Regulated Industry General Interest

Extension of the Comment Period for Definition of “Waters of the United States” Under the Clean Water Act

Definition of “Waters of the United States” Under the Clean Water Act; Extension of Comment Period Pages 35712 – 35713 [FR DOC # 2014-14674] PDF | Text | More

Those regular readers of the Federal Register will not have failed to notice the recently published (June 24, 2014) extension to the comment period for the proposed rule regarding the definition of Waters of the United States under the Clean Water Act (CWA).  This is a very controversial topic and, no doubt, the sponsors of the proposed rule:  The US Environmental Protection Agency and the US Army Corp of Engineers are responding to public pressure in extending the deadline for interested parties to submit comments.  The new deadline by which comments on the proposed rule must be received is on or before October 20, 2014.  The original end to the comment period was scheduled for July 21, 2014.

For more information on the status of this proposed rule, refer to the USEPA website:  Clean Water Act Definition of “Waters of the U.S.”

Daniels Training Services

815.821.1550

Info@DanielsTraining.com

https://www.danielstraining.com/

 

June 2014 – Rules & Regulations, Proposed Rules, and Notices Regarding the Management of Hazardous Waste and the Transportation of Hazardous Materials

June 2014 – Rules & Regulations, Proposed Rules, and Notices Regarding the Management of Hazardous Waste and the Transportation of Hazardous Materials

On its website the US Government Printing Office makes a wealth of Federal publications available for review and download; one of these is the Federal Register.

Published by the Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), the Federal Register is the official daily publication for rules, proposed rules, and notices of Federal agencies and organizations, as well as executive orders and other presidential documents.

See below for a brief summary of announcements in the Federal Register by the US EPA on the subject of Hazardous Waste and the Pipeline & Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the US DOT on the subject of Transportation of Hazardous Materials.

The Federal Register is a great way to look down the road and see potential changes to the regulations long before they are put into effect (sometimes The Rulemaking Process takes years before a final rule is issued, if ever).  Knowledge of these potential changes provides you with several advantages:

  • Additional time to modify your business operations to comply.
  • Awareness of on what topics the regulatory agencies intend to focus their efforts.
  • The ability to register your concerns, complaints, suggestions, etc. in order to modify the proposed rule before a final rule is issued.  It can be done, really!
  • Make changes to your training program to account for changes that become effective before the next training cycle.
  • Alert you to the need to re-train your employees prior to their next scheduled training cycle, if necessary.
  • Keep you abreast of changes to the regulations that affect your business and/or your industry group.

Please note that this is my best effort to identify the relevant announcements in the Federal Register that may be of interest to generators of hazardous waste and shippers of hazardous materials.  I encourage you to review the list of Federal Register publications yourself to ensure regulatory compliance.

May 30, 2014 through June 30, 2014

EPA – Environmental Protection Agency:

Rules and Regulations:

Identification and Listing of Hazardous Waste

Pages 35290 – 35290 [FR DOC # 2014-14607]

PDF | Text | More

Revisions to the Export Provisions of the Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) Rule

Pages 36220 – 36231 [FR DOC # 2014-14996]

PDF | Text | More

Proposed Rules:

Spring 2014 Regulatory Agenda

Pages 34115 – 34123 [FR DOC # 2014-13130]

PDF | Text | More

Definition of “Waters of the United States” Under the Clean Water Act; Extension of Comment Period

Pages 35712 – 35713 [FR DOC # 2014-14674]

PDF | Text | More

Notices:

None

FAA – Federal Aviation Administration:

Rules and Regulations:

None

Proposed Rules:

None

Notices:

None

FMCSA – Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration:

Rules and Regulations:

None

Proposed Rules:

None

Notices:

Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders

Pages 32014 – 32016 [FR DOC # 2014-12790]

PDF | Text | More

Hours of Service of Drivers: Application of Illumination Fireworks, LLC and ACE Pyro LLC, for Exemption From the 14-Hour Rule During Independence Day Celebrations

Pages 36579 – 36581 [FR DOC # 2014-15043]

PDF | Text | More
FRA – Federal Railroad Administration:

Rules and Regulations:

None

Proposed Rules:

None

Notices:

None

PHMSA – Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration:

Rules and Regulations:

None

Proposed Rules:

None

Notices:

Office of Hazardous Materials Safety

Pages 31178 – 31179 [FR DOC # 2014-12438]

PDF | Text | More

Office of Hazardous Materials Safety; Notice of Application for Special Permits

Pages 31179 – 31180 [FR DOC # 2014-12437]

PDF | Text | More

Office of Hazardous Materials Safety; List of Applications Delayed More Than 180 Days

Pages 31405 – 31406 [FR DOC # 2014-12439]

PDF | Text | More

Office of Hazardous Materials Safety; Notice of Applications for Modification of Special Permit

Pages 31406 – 31406 [FR DOC # 2014-12436]

PDF | Text | More

Hazardous Materials: Notice of Availability of Draft Environmental Assessment and Request for Public Comment for a Special Permit Relating to the Transport of Precursor Chemicals From Syria in Port Arthur, Texas

Pages 33802 – 33803 [FR DOC # 2014-13685]

PDF | Text | More

Office of Hazardous Materials Safety; Notice of Applications for Modification of Special Permit

Pages 35406 – 35407 [FR DOC # 2014-14182]

PDF | Text | More

Office of Hazardous Materials Safety; Notice of Application for Special Permits

Pages 35407 – 35408 [FR DOC # 2014-14181]

PDF | Text | More

Office of Hazardous Materials Safety

Pages 35408 – 35410 [FR DOC # 2014-14129]

PDF | Text | More

Office Of Hazardous Materials Safety; List of Applications

Pages 35410 – 35411 [FR DOC # 2014-14183]

PDF | Text | More

More Information can be helpful but it’s useless if you are not able to make sense of it.  You must be able to determine how any changes to the rules and regulations (final or proposed) will affect your operations, and communicate the necessary information to your personnel.  I can help you to do that.

Daniels Training Services

815.821.1550

Info@DanielsTraining.com

https://www.danielstraining.com/

Please contact for a free training consultation to determine your regulatory requirements and how training can help you to attain and maintain compliance with the regulations of the USEPA (and your state) and the PHMSA/USDOT.

TCEQ Webpage: Air Monitoring Data for Eagle Ford Shale Geological Area

The Bullet:

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has created a new website to provide data to interested parties on the air emissions at the Eagle Ford Shale Geological Area in southeast Texas.

Who:

The Texas Railroad Commission or Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) and the Texas Commission one Environmental Quality (TCEQ).

What:

The Eagle Ford Shale is a hydrocarbon-producing geological formation extending over 26 Texas counties.

The TCEQ webpage contains near real-time air monitoring data from the agency’s Auto GC monitor, sampling results and health effects evaluations by county and links to the Texas Air Monitoring System (TAMIS).  More information about the monitoring method can be found on the webpage.

Where:

The Eagle Ford Shale Geological Area stretches from the Mexican border between Laredo and Eagle Pass up through counties east of Temple and Waco.

When:

The TCEQ webpage was launched June 6, 2014.

How:

The Texas Railroad Commission has primary responsibility for rail and gas facilities in Texas.  The role of the TCEQ is limited to regulating air emissions and ensuring air quality.

Conclusion:

Refer to the TCEQ webpage: Eagle Ford Shale Geological Area for more information.

Due to the unique arrangement of the TCEQ and the RRC in Texas, the generation of waste during the exploration and production of oil and natural gas is subject to RRC regulations and not those of the TCEQ.  However, this authority changes for wastes that are generated “above the hole” during the transportation and processing of oil and natural gas.  Contact me with any questions you may have about the generation of waste within Texas and the applicability of the regulations of the TCEQ or the RRC to your operations.

Daniels Training Services

815.821.1550

Info@DanielsTraining.com

https://www.danielstraining.com/

 

The Environmental Guide for Small Businesses in Minnesota

A guide created by the Small Business  Environmental Assistance Program (SBEAP) within the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA).  It was created for small business manufacturers to provide them with a user-friendly guide to the regulations of the MPCA.  With this information an Environmental Health and Safety professional can determine if their company’s operations are subject to regulation and where they can go for assistance.

The Environmental Guide contains:

  • Short chapters focused by rule areas.
  • A flow chart helps you determine which rules apply to your business.
  • Details on regulation and step-by-step approach to complying.
  • Resources for additional information and assistance.

See the guide for yourself here:  The Environmental Guide for Small Businesses in Minnesota

Daniels Training Services

815.821.1550

Info@DanielsTraining.com

https://www.danielstraining.com/

If used correctly the information in a guide such as this can be used to acquire knowledge.  What you do with that knowledge as an EHS Professional is up to you.  I suggest you contact me for a free consultation on your requirements to comply with the hazardous material transportation regulations of the PHMSA/USDOT and the hazardous waste regulations of the MPCA.

Pioneer Natural Resources in Amarillo, TX is Awarded the Texas Environmental Excellence Award

By taking an innovative approach to its pigging operations Pioneer Natural Resources earned for itself a 2014 Texas Environmental Excellence Award (TEEA). Using a three-tiered approach, Pioneer was able to reduce its operational emissions by 90 percent.  For its efforts, Pioneer was recognized with other winners’ projects at a banquet held on the last night of the TCEQ Environmental Trade Fair and Conference in Austin, TX.  BTW, I wasn’t able to make the TCEQ conference even though I had already registered and paid.  I highly recommend attendance at the conference in 2015 for anyone who does business in Texas.

So what did Pioneer do?  Well, you can read a short summary below, but much more information about the project and a short video summary is available here:  http://teea.org/winners/2014/pollution-prevention/pioneer-natural-resources

First, Pioneer installed larger barrels for pig launching and receiving.  These larger barrels held more pigs – natch! – resulting in less venting of natural gas to the atmosphere when valves are opened to add or remove them.

Secondly, the pressure in the barrels was reduced from 100 pounds of pressure to 1 pound prior to opening.  The result:  Less venting of natural gas to the atmosphere.

And finally, Pioneer installed suction drain lines to route accumulated natural gas liquids back into production.  This differs from standard industry practice which is to drain the liquids into open-air tubs that evaporate into the air.  Yikes!  Really?  That’s “standard industry practice”?

What is pigging?

Pigging is a standard industry process involving running a spherical ball, called a pig, through a pipeline to sweep out accumulated produced liquids and debris.  Loading and retrieving pigs into and from a pipeline often requires opening several hatches and valves that allow small amounts of natural gas to vent into the atmosphere.

Interested in snagging a TEEA for your company in 2015?  The 2015 Application Cycle will open August 2014. Visit the TEEA site to apply. http://teea.org/texas-environmental-excellence-awards

Daniels Training Services

815.821.1550

Info@DanielsTraining.com

https://www.danielstraining.com/

I’ve been conducting Training Seminars and Onsite training in Texas for several years now on the topics of Hazardous Material transportation and Waste Management.  And though they are more strict and more broad than  those of the USEPA and most other states (California being the exception) the regulations of the TCEQ for the management of hazardous waste, Used Oil, Universal Waste, and Non-Hazardous Industrial Solid Waste can be understood.  It just takes good training.

Recent Upgrades to ScrapTheftAlert.com Will Make the Recovery of Stolen Recyclables Easier

The Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI) recently revised and improved on its on-line tool to assist law enforcement in the recovery of stolen recyclable materials.  Known as ScrapTheftAlert.com, the site allows users to report thefts of recyclable scrap, check the database for reported thefts in their area, and view statistics related to the reporting and recovery of scrap on the site.

The recent upgrade will make it easier for law enforcement to track stolen recyclable materials, including:

  • Easier user interface for registering and submitting alerts.
  • The ability to select multiple locations to receive alerts of thefts in your area.
  • Enhanced customizable search capabilities by material, region, date, and key words.
  • Extractable search results.
  • And other features.

For more information about the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries or the ScrapTheftAlert.com website:

Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries, Inc.
1615 L Street, NW
Washington, DC 20036-5610
phone:  202-662-8500  Fax:  202-626-0900

Daniels Training Services is your source for the best HazMat Employee training and (RCRA) Hazardous Waste Personnel training.

Subscribe to the Michigan DEQ Environmental Assistance Bulletin

Daniels Training Services addresses the regulations of the MDEQ

Have your employees received annual training on the regulations of the MDEQ for the management of hazardous waste?

A generator of hazardous waste in Michigan  – or any industrial or commercial entity within the Wolverine State – will benefit from subscribing to the quarterly Environmental Assistance Bulletin provided by the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ).  The Bulletin contains topics of interest for any Michigan business; for example, the Spring 2014 Bulletin contains articles on the following:

  • Michigan Environmental Leaders
  • DEQ Pursues Recycling Improvements
  • New Testing Methods for Beaches in Michigan
  • 2014 Michigan Green Chemistry Governor’s Awards Nominations Open for Innovative Projects
  • Enhanced Pollution Prevention Assessments Available to Small Manufacturers
  • DEQ Storm Water Testing
  • Economy, Energy, Environment Initiative
  • Earth Day 2014
  • 2014 Michigan Environmental Compliance Conference
  • Free ITRC Internet Training Courses
  • Events

If interested you may subscribe to the Bulletin and a host of other email notification at the MDEQ website:  Subscribe to Michigan DEQ Bulletins and Newsletters

MDEQ Quarterly Environmental Assistance Bulletin

A quarterly bulletin from the MDEQ available to the regulated industry within Michigan.

 

Daniels Training Services

815.821.1550

Info@DanielsTraining.com

https://www.danielstraining.com/

A business in Michigan must be familiar with the MDEQ’s unique approach to the management of waste, particularly Liquid Industrial Waste.  My Onsite Training is a great way for you to comply with the annual training requirement for generators of hazardous waste and to teach your employees what they need to know to comply with MDEQ regulations.  Please contact me for a free training consultation.

 

2014 Michigan Environmental Compliance Conference

MDEQ

Take advantage of this low cost environmental compliance conference from the DEQ

All of us can learn more about the regulations.  And when an opportunity presents itself to learn them directly from the environmental regulatory agency in your state – in this case the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) – it’s a good idea to take advantage of it.

What is it?

2014 Michigan Environmental Compliance Conference

When and where?

May 29 -Traverse City
June 5 – Grand Rapids
June 10 – Livonia

How much?

Registration Fee: $130.  This includes breakfast, lunch, conference materials and the brand new 8th Edition of the “Michigan Guide to Environmental, Health, and Safety Regulations.  That’s practically worth the whole $130 right there!

Conference highlights include:
  • Four concurrent tracks with 24 sessions that cover waste and wastewater management, air quality requirements, remediation, pollution prevention and other topics.
  • Release of the 8th Edition of the “Michigan Guide to Environmental, Health, and Safety Regulations” developed by the DEQ and the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
  • “Expert Area” devoted to one-on-one assistance providing you an opportunity to network with DEQ, MIOSHA, and Michigan State Police staff and to get your questions answered.

You will not want to miss this training opportunity if you are responsible for making sure your company, municipality, or institution is in compliance with Michigan’s environmental regulations. Environmental consultants, state and local officials, and anyone else interested in learning about Michigan’s environmental regulations and how to comply are also welcome to attend.

Click here for more information and to register!

Questions:
Alana Berthold
bertholda@michigan.gov
517-284-6854

Learning the regulations of every state that has an authorized hazardous waste program – like Michigan – is a priority of mine.  My Onsite Training focuses on just the regulations you need to know for compliance at your facility, whether it’s State or Federal.  I highly recommend attending this conference (I can’t make it due to scheduling conflicts, but I’ll do everything I can to make the next one).

After attending the conference you decide you need assistance in complying with the regulations of the MDEQ f0r hazardous waste, universal waste, used oil, or liquid industrial waste (it’s a Michigan thing), don’t hesitate to contact me.  I can help.

Small Business Environmental Assistance Program of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

The Bullet:

The Small Business Environmental Assistance Program (SBEAP) provides free, confidential, environmental assistance to small businesses.

Who:

The Small Business Environmental Assistance Program (SBEAP) is a service provided by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA).  The MPCA is the state agency authorized by the USEPA to regulate the protection of the environment (air, land, & water) in Minnesota.

Small businesses are generally defined as independently owned and operated businesses with fewer than 100 employees that are not major sources of waste or emissions.

What:

The focus of the SBEAP is compliance assistance with the regulations of the MPCA, but assistance is also available for going beyond compliance into reducing the regulatory burden faced by small businesses. The SBEAP promotes pollution prevention, best management practices, environmental stewardship, and sustainability.

Where:

Anywhere in the “Land of 10,000 Lakes”.

When:

Assistance begins when you pick up the phone and make the call.

Small Business Environmental Assistance Program staff

  •  Staff: Angie Bourdaghs, Nate Grand, Tom Jablonski, Hien Le, and Aneka Swanson.
  • Hotline: 651-282-6143 or toll free 800-657-3938
  • Fax: 651-297-8701
Why:

Well, it ain’t for the paycheck, the services are free, non-regulatory, and impose no obligations.  If you meet the definition of a small business then this free service is provided by the taxpayers of Minnesota.  And if confidentiality is a concern,

Business-specific information is held confidential from enforcement except in cases of imminent danger to human health and the environment.

How:

The SBEAP provides:

  • One-on-one, compliance assistance on the SBEAP Hotline at 651-282-6143 or 800-657-3938.
  • On-site visits.
  • Educational opportunities such as workshops, trainings, events, printed materials, and informational mailings.
  • Pollution prevention (P2) and best management practice (BMP) assistance and referrals,
  • Communication between the MPCA and businesses.
  • Advocacy on behalf of businesses.
Conclusion:

If I was a small business in Minnesota I would contact the Small Business Environmental Assistance Program of the MPCA whenever I had a question about regulatory compliance.

If you generate a hazardous waste, one thing the SBEAP may tell you is required is to provide annual training for all of your Facility Personnel.  I provide this training and can also provide you with the HazMat Employee training required by the USDOT/PHMSA.  Don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions about the regulations of RCRA or the Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety Act.

Clean up of Broken Fluorescent Lamps

If you have ever handled a fluorescent lamp you know how fragile they are and how easy it is to break one.  I myself have a – rather embarrassing – memory of dropping a box of approximately thirty 4′ long lamps from the height of 1 1/2 feet.  The nearly simultaneous explosion of all of those bulbs caused the box to swell outwards (luckily it held) and then compress in on itself due to the vacuum created.  I was lucky that neither I nor anyone else was hurt.  Lesson learned.  But what about cleaning up the mess?  In order to minimize the risk of mercury exposure (or other hazards that may be present such as lead), please follow these steps: (more…)