Search Frequent Questions

Filter By:

Active filters:

Remove all filters

Displaying 1 - 15 of 37 results

  • How often does a facility need to complete an oil spill response training under the FRP requirements?

    Facilities subject to the Facility Response Plan (FRP) regulations in 40 CFR Part 112, Subpart D are required to develop a facility response training program to train those personnel involved in oil spill response activities (§112.21(b)). How often does a facility need to complete an oil spill response training under…

    • Last published:

  • What is a significant and substantial harm facility?

    Some substantial harm facilities may meet the criteria for a significant and substantial harm facility. After you have prepared and submitted your FRP, the RA may determine that your facility has the potential, not just for substantial harm, but for significant and substantial harm. If the RA makes that determination…

    • Last published:

  • Will boiling my water help?

    No. Boiling water will NOT reduce nitrate levels. In fact, it will make the level of nitrate worse because some of the water will evaporate but the nitrate will not. This increases the concentration of nitrate in water.

    • Last published:

  • PE certification for an FRP if an SPCC impracticability determination is made

    If the owner or operator of a facility subject to the SPCC regulations determines that the installation of any of the specified secondary containment structures or equipment is not practicable and accordingly provides in the facility’s SPCC Plan an oil spill contingency plan following the provisions of 40 CFR Part…

    • Last published:

  • Is it safe to shower or bathe in water if it is over the nitrate MCL of 10 mg/L?

    Nitrate is only a concern for ingestion (eating and drinking). It is not absorbed through your skin. People who install filter systems for nitrate often install them just for their kitchen sink faucet, and they use that faucet for their cooking and drinking water.

    • Last published:

  • What is EPA doing?

    EPA is working with its governmental partners and other stakeholders to investigate and address the issue. Most recently, EPA issued a letter to the state of Minnesota requesting a plan of action to address nitrate contamination in drinking water.

    • Last published:

  • What should I do if my water has elevated nitrates and/or exceeds the MCL?

    If nitrate exceeds the MCL of 10 mg/L, you should find a safe alternative drinking water supply. The quickest thing to do is to begin using bottled water for drinking. Another option is to install a treatment that will remove nitrate from your water such as reverse osmosis or a…

    • Last published:

  • Why is nitrate contamination a concern?

    Nitrate is an acute contaminant, meaning that health effects can occur immediately (I.e. within hours or days) of short-term exposure. Too much nitrate in your body makes it harder for red blood cells to carry oxygen. While most people recover quickly, this can be very dangerous for infants and some…

    • Last published:

  • Is it permissible for a training provider to employ more than one training manager?

    Answer : Yes. The Rule requires that a training provider employ a training manager that meets the qualifications in 40 CFR 745.225(c)(1). EPA does not interpret this to be a limitation on the permissible number of training managers. Therefore, a training provider may employ more than one training manager so…

    • Last published:

  • Elements to include in Facility Response Plan

    What key elements should I include in my Facility Response Plan? As you prepare your FRP, be sure that your plan includes the following elements: Emergency Response Action Plan (an easily accessible stand-alone section of the overall plan) including the identity of a qualified individual with the authority to implement…

    • Last published:

  • What are the FRP recordkeeping requirements?

    What FRP recordkeeping requirements must I satisfy? You must maintain the response plan at your facility, along with plan updates reflecting material changes. You must also keep a log of response training drills and exercises. Records of inspections of response equipment must be kept for five years. If you determine…

    • Last published:

  • Under FRP, what is the definition of a qualified individual?

    The FRP regulations require facilities to prepare an emergency response action plan and identify a qualified individual that has full authority, including contracting authority, to implement removal actions (40 CFR §112.20(h)(i)). What is the definition of a qualified individual? The relevant statute, CWA 311(j)(5)(C)(ii) requires that the plan identify the…

    • Last published:

  • If a renovator takes the refresher course early, would the new certification be valid for five years from the date of training, or five years from the date that the previous certification expires?

    Question : I’m a training provider and have been accredited for the renovator refresher course. If a renovator takes the refresher course early (i.e., before their previous certification has expired), would the new certification be valid for five years from the date of training, or five years from the date…

    • Last published:

  • I'm an accredited training provider. Can the final course assessment to be administered in an "open book" format?

    No. The training provider is responsible for maintaining the validity and integrity of the course test to ensure that it accurately evaluates the trainee’s knowledge and retention of the course topics. A course test administered in an open book format does not evaluate whether a student has sufficiently learned and…

    • Last published:

  • How do I have my drinking water tested in the future?

    Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) recommends you use an accredited laboratory to test your water. Contact an accredited laboratory to get sample containers and instructions or ask your county environmental or public health services if they provide well testing services. Accredited Labs in Minnesota Accepting Drinking Water Samples from Private…

    • Last published: