SWPPP stands for Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan. Generally, the SWPPP is a site-specific written document that should identify industrial operations, and should identify practices that the site-specific industrial facility is implementing to prevent and minimize pollutants from reaching stormwater runoff. Along with BMPs (Best Management Practices), the SWPPP (sometimes referred to as SWP3 or SWP2 or SWPP) is usually required by Stormwater Permits pursuant to local authority's adopted NPDES program (authorized by Clean Water Act). The SWPPP is considered a living document and should be updated as necessary to reflect any changes in industrial operations and its pollution prevention practices. The SWPPP should usually be prepared by the discharger before submitting an NOI (Notice of Intent) or General Permit application. Some jurisdictions may require the discharger(s) to file electronically. For example, in California, the SWPPP should be submitted electronically through SMARTS (Storm Water Multiple Application and Report Tracking System).
SWPPP Definition
SWPPP stands for "Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan." SWPPP is sometimes referred to as SWP3 or SWP2 or SWPP, depending on the jurisdiction.
About SWPPP
One of the purposes of this website is to help guide and inform the public regarding SWPPPs and stormwater regulations for stormwater permitting. Note that SWPPPs are considered "living" site-specific written documents that should be kept up-to-date to reflect any changes related to stormwater discharges and control practices. Failure to submit properly prepared SWPPPs may result in penalties or fines depending on the jurisdiction. Businesses may be incentivized to comply with local and federal stormwater regulations to avoid hefty fines. By keeping industrial businesses informed about the possible dangers of stormwater runoff and penalties, compliance is more likely. Industrial businesses benefit. The environment benefits.
SWPPP Requirements
The elements of the SWPPP vary by jurisdiction, but should typically include the following things:
- Facility Name and Contact Information
- Stormwater Pollution Prevention Team responsible for helping implement the Permit
- Site Map and Description
- List of industrial materials
- Summary, description, and assessment of potential pollutant sources;
- Description of control measures, BMPs (minimum Best Management Pratices);
- Schedules and procedures;
- Documentation to support eligibility considerations under other federal laws
- Certification of SWPPP
- Date when SWPPP was prepared or amended
SWPPP Training
The principles of SWPPP Training vary by jurisdiction, but should generally include the following things:
- Appropriate Spill Containment and Cleanup Procedures
- Proper Materials Management
- Proper Materials Storage
- Appropriate procedures for long-term storage or disposal of equipment and vehicles, such as draining all fluids
- Maintenance
- Monitoring
- Inspection
- Reporting
- Planning
- Labeling Storm drains
- Basic Stormwater Runoff Principles
- Basic Stormwater Management Principles (minimizing exposure)
- Discharge Control Measures
- Documentation Requirements
Note: Stormwater Training is generally required for all members of the Pollution Prevention Team. According to the EPA, it is recommended that training be done on an annual basis or immediately for any new applicable employee. For "Employee Training Records", a sign-in/sign-out sheet should be recorded with the SWPPP.
It is important to properly educate employees and staff involved with the site in order to avoid or minimize liability.
Your SWPPP should include the location of your spill cleanup kits and a schedule for training employee spill reduction and cleanup.
SWPPP Templates
The SWPPP Template is used to assist and guide stormwater dischargers in preparing their site-specific SWPPP.
Popular Templates: