Inspection Procedures and Duties Flashcards

During an inspection of a linear utility project, which unique challenge does the inspector face compared to a traditional land development site?

Answer: The disturbed corridor is long and narrow, making it difficult to establish perimeter controls and stabilize slopes quickly

Linear projects present challenges because the elongated disturbance makes perimeter control and rapid stabilization more difficult, and phased construction often leaves long sections exposed.

A CESSWI inspector is reviewing an inlet protection device on a storm drain during a light rain. The device is overflowing at the sides. What is the most likely cause?

Answer: The device is clogged with sediment and has lost its sediment-filtering capacity

Overflow at the sides of an inlet protection device typically indicates sediment buildup has blocked normal flow, meaning the device needs cleanout or replacement.

Which of the following best describes 'non-stormwater discharges' that may be allowed under a construction general permit?

Answer: Specific discharges such as uncontaminated groundwater, landscape irrigation, or fire hydrant flushing that meet permit conditions

Construction general permits typically enumerate allowable non-stormwater discharges (e.g., uncontaminated groundwater dewatering) that must still be managed to avoid pollutant discharge.

What is the correct action when an inspector discovers that records required by the SWPPP (such as inspection reports and training logs) are missing or incomplete?

Answer: Cite the recordkeeping deficiency and require the permittee to produce or recreate documentation as allowed by the permit

Recordkeeping requirements are legally mandated permit conditions; missing records constitute a violation that must be cited and corrected independently of BMP physical condition.

An inspector observes a portable toilet on site that has been tipped over, with contents spilling on the ground. What type of potential violation does this represent?

Answer: A potential stormwater pollutant discharge because sanitary waste can reach waterways via runoff

Spilled sanitary waste is a significant stormwater pollutant that can carry pathogens to waterways and represents a SWPPP non-compliance requiring immediate cleanup.

What is the significance of 'active' versus 'inactive' portions of a construction site from an inspection standpoint?

Answer: Inactive portions that are not disturbed within a defined period may require temporary stabilization, reducing inspection frequency

Many permits allow reduced inspection frequency or waiver for temporarily stabilized inactive areas, but require stabilization measures to be in place to qualify.

During a site inspection, the inspector notices that the owner has applied for a Notice of Termination (NOT). Which site condition must be confirmed before the NOT can be filed?

Answer: All disturbed areas have achieved final stabilization and all temporary BMPs have been removed or will be removed

A Notice of Termination can only be filed once all disturbed areas are finally stabilized, stormwater controls are no longer needed, and the site meets all permit termination conditions.