Presentation Description : This course will describe the benefits of quality control review to ensure permit compliance. Examples will be provided from an ongoing quality control review program used to ensure accurate and complete construction stormwater permit documentation. Participants will learn the benefits of engaging in peer review at all levels of documentation.
Full Presentation Abstract: Best Mangement Practices include procedures and practices along with the physical measures installed on-site. These procedures include things like inspections and documentation. EPA reports many instances of non-compliance are due to reporting/documentation errors. Quality control review is a critical component of documentation to ensure permit compliance, reducing instances of non-compliance.
In 2010, Alaska Department of Transportation (DOT&PF) entered into a Consent Decree with EPA to avoid litigation over alleged violations of the Clean Water Act due to, amongst other issues, non-compliance with the Stormwater Construction General Permit. One of the requirements of the Consent Decree was to implement a compliance program. One of the components of that program was the creation of a Quality Control Review program, hiring consultants to provide review of all stormwater documents, from the draft SWPPP through filing NOT. Over the course of 5 years, this program reduced documentation errors by over 90%. This quality control program was a factor in DOT&PF showing compliance improvement and allowing DOT&PF to exit their Consent Decree in 2015.
Quality control for processes, i.e., concrete mix design or compaction strength, are familiar, common, and expected components of the construction process. This same thought process needs to be extended to documenting permit compliance.
Learning Objectives:
At the conclusion of this presentation, attendees will:
As the result of taking this course, the learner should be able to successfully create a simple, easy to use, quality control review program for all documentation.
Participants will be able to implement a rigorous QC program, using the Alaska DOT&PF as a model for how one transportation department achieved increased compliance.
Participants will be able to differentiate between what works and what does not during the implementation of their QC program.
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