch basins, detention ponds, or filtration systems.

#### 5. **Inspections and Monitoring**
- Conducting routine site inspections to ensure BMPs are functioning correctly.
- Monitoring stormwater discharges for visible pollution or required parameters.
- Maintaining inspection and monitoring records for compliance.

#### 6. **Employee Roles and Responsibilities**
- Identifying individual responsibilities in implementing the SWPPP.
- Knowing who to contact in case of spills or issues.
- Reporting non-compliance or equipment failures.

#### 7. **Emergency Response**
- Procedures to follow during a stormwater-related incident or spill.
- Proper use of spill kits and containment tools.
- Communication and reporting requirements for emergencies.

#### 8. **Regulatory and Compliance Overview**
- Overview of NPDES permit requirements and local stormwater regulations.
- Penalties for non-compliance or causing stormwater pollution.

#### 9. **Training Frequency**
- Initial training for new employees or when SWPPP is updated.
- Annual refresher training to reinforce compliance practices.

#### 10. **Interactive Exercises**
- Walkthrough of facility areas to identify potential pollutant sources.
- Hands-on practice with BMPs, spill response, and stormwater treatment systems.

### Who Should Attend SWPP Training?
- All employees whose activities can impact stormwater quality.
- Facility managers and supervisors overseeing stormwater compliance.
- Contractors working at the site, especially those involved in maintenance or construction.

### Benefits of SWPP Training
- Protects water resources and reduces environmental impact.
- Helps the facility meet legal and permit requirements.
- Reduces the risk of fines or legal action for stormwater violations.
- Promotes a culture of environmental stewardship.

If you're planning SWPP training, would you like help with creating a specific curriculum or materials for your team?