U. S. Environmental Protection Agency
345 Courtland Street, NE
Everything You Wanted
Environmental
But Were Afraid to Ask
A Guide for Very Sm
Revisions By:
Technology Transfer Unit
Construction & Program Mgmt. Section
Municipal Facilities Branch
Water Management Division
Atlanta, Georgia 30365
Region IV
April 1992
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UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
REGION IV
345 COURTLAND STREET. N.E.
ATLANTA. GEORGIA 30365
Everyt fling you 'Wanted to 9^riozu A6out
'Environmental lieguCatwns...
CBut W'ere JZLfraid to JAsf^
A CjuicCe for Very SmaCC Communities
I am pleased to provide you with a copy of this Guide to
environmental regulations. The development of this Guide is part of
the Small Communities OutReach and Education (SCORE) project in
EPA Region IV.
This handbook is oriented toward the small community, but it
should also be a valuable reference to anyone interested in
environmental regulations. Members of my staff have prepared this
revised edition, which now includes contacts and resources specific to
Region IV. Contacts and information sources are included in each
section of this Guide. In addition, the "resource matrix" in the back of
the Guide has contacts for EPA and the eight Region IV States in
sixteen different environmental programs.
Printed rn Ppcyrlpri Paper
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Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION 1
CROSS MEDIA PROGRAMS
Pollution Prevention 2
Public - Private Partnerships 4
SARA Title III Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know
Act 6
Asbestos 8
Indoor Radon Program 10
AIR PROGRAM
Clean Air Act Amendments 12
LAND PROGRAMS
RCRA Hazardous Waste Program 13
Subtitle D Municipal Solid Waste Landfill 16
Underground Storage Tanks 17
WATER PROGRAMS
Water and Wetlands Protection 19
Drinking water Programs
Inorganic Chemicals 21
Asbestos 25
Fluorides 27
Lead Material Ban 29
Lead and Copper 31
Synthetic Organic Chemicals 35
Volatile Organic Chemicals 39
Coliform Monitoring 44
Surface Water Treatment Rule 47
Radionuclides 50
Disinfection and Disinfection By-products 53
Public Notification 55
Regulatory Development Schedule 61
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Wellhead Protection Program
Wellhead Protection 62
Wastewater Programs
National Pollution Discharge Eliminacion System 64
Secondary Treatment of Municipal Wastewater 66
Sewage Sludge Use and Disposal 67
Pretreatmenc Requirements 69
Scorm Water 71
DEFINITIONS / ACRONYMS 7 3
RESOURCES 7 5
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INTRODUCTION
This handbook was prepared with the very small local units of
government (communities) in mind. For the purpose of this
handbook, a very small community is defined as a local unit of
government with a population of 5000 or less. It was prepared for
use by the officials of such communities as a quick reference to
the environmental issues facing their constituencies.
Information presented in the handbook is meant only as a summary of
basic pnvironmental requirements and/or agency guidance criteria
for very small communities . It is not intended to serve as a
definitive statement to the specific ways in which a community may
assure environmental compliance, but as a quick guide to the
environmental programs that typically apply to most very small
communities. The handbook does not provide a complete overview of
all federal and state environmental requirements. As an example,
EPA's Superfund Program is not discussed m this handbook since the
majority of very small communities do not have superfund issues.
The requirements and guidance presented in this handbook are based
on federal regulations and/or guidance as implemented by a federal
agency, usually the Environmental Protection Agency. States and
Indian Tribes are required to adopt rules at least as stringent as
these federal rules. States and Tribes may adopt rules that are
somewhat different in some cases, e.g., frequency of sampling or
required date of implementation. Be sure to ask for and read the
rules from the appropriate state or tribal agency.
This document was initially prepared-, in late 1990 by the Midwest
Assistance Program, Inc. under contract to EPA Region VIII. It was
expanded by EPA Region VIII in early 1991. The purpose of the
expansion was to include the EPA non-regulatory programs that
typically apply to very small local units of government.
This version of the handbook was revised by the Technology Transfer
Unit, Construction and Program Management Section, Municipal
Facilities Branch, Water Management Division, of EPA Region IV and
includes contacts and resources specific to Region IV.
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CROSS MEDIA PROGRAMS
POLLUTION PREVENTION
EPA's Pollution Prevention approach
The Pollution Prevention Act of 1990 establishes pollution
prevention as national policy--EPA's preferred approach for
protecting human health and the environment. The primary goal of
pollution prevention is preventing or reducing the generation of
wastes and pollutants at the source. Pollution that cannot be
prevenped should be recycled whenever possible. Pollution that
cannot be prevented ' or recycled should be treated m an
environmentally safe manner. Disposal or other release into the
environment should be used only as a last resort and should be
conducted in an environmentally safe manner. Instead of using
traditional pollution treatment and control methods to stop
existing pollutants from reaching the environment, pollution
prevention aims to anticipate and avoid the generation of
pollutants in the first place.
Actions for communities
Rulings by courts, pronouncements by EPA, or wishing alone cannot
clean up the environment or keep it from becoming more polluted.
What we need is an attitude change. Community leaders can develop
policies that encourage environmental awareness and ' provide
mechanisms to help build the ethic of preventing pollution. Small
communities are in a unique position to make things happen and to
win the battle against pollution. Local governments can encourage
and stimulate the practice of pollution prevention at all levels:
by industry and manufacturing, by private and public business
(including agriculture, transportation, energy generators,
hospitals and schools), by communities and individuals.
Here are suggestions of how community leaders can fight pollution
and preserve environmental quality, human health and natural
resources:
o Set pollution prevention as a major goal and integrate the
concept into governmental activities. Publicly recognize
pollution prevention as a priority. Practice what you
preach--set an example.
o Educate the public as well as business and industry about
pollution prevention. Create an awareness of the
profitability and benefits of pollution prevention through
greater efficiency and utilization of natural resources.
o Develop programs that provide environmental alternatives:
Recycle paper, glass, plastic, aluminum, scrap
metal, motor oil, and yard wastes.
Use less energy. Set back thermostats, insulate,
buy energy-efficient lighting and appliances, and
make creative use of daylight.
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~ U S 6 i 3 b S Wcl L S L' . ii 6 CO H S 1" V ciiiVG . 'U S S U L If. L" ci - ± O v'
flush toilers, install water meters, repair leaks,
review maintenance schedules, use water conserving
landscaping.
Transportation. Buy energy efficient automobiles
and other fleet vehicles and, keep them tuned.
Carpool, bike, walk, or use mass transit when
possible.
Sustainable agriculture. Take advantage of
natural methods of protection. Apply pesticides
such as insecticides and herbicides carefully if
they muse, be used.
Reduce smoke, radon, asbestos and ocher indoor-air
pollutants.
Hazardous waste. Reduce toxic use, encourage
product substitution and operation modification to
environmentally sound practices. Recycle used
motor oil.
Buy recycled or recyclable products. Seek ouc
reusable, recyclable or returnable packages.
Lead. Be careful around surfaces covered with
lead-based paint, and be cautious when children
are nearby during renovation or rehabilitation of
old buildings. Be sure drinking water does not
contain harmful levels of lead or other
contaminants.
Plant trees, shrubs, and indoor plants. They
replenish the earth's oxygen supply, and clean the
air by removing pollution.
Additional Information
EPA, Region IV, Pollution Prevention Office: (404) 347-7109
EPA, Region IV, Technology Transfer Unit, Municipal Pollution
Prevention: (404) 347-3633
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UKUSS MEDIA PROGRAMS
PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS
As a community leader, you face the prospect of building or
upgrading facilities to meet environmental needs. You already may
be feeling the squeeze of growing environmental protection needs
and expectations coupled with decreased funding for infrastructure
projects. Aa the pressure grows to minimize rate shock for
facility users, local community leaders must find new ways for
their communities to hold down costs and build public support for
necessary additional expenses. Public-private partnerships offer
one solution.
"The Self-Help Guide for Local Governments" has beer, written to
acquaint local officials with the |concept of public-private
partnerships, their benefits, and the sbeps a community must take
to build relationships with the private sector. This information
will be conveyed in the following sections:
Public-Private Partnerships: What and Why
A public-private partnership is a contractual relationship between
a public and private partner that commits both to providing an
environmental service. The private sector can be involved in a
variety of ways, from the initial design of a facility to its daily
operation and maintenance.
Although each arrangement is unique, most public-private
partnerships fall into one of five categories. These types are
contract services, turnkey facilities, developer financing,
privatizations, and' merchant facilities. There are different
benefits associated with each of these categories.
Communities enter into partnerships for various reasons. These
include: access to more sophisticated technology; cost-effective
design, construction and/or operation; flexible financing;
delegation of responsibility and risk; and guaranteed cost.
Building a Public-Private Partnership: An Action Checklist
No two communities build a partnership in exactly the same way, but
all must take roughly the same steps. This document presents an
action checklist cf these steps that will help a community make
many decisions necessary to enter into a contract with a private
firm.
A community initiates the public-private partnership process by
evaluating its service needs, reviewing available technology, and
identifying resources that may be able to assist in the development
of the contract. It is also important for community leaders to
generate public support while they are evaluating financing
prospects and studying laws and regulations.
Reviewing a potential private partner's track record is also an
important part of the process. Another option a municipality may
consider is regionalizing services with surrounding communities.
Eventually, local officials must narrow partnership options, select
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and conduct its procurement process and finally. develop rhe
service agreement.
Financing, Procurement, and the Service Agreement
Three of the most difficult steps in building a public-private
partnership are financing, procurement, and the service agreement.
In choosing a-financing method, a community should estimate the
capital required and identify various financing options. These
financing strategies should then be assessed against the financial
condition of the municipality, the project's costs and any risks.
The community must select the option which is most appropriate by
comparing benefits and costs.
A local government starts to implement its choice by initiating the
procurement process. The three types of procurement most
communities select are advertised procurement, competitive
negotiation, and two-step advertising. While advertised
procurement allows the community to dictate the terms of the
solicitation, competitive negotiation offers greater flexibility.
Two-step advertising is a mixture of the other two.
Finally, a partnership arrangement must be defined in a service
agreement. Each contract must include a number of elements. The
contract must define: the project and performance criteria;
compensation method and timing; changing situations and risk
allocations; and contract termination and step-in-rights.
Insurance and bonding should also be considered since they may
affect the terms of the contract.
Additional Information
EPA, Region IV, Technology Transfer Unit, (404) 347-3633
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CROSS MEDIA PROGRAMS
SARA TITLE III - THE EMERGENCY PLANNING AND COMMUNITY RIGHT-TO-KNOW
ACT
SARA Title III has two purposes: to encourage and support
emergency planning for responding tc chemical accidents, and to
provide local governments and the public with timely and
comprehensive * information about possible chemical hazards in
communities.
Does t,he Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act apply
to my community?
Yes, the chemicals m your community nay pose a threat to citizens
and to those individuals being asked to respond to emergencies
involving hazardous substances. All facilities, including
government facilities, in your community storing certain hazardous
chemicals (excluding specified quantities) must provide information
to government agencies and local communities. Also, if there is a
chemical accident, and if the accident results in the release of
any one of a large number of hazardous substances, immediate
notification must be made to governmental agencies.
The law provides stiff penalties for facilities that do not comply,
and it allows citizens to file lawsuits against companies and
government agencies to force them to.obey the law.
What are the requirements under this law?
The law, passed in October 1986, had many requirements and
deadlines associated with its passage. For example, governors were
required to establish State.Emergency Response Commissions (SERCs);
facilities subject to emergency planning requirements were required
to notify their state commissions; and SERCs were required to
appoint Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPCs). LEPCs were
required to analyze hazards and develop a local emergency plan to
respond to chemical emergencies in each local district.
Additionally, the LEPC must exercise, review and update the plan
annually, informing the public of these activities.
The LEPC has other responsibilities besides developing an emergency
response plan. It receives emergency release and hazardous
chemical inventory information submitted by local facilities, and
must make this information available to the public upon request.
Title III requires owners and operators of facilities storing
specified hazardous substances to report to the LEPC within 60
days. As a result, the law allows small communities to identify
what needs to be done at the local level to better deal with
chemical emergencies.
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If the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act applies,
what should I do?
As a local official you should insist on complete planning and
adequate preparation for an emergency. Review the membership list
of your Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) . Make sure it is
fully representative of the community and includes individuals from
citizen groups, fire departments, public institutions (hospitals,
schools, state and local governments), medical, industry and
business fields, and farmers. It is important not only to
participate in emergency planning but to also communicate with the
public.
Become familiar with the lav/ so that you will know whac cools are
being made available to the community to better assess and manage
risks present within the community. Identify what needs to be done
at the local level to better prepare the response community to more
effectively deal with and prevent chemical emergencies.
Additional Information
EPA, Region IV, Emergency Response Branch, (404) 347-5065
SARA Title III Hotline, 1-800/5 3 5-02 02
(See the listing for the State Emergency Response Commissions in
the Resource section)
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CROSS MEDIA PROGRAMS
ASBESTOS
On October 22, 1986, the President signed the Asbestos Hazard
Emergency Response Act (AHERA) into law. The Act required EPA to
develop regulations creating a comprehensive framework for
addressing asbestos hazards in schools. The Act required EPA to
construct a nodel accreditation program for individuals who conduce
inspections for asbestos, develop management plans, and perform
abatement work.
Other provisions of AHERA require all public and privace elementary
and secondary schools to conduct inspections for asbestos-
containing building materials, develop management plans, and
implement response actions m a timely fashion. Specifically, each
local education acency (or LEA, which means a public school
district or private school) must do the following:
Designate and train a person to oversee asbestos-related
activities in the LEA (designated person).
Inspect every school building for both friable and
nonfriable asbestos-containing building materials.
Prepare a nar.agement plan for managing asbestos and
controlling exposure in each school and submit that plan
to the appropriate State agency. The plan should include
a time frame for implementation of recommended actions.
Use only properly accredited persons to conduct
inspections and develop the asbestos management plan.
Accredited personnel must also conduct the required
triennial reinspections.
Provide custodial staff and short-term workers with
information about the location of any asbestos-containing
materials. Post warning labels as required.
Provide custodial and maintenance staff with two hours
of awareness training and an additional 14 hours
of training for employees whose duties may cause them to
disturb asbestos. This additional training must include
proper work practices and the use of protective
equipment when disturbing asbestos-containing materials.
Notify parents, teachers, and other school employees
about the asbestos inspection and the availability of the
asbestos management plan for review.
Utilize properly accredited individuals to design and
conduct asbestos abatement actions that are necessary
and appropriate to protect health and the environment.
These actions or methods must be documented in the
management plan.
Keep records of all asbestos-related activities in the
plan and make them available for public review.
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Inform employees and building occupants or their Legal
guardians annually regarding tne management, plan
availability and related ongoing activities pertaining to
implementation.
Management plans were submitted co State agencies on or before May
9, 1989, as mandated by the provisions of AHERA. LEAs were
required to begin implementation of their management plans by July
9, 1989. LEAs "are required to update and maintain management plans
to reflect activities with ongoing operations and maintenance,
periodic surveillance, inspection, reinspection, and response
action activities.
What help is available?
EPA has established several programs to assist schools m assessing
and managing their asbestos related problems. Through its
Headquarters office in Washington, D.C. and the Regional office,
the Agency provides direct technical assistance to help school
officials, school employees and parents better understand asbestos
issues. EPA provides funds to assist States m developing asbestos
programs, and to help schools comply with federal asbestos
regulations.
Under the Asbestos School Hazard Abatement Act (ASHAA) program, EPA
provides financial aid to schools in the form of an interest-free
loan, grant, or a combination of both.
How do I obtain more information?
Under AHERA, LEAs afford citizens., the opportunity to become
familiar with asbestos activities in their respective school
districts. The initial point of contact to obtain information on
asbestos activities should be the LEA designee. This individual is
most familiar with the asbestos situation in your school.
Additionally, State AHERA designees and local, State, and national
parent and teacher organizations are excellent sources for
requesting information on asbestos activities.
Additional Information
EPA Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Hotline - (404) 347-5065
ASHAA Asbestos Hotline (Schools) - 1-800/462-6706
EPA has an asbestos ombudsman to help citizens with asbestos-in-
schools issues, questions, and complaints. Call 1-800/462-6706
Call (404) 347-5014 to obtain the following documents: Managing
Asbestos in Place: a Building Owner's Guide to Operations and
Maintenance Programs for Asbestos-Containing Materials; The ABC's
of Asbestos in Schools; 100 Commonly Asked Questions About the New
AHERA Asbestos'-in-Schools Rule
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CROSS MEDIA PROGRAMS
INDOOR RADON PROGRAM
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the
natural breakdown (radioactive decay) of uranium in soil, rock and
water. Radon moves up through the ground to the air above and into
homes and other buildings through cracks or holes in the
foundation, and other entry points. The home accs to trap radon
gas, especially when the home is closed, increasing indoor radon
levels. Most soils contain varying amounts of uranium, and,
therefore, elevated radon levels have beer, found in homes, schools
and buildings throughout the U.S.
Exposure to high radon levels is dangerous. The healchihazard from
radon arises from inhaling of its radioactive decay products. The
Surgeon General has warned that radon is the second leading cause
of lung cancer in the U.S. today. For persons who smoke, the
health risk of elevated radon levels is especially high.
The EPA has established an action level for indoor air radon levels
of 4 pci/1 (picocuries per liter) . Nearly one out of every 15
homes m the U.S. are estimated to have radon levels that exceed
the'action level. The EPA has established a testing procedure for
testing homes, schools and buildings. This procedure is described
in the "Citizen's Guide to Radon".
In 1988, Congress enacted the Indoor Radon Abatement Act (IRAA)
with the goal of reducing indoor radon levels to radon levels found
in outside air. Among other provisions, IRRA provided funds for
state governments to establish radon.programs and to assist local
governments and communities in encouraging residents to test for
radon and mitigate elevated radon levels. IRAA also required EPA
to develop a national description of radon levels in homes and
schools throughout the country. To date, 40 states and 7 Indian
Nations in conjunction with the EPA have conducted radon
residential surveys to characterize statewide radon distributions.
Additionally, about 1200 schools were tested in the winter of 1991.
Results of the National School Radon Survey should be available in
June, 19 92.
IRAA also required the EPA to develop a program to evaluate radon
mitigation contractors and radon measurement labs. In response,
the EPA established four regional radcn training centers to train
radon professionals. The EPA also developed a national proficiency
exam to test the knowledge of radon contractors. Contractors who
pass the exam are listed on the Radon Contractor Proficiency (RCP)
list. As of February, 1991, about 1200 contractors were included
on the RCP list.
Does the radon program apply to my community?
Local communities, in concert with state governments, play a vital
role in reducing the public health risk of radon. It is very
likely that there are homes, day care centers, schools or
commercial buildings in your community that have elevated indoor
air concentrations of radon.
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Curenr 1 -/ ( post radon-rels~.ed policies are non-rsg 111 atory . EPA,
scats and local governments have focused their energies toward
educating the public about the health risk of radon and encouraging
voluntary testing of homes and buildings. Some states, however,
have developed radon regulations, including certification of radon
professionals and mandatory testing of all public schools.
Additionally, by the end of 1991, model building codes for new
construction will be developed that may be incorporated into the
building codes of local jurisdictions. Finally, Congressional
attention has been directed toward required radon testing during
real estate transactions that involve federal agencies, such as FHA
or HUD
Local governments can act to protect their residents from radon,
then, m several ways. First, through developing radon education
and outreach programs. Second, through adopting radon-resistant
building codes for new construction, such as the model codes
currently proposed by the EPA. Third, by encouraging voluntary
testing in local communities. Fourth, by ensuring that local radon
contractors are RCP-listed. Finally, by working in conjunction
with the state radon office and community organizations such as the
American Lung Association to elevate local attention to this
important health risk.
Action your community should be taking
Become familiar with the health risks associated with radon, as
well as the ways'radon enters homes, schools and buildings.
Identify ways to educate the community about radon and to encourage
voluntary testing.
Contact your state radon office. Request their assistance in
providing you with public information about radon, including
citizen guides to radon, current lists of radon contractors and
measurement firms, and the status of state regulatory programs.
Additional Information
The EPA has established a toll-free radon number for radon - 1-
800/SOS-RADON. Many states also have toll-free numbers to answer
questions regarding radon.
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AIR PROGRAM
CLEAN AIR ACT AMENDMENTS
Will the Clean Air Act Amendments apply to my community?
Most provisions will not affect very small communities. However,
there may be instances when impacts may occur. There may arise
situations when air toxics are being emitted by a facility in
excess of the MC'L's (Maximum Contaminant Levels) . Also, on
occasion, some communities may have wood burning or particulate
problems that will need co be dealt with.
Actions my community should be taking
Prior to initiating significant involvement to address air
pollution issues which may arise, small communities should contact
their state air pollution agency and the Regional EPA Small
Community Coordinator for guidance. The Air Program is aware of
the economic impact which the Clean Air Act Amendments may have on
small communities. Therefore, before taking any regulatory action
which may affect small communities, Regional Offices of EPA will
contact EPA Headquarters and determine the possible impacts of the
action.
Additional Information
Clean Air Act Amendments
TITLE VIII- MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
Sec. 810. Impact on small communities
Before implementing a provision of this Act, the Administrator of
the Environmental Protection Agency shall consult with the Small
Communities Coordinator of the Environmental Protection Agency to
determine the impact of such provision on small communities,
including the estimated cost of compliance with such provision.
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LAND PROGRAMS
RCRA HAZARDOUS WASTE PROGRAM
Hazardous waste is prevalent throughout all levels of commerce and
industry. Wastes are identified as hazardous if they pose a
potential danger to human health and/or the environment when not
properly treated, stored, transported, disposed, or otherwise
managed. Potential dangers include explosions, fires, corrosive
destruction of materials, chemical reactions, and/or health
impairing exposure to toxic chemicals. The greater the quantity or
concentracion o£ chemicals exhibiting any of these dangers, the
greater the need to assure their proper management.
In 1976, Congress enacted the Resource Conservation and Recovery
Act (RCRA) as the primary regulatory vehicle to assure that
hazardous waste is properly managed from the point of its
generation to its ultimate disposal or destruction, i.e., "from
cradle to grave". RCRA establishes a very complex and
comprehensive set of requirements to define what hazardous waste is
subject to regulation as well as the responsibilities of anyone who
generates, transports, stores, treats, disposes or otherwise
manages hazardous waste. At this time, waste generated by
individual households, many of v/hich may still exhibit some of the
dangers described above, are not subject to federal RCRA
requirements.
Currently, there are three categories of hazardous waste generators
under the RCRA program requirements:
Full Generator - Facilities that generate more than 1000
kilograms per month of any hazardous waste or more than 1
kilogram of any "acute" hazardous waste. A kilogram is
approximately 2.2 pounds and 1000 kilograms is approximately
five 55 gallon drums of material.
Small Quantity Generator - Facilities that generate less than
1000 kilograms per month of hazardous waste but more than 100
kilograms per month (approximately one half 55 gallon drum).
Small quantity generators are given additional time to comply
with new regulations and for on-site storage of their waste.
Conditionally Exempt Generator - Facilities that generate less
than 100 kilograms a month of any hazardous waste are
conditionally exempt from the RCRA regulations. These
facilities may generally dispose of their waste in accordance
with State "solid waste" requirements such as those described
under the Subtitle D program (Municipal Solid Waste Landfill
Criteria).
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Does the RCRA Program apply to my community?
It is very likely that some types of hazardous waste are generated
by businesses in your community or by your municipal facility-
operations themselves. Because hazardous waste includes things
like solvents/ corrosives, and materials containing heavy metals
like chrome, cacir.ium, and lead, vehicle maintenance shops often
generate hazardous waste that may be subject to RCRA requirements.
Any discarded • material must be evaluated to determine if it has
been listed by EPA as hazardous waste or if the waste exhibits any
of the following characteristics: ignitablity, corrosivity.
reactivity, or toxicity as determined by the Toxic Characteristic
Leaching Procedure (TCLP) test.
In addition to used materials which might be considered hazardous
waste, you must also be careful with your management of products
that no longer are wanted or needed, and you now wish to discard.
Leftover pesticides from grounds keeping operations, old paint
thinner, etc. must be fully evaluated before you determine what you
are going to do with the waste. EPA has identified several hundred
chemical products which, if disposed of, would also be considered
"listed hazardous waste".
Another area of possible concern for /our community would be the
operation of a trash collection system and/or a landfill.
Normally, because household wastes are currently exempt from RCRA
regulation, municipal landfills are regulated under a program
referred to as the "Subtitle D Municipal Solid Waste Landfill
Criteria" which is intended to insure proper management of the
municipal landfill. However, the addition of commercial waste
materials collected and/or co-disposed with the household materials
might trigger RCRA jurisdiction over the entire facility.
Timetable
RCRA regulations were first published in 1980 and are constantly
amended to add new wastes subject to the program. Once you
determine that you are a handler of hazardous waste (i.e., either
generating, storing, transporting, etc.), you must notify EPA
and/or the State Hazardous Waste Office of your activity and
receive an EPA RCRA identification number.
Different timetables and responsibilities apply to the different
activities. Generators may accumulate waste on-site for up to 90
days without triggering a requirement to obtain a storage permit.
Small quantity generators have up to 180 days.
Securing a permit authorizing the treatment, storage, or disposal
of hazardous waste is a very expensive and lengthy process.
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Action your community should be taking
Become familiar with the kinds of v/aste materials that are subject
to RCRA regulation.
Identify ways to reduce or recycle chemicals that are generating
v/aste. Find non-toxic substitute products for hazardous chemicals.
Buy the right amount of chemicals you need, not more. Try to find
someone to use unwanted, unused chemicals rather than throwing them
away .
Become familiar with the industrial facilities served by your
community. Understand how they are managing their dangerous and
hazardous, waste.
Additional Information
The RCRA regulations are published at 40 CFR Part 260 through Part
272. Part 261 defines what materials are hazardous waste and
therefore subject to the RCRA requirements. (See the listing for
the Solid and Hazardous Waste Program Directors in the Resource
section.)
Many States have been approved by EPA to apply and enforce the
federal RCRA hazardous waste requirements. You may wish to contact
your State Environmental Agency to get more information on how your
State offices are involved.
EPA has also established a toll free RCRA Hotline to answer
questions regarding the applicability or interpretation of the RCRA
regulations. The RCRA Hotline number is 1-800/424-9346.
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LAND PROGRAMS
SUBTITLE D MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE LANDFILL CRITERIA
Municipal Solid Wasce is a non-hazardous waste generated ac
residences, commercial establishments, and institutions.
The Subtitle D Municipal Solid Waste Landfill Criteria proposed
rule sets general facility standards, groundwater monitoring
requirements, closure and post closure standards, and performance
and operating requirements.
Does the rule apply to my community?
The rule applies only if your community owns or operates a
landfill. The rule at this time is proposed. It will be effective
18 months after promulgation.
Timetable
Final regulations have been postponed several times, but are
expected to be published during 1991..
Action your community should be taking
Be alert to the publishing of final regulations. Expect
changes in the regulations from August 1988.
Be prepared to either not accept waste or upgrade to ineec
criteria.
Develop community education and recycling programs.
Plan and prepare solid waste management and disposal options.
Additional Information
40 CFR Part 258, Proposed regulations under RCRA Subtitle D Part
258, Criteria for Municipal Solid Waste Landfills
RCRA Hotline - 1-800/424-9346
Technical guidance will be available after promulgation.
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LAND PROGRAMS
UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANKS
What is an Underground Storage Tank? An Underground Storage Tank
(UST) is any tank, including underground piping connected to the
tank, that has at least '10 percent of its volume underground.
Does the UST regulation apply to my community?
Yes, if an UST is storing either petroleum or certain hazardous
chemicals and it fits the UST definitions. Host communities have
iJSTs covered by these regulations.
Does the UST regulation apply to all underground storage tanks?
Mo, some exclusions are:
1. Farm or residential tanks holding 1,100 gallons or less of
motor fuel used for noncommercial purposes
2. Tanks storing heating oil which is used on site
3. Emergency spill or overfill containment UST system
4. Septic tanks and systems for collecting scorm or wastewater
5. Wastewater treatment tanks regulated under the Clean Water Act
6. Tanks whose capacity is 110 gallons or less
7. Storage tanks on or above the floor of an underground area,
such as a basement, tunnel or vault
8. Field constructed tanks
If the UST regulation does apply, what must the owner do?
1. Equip the UST with devices that prevent spill and overfills by
December 1998
2. Protect the tank and piping from corrosion or structural
failure by upgrading it by December 1998
3. Equip the tank and piping with leak detection within the
following specified time frames:
Tank and Piping Age: Leak Detection is Required By:
25 years or older December 1989
20 - 25 years old December 1990
15 - 19 years old December 1991
11 - 14 years old December 1992
5-9 years old December 1993
4. Verify that the stored contents are compatible with the tank's
interior walls
17
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r . B2 financially responsible for the cof.r oc cleaning no a leo!:
or compensating other people for bodily injury and propercy
damage caused by the leaking UST
I own tanks to which regulations apply, but I'm not using them,
what should I do?
Follow closure requirements for tanks temporarily or permanently
closed. (Mote: Tanks noc used for 3 to 12 months can be
Temporarily closed.) Beyond 12 months, for permanent closure, the
tank will have to be emptied and cleaned, possibly removed. The
Scate Agency will help you decide how best co close che UST so thac
i;; meecs all local and state requirements .
If a leak or spill should occur, what must be done?
1. Contact the fire department to ensure than it does not pose a
hazard to human health and safety.
2. Tell the State Agency within 24 hours; the regulatory authority
will decide if you must take further action.
3. Assume financial responsibility for taking corrective measures
and compensating individuals who are harmed by leaks or spills
from USTs that store petroleum products.
4. If closure is necessary, notify the State Agency as soon as
possible before you close your UST.
What are the reporting requirements?
You need to check with your State Agency about the particular
reporting requirements in your area. You may only need to report to
che State Agency at the beginning and end of the UST system's
operating life.
Additional Information
"Musts for USTs: A Summary of the New Regulation for Underground
Storage Tank Systems", U.S. EPA, Office of Underground Storage
Tanks, July 1990.
RCRA/Superfund Hotline 1-800/424-9346
Local Fire Marshall
Your State Agency will also be able to provide additional
information.
(See the listing for the State UST Program offices in the Resource
section)
18
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WATER PROGRAMS
WATER AND WETLANDS PROTECTION PROGRAM
The National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and Federal water
Pollution Control Act of 1972 (later amended and renamed the Clean
Water Act) expanded the definition of waters of the United States
to include wetlands and mandated every federal agency to assess the
environmental impact of any proposed federal actions. Protection of
U.S. waters and wetlands involves several federal agencies
(primarily the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Soil
Conservation Service) plus many State Agencies (usually State
Departments of Environmental Quality, Health, Conservation,
Transportation, Agriculture and others) . The function of these
legislative acts, and subsequent regulations are to restore and
maintain the chemical, physical and biological integrity of the
U.S. waters and including wetlands.
U. S. waters include lakes, streams, rivers, wetlands and coastal
waters. Wetlands include saturated or flooded areas where there is
a prevalence of aquatic or hydrophytic vegetation, such as in
swamps, marshes, bogs and other similar areas. Protecting these
U.S. waters and wetlands means virtually any type of activity which
affects or may potentially affect them could require a regulatory
review prior to the activity commencing. Violation of these and
related environmental protection laws can involve stiff penalties,
including fines, requirements to restore the area and/or
imprisonment.
Action my community should be taking-
Check before you act. The three agencies most frequently involved
are :
U.S. Department of Defense, Army Corps of Engineers
U.S. Department of Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Contact each of these agencies prior to commencing activities which
might affect the chemical, physical or biological integrity of any
U.S. waters or wetlands.
Additional Information
The Clean Water Act of 1977 (33 U.S.C. 1251-1376)
The National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321)
Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act of 1934, amended 1946, 1958,
1977 (16 U.S.C. 661-667e)
River and Harbor Act of 1899, Section 10 Hazardous Waste
19
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CO Z 3 Z Z. P. , l"! 0 2 c: l" C -C. '1 T . V C .'.r.'f O " .! r' 7 ^ J'. [nr: ' ¦ r{ r |
(33 U.3.C. 14 31)
The Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 (16 U.S.C. 1451)
The Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531)
U.S. Army Corps of Engineer Regulations (33 CFR 320-330)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (40 CFR 230, also known as the
404(b)(1) guidelines)
Executive Order 119 90, May 25, 1977, pages 26961-26965.
The Wetlands Protection Hotline operates Monday through Friday,
excluding Federal holidays, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (EST). The
Hotline number is '1-800/832-7828.
(See the listing for the Federal Wetlands contacts in the Resource
section)
20
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WATER PROGRAM
DRINKING WATER
INORGANIC CHEMICALS
Inorganic Chemicals (IOCs) are elements or compounds found
in water supplies and may be natural in the geology or caused by
activities of"man through mining, industry or agriculture. It is
common co have trace amouncs of many IOCs in water supplies.
Amounts above the Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) may cause a
vanecy of damaging effects co the liver, kidney, nervous system,
circulatory system, blood, gastrointestinal system, bones, or skin
depending upon the IOC and level of exposure. Some IOCs are more
damaging to infants and pregnant women.
Because of some special aspects of the rules for asbestos, lead and
fluoride, separate pages are prepared for them in this booklet.
Do the IOC regulations apply to my community?
Yes, at present there are 13 regulated IOCs (including fluoride
lead, and copper).
All community public water supply systems must monitor for
regulated IOCs in their water supply. Sampling for IOCs is required
every three years for groundwater supplies and every year for
surface water supplies under present rules.
Timetable (for revisions to regulations)
New regulations called Phase II were finalized January 30, 1991,
which added 2 new IOCs, asbestos and nitrate, and changed the MCLs
for four of the current IOCs. Silver is now a secondary MCL. As
a result of this regulation non-transient non-community (NTNC) PWSs
(Public Water Supply) will be required to test for IOCs, and all
PWSs (both community and non-community) will be required to test
for nitrate and nitrite at least annually.
PWSs will continue to take IOC samples as they have in the past
until January 1, 1993. A new monitoring framework was proposed for
this rule to standardize monitoring for all the new regulations.
The standardized monitoring framework (SMF) is comprised of a nine
¦year cycle called a compliance cycle and three 3-year periods
called compliance periods. For example, a groundwater PWS would
have to test for IOCs sometime in the first compliance period
(January 1, 1993 - January 1, 1996) . This regulation allows PWSs
to get waivers for monitoring. A waiver either eliminates or
reduces monitoring. A PWS with a waiver for IOCs means that they
would need to sample once each compliance cycle or once every nine
years beginning January 1, 1993. It is the PWSs responsibility to
ask the state for a waiver prior to January, 1993. It is the
State's responsibility to grant the waiver.
Additional new regulations called Phase V were proposed on July 25,
1990, and add six new IOCs. These rules will be final in March,
1992. A PWS would be allowed to ..apply for a waiver after 3
monitoring rounds if the new IOCs were not detected. Again a
21
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v."3 -i ver : -jir IOC.? would reduce sanola na to once every 9 ve^vs .
EPA may be expected to add an occasional IOC to the regulated list
from time to cirne and may change some MCLs of IOCs as new research
clarifies levels of contamination considered hazardous. Mosc IOCs
are tested from the same sample requiring no additional work and
little additional cost for the community.
New sampling requirements for nitrate/nitrites will be quarterly
for surface water supplies and annually for groundwater supplies.
These frequencies may be reduced or increased by the State based
upon the levels of nitrate/nitrite found. The new sampling
requirements begin January 1, 1993. EPA does not allow waivers for
nicrates. Therefore, PWSs can expect tc sample at least annually.
MCLs
A separate page follows to list current and proposed MCLs
for IOCs.
Action your community should be taking
1. . Continue sampling yearly or every three years for currently
regulated IOCs.
2. Make sure newly regulated IOCs are tested for as the new MCLs
become effective.
3. Apply for a waiver for IOCs before December 31, 1992.
If you exceed any of the MCLs
1. Take additional three check samples. The State will then use
the average of these four tests to see if you exceed the MCL.
The current exception is nitrate where only one check sample is
required.
2. Notify the State Agency and complete Public Notices as
required.
3. Work with the State Agency and/or your engineer to determine
the best way to reduce the level of the contaminate in your
water supply. Consider a variety of options. In addition to a
new treatment process, you may need to consider improving your
present treatment process, mix your contaminated supply with
another supply that does not exceed the MCL, or obtain a new
- source of water.
4. Request an exception from the S~ate Agency to allow the
community to continue to use the water supply while the
solutions to the MCL violation are being explored and any
needed financing is being planned.
5. Contact resource agencies listed in the back of this booklet
for help in planning and finding finances for your system
improvements.
22
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Additional Information
The rules for IOCs are contained in 40 CFR 141.11, 141.23, 141.62
State rules concerning IOCs are contained in .
(The blank line is provided for you to insert where your State's
rules are contained.)
Your State Agency can provide some additional information on any of
the individual IOCs.
National Safe Drinking Water Act Hotline - 1-800/426-4791.
EPA, Region IV Drinking Water Section - (404) 347-2912.
See separate pages of this booklet for information on Asbestos,
Fluoride, Lead and Copper.
(See the listing for the State Drinking Water contacts in the
Resource section)
23
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Maximum Contaminant Levels for IOC's
Contaminants MCL: Current
Arsenic
Barium
Cadmium
Chromium
Lead
Mercury
Selenium
Silver
Mitrace
Fluoride
Asbestos
Mi trite
0.05 mg/1
1 mg/1
0.010 mg/1
0.05 mg/1
0.05 mg/1
0.002 mg/1
0.01 mg/1
0.05 mg/1
10 mg/1
4 mg/1
N!
Combined Nitrate & Nitrite
MCL:Proposed
May 19 89
5 mg/1
0.005 mg/1
0.1 mg/1
0.002 mg/1
0.05 rng /1
Dropping MCL
10 mg/1
7 million fibers/1
1 mg/1
10 mg/1
MCL: Proposed July 199 0
Antimony 0.01/0.005 mg/1
Beryllium 0.0 01 mg/1
Nickel 0.1 mg/1
Sulface 400/500 mg/1
Thallium 0.002/0.001 mg/1
Cyanide 0.2 mg/1
24
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WATER PROGRAM
DRINKING WATER
ASBESTOS
Asbestos is an inorganic chemical that occurs naturally and has
been used in the manufacture of a number of products used in the
construction 'industry. Inhaled asbestos fibers have been
identified as causing cancer. Asbestos fibers ingested through
drinking water are suspected as a cancer causing agent. Asbestos
occurs naturally in a few water supplies and may occur by a
corrosive action on asbestos cement (AC) pipe contained in a water
system.
Do the Asbestos regulations apply to my community?
Yes, if you are a community or non-transient non-community (NTNC)
public water supply, the asbestos regulations apply to you. If
your State Agency has a waiver program, a vulnerability assessment
may be performed on your system. If you do not have asbestos likely
to occur in your water source and do not have asbestos cement pipe,
your system may be designated as non-vulnerable and be granted a
waiver. A PWS that is granted a waiver will not have to monitor
for asbestos. If your system does have AC pipe and your water is
non-corrosive you also may be classified as non-vulnerable and
eligible for a waiver. If a waiver is not granted, you will have
to monitor for asbestos once every nine years.
Timetable
An MCL for Asbestos was finalized as of January 30, 1991. If your
PWS is vulnerable for asbestos in the water, you will have to take
one sample within the first compliance period of each compliance
cycle (1993-1996) .
MCLs
The MCL for Asbestos is 7 million fibers/liter (longer than 10
micrometers). If your system is required to test for asbestos and
it has asbestos cement pipe the sample will be taken at the tap. If
your system has asbestos in the source water only then test at the
source. If your first test exceeds the MCL, take a repeat sample.
Compliance will be based on the average of the two. If the sample
is still over the MCL, then quarterly testing is required.
Action your community should be taking
Cooperate with the state in terms of performing initial
monitoring, applying for a waiver, and/or performing a
vulnerability assessment.
If your tests indicate levels of asbestos higher than the MCL, you
are in violation of the MCL. You should:
1. Test quarterly.
2. Notify the State Agency and complete Public Notices as
25
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required.
3 . Work with the State Agency and/or your engineer to determine if
asbestos is in your source water and/or is being leached from
your asbestos cement pipe. Plan a corrective action.
4. If asbestos is in your water source, it may be removed with
coagulation/filtration or direct and diatomite filtration.
Corrosion * control is used to reduce leaching of fibers from
asbestos cement pipe.
5. Contact resource agencies listed in the back of this booklet
for help in working out financial needs.
Other important considerations
EPA proposed (in 1986) under the Toxic Substance Control Act to ban
the manufacture of many asbestos products including asbestos cement
pipe. There is no plan to call for the removal of existing pipe,
but a water system may need to provide for corrosion control if
there is asbestos cement pipe in their system. More important may
be the need to plan for materials and procedures to repair existing
asbestos cement pipe in the future.
The greatest risk related to asbestos cement pipe is to the
maintenance worker who is repairing or otherwise coming into
contact with the pipe. Inhaling the dust (fibers) from cutting the
pipe is particularly hazardous. The Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) of the Department of Labor has published
rules concerning occupational exposure to asbestos. If you work
with asbestos cement pipe in your community, contact your state
Department of Labor for information on these rules.
Additional Information
The rules for Asbestos are contained in 40 CFR 1413 (b) (1).
State rules concerning Asbestos are contained in .
(The blank line is provided for you to insert where your State's
rules are contained.)
The rules of OSHA on Occupations Exposure to Asbestos are contained
in 29 CFR 1910 and 1926.
Your State Agency may be able to provide additional fact sheets on
Asbestos.
EPA Region IV Drinking Water Section - (404) 347-2913.
(See the listing for the State Drinking Water contacts in the
Resource section)
26
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WATER PROGRAM
DRINKING WATER
FLUORIDES
Fluorides are compounds that contain an ionic form of the element
fluorine.
Fluorides occur naturally in many water sources and are added in
the treatment process by many public water systems. Fluorides in
amounts between 1.0 and 1.5 parts per million (mg/1) have
beneficial effects in reducing tooth decay. Amounts above 4.0
parts per million may cause bone and skeletal changes. Amounts
greater than 2 mg/1 can cause discoloration of teeth.
Does the Fluoride regulation apply to my community?
Yes, all community public water systems must test for fluorine
every 3 years (ground water) or every year (surface water).
Timetable (for revision of regulations)
Testing for fluoride was required prior to the 1986 SDWA (Safe
Drinking Water Act) Amendments. The new regulacions on fluorides
continue the testing requirement of every three years for ground
water supplies and every year for surface water supplies. (Usually
done with the routine testing for other regulated inorganic
chemicals.) A new MCL was set in the final rules published on
April 2, 1986 and became effective in October 1987.
MCLs
MCL = 4.0 mg/1 (secondary standard suggested level = 2.0 mg/1)
If your tests show levels less than the 2.0 mg/1, your community
needs to do nothing about fluoride. Plan your next routine test m
one or three years.
Action your community should be taking
If your tests indicate fluoride levels between 2.0 and 4.0 mg/1,
you should check with your State Agency and/or engineer to see if
any changes in operations can be made to lower the fluoride level.
As this is not an MCL violation, immediate action is not required,
but planning should be undertaken to reduce levels below 2.0 mg/1.
Some of the options listed below may be necessary. The State
Agency may require more frequent sampling to monitor the fluoride
level. Public notice, with mandatory health effects language, is
required for levels between 2.0 and 4.0 mg/1.
If your tests indicate Fluoride levels above 4.0 mg/1, you are in
violation of the MCL, and you should:
1. Immediately submit three check samples to confirm the initial
test results.
2. Contact your State Agency. They will assist you to form the
27
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contents of a public notice you are required to give your
customers. (See Public Notification section.)
3. Work with your State Agency and/or engineer to plan for a
change in your- water supply and/or treatment system to lower'
the fluoride levels.
4. Seek help through other resource agencies (listed in the back
of this booklet) for help in finding financial resources if
needed to make water system changes.
5. Continue regular testing, as suggested or required by the state
agency to monitor fluoride levels while you are working on
solutions. Notify the public periodically, as required.
Solutions to fluoride MCL violations for very small water systems
usually involve finding and using a new wacer source or mixing
existing sources to reduce the fluoride level. Removing fluoride
through treatment is usually cost prohibitive for very small
systems.
Additional Information
The rule for fluoride is contained in 40CFR 141.11, 141.23, 141.62.
State rules concerning fluoride are contained in .
(The blank line is provided for you to insert where your State's
rules are contained.)
"Removal of Excess Fluoride in Dri-nking Water", "Fluoridation
Engineering Manual", EPA, available from the Safe Drinking Water
Hotline: 1-800/426-4791.
Your local dentist or state dental association will have
information available on the beneficial effects of correct amounts
of fluoride in your drinking water.
EPA Region IV Drinking Water Section - (404) 347-2913.
(See the listing for the State Drinking Water contacts in the
Resource section)
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WATER PROGRAM
DRINKING WATER
LEAD MATERIAL BAN
Lead is a metal which, in the past, has been used for water supply
pipe, joints in other pipe materials, and in alloy with other
metals as solder in joining copper pipe and in the manufacture of
water supply fixtures. Lead has been identified as a cause of
central and peripheral nervous system damage, kidney effects, and
can be highly toxic to infants and the developing fetus of pregnant
women. Lead in plumbing materials may be leached into the drinking
water by corrosive water.
Does the Lead Material Ban apply to my community?
Yes, the use of solder containing more than 0.2% lead in the
installation of new plumbing in customers' facilities that are
connected to the public water supply is banned. The law applies
only to plumbing which distributes drinking water and does not
require the removal of existing lead pipes or solder. Check with
your state for additional information.
Timetable
On October 28, 1987, specific public notice requirements were
published as a final rule. Contact your state or U.S. EPA for
additional information.
MCLs
There is no MCL involved in the Lead Material Ban. See section on
Lead and Copper for additional information.
Action your community should have completed
1. Complete a plumbing materials inventory in cooperation with
your State Agency.
2. Complete a set of tests (under the instructions of your State
Agency) to identify the corrosion related factors in your water
supply.
3. Publish a notice about the lead ban and the information on
corrosiveness for the information of your customers. (This was
to have been completed by June 19, 1988. In s'ome states, a
state-wide notice was published.)
4. Consider adopting an ordinance or rule prohibiting the use of
lead materials in any new plumbing that is connected to your
water system. In some cases, a statewide plumbing code has met
this requirement. If your community has adopted one of the
national plumbing codes, (or are part of a jurisdiction that
has adopted a code) , these codes have all been amended to
include the lead materials ban.
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Actions your community should now be taking
1. Inform customers involved in new construction or the
replacement of plumbing that the lead materials ban is in
effect for your water system. (Requiring a simple permit and
inspection of new plumbing is one way some communities carry
out this information requirement.)
2 . Make information available to your customers on the actions
they can take to reduce lead levels in the water they consume
in their own home.
3. If your water supply is very corrosive, contact your State
Agency and/or your community's engineer to plan for ways you
can reduce the corrosive impact of your water on the lead that
may be contained m customers' plumbing.
4. If you have lead pipe or fixtures in your distribution system,
consider replacement with non-lead materials. Leaded joints m
old cast iron or other pipe is not considered to leach
significant amounts of lead into the water. Replacement is not
required by the Lead Ban but may be required for systems that
continue to exceed the lead or copper action levels under the
Lead/Copper Rule.
Additional Information
The statute for the Lead Material Ban is contained .in the Safe
Drinking Water Act, section 1417(a)(1) & (2).
State rules concerning the Lead Materials Ban are contained m
(The blank line is provided for you to insert where your State's
rules are contained.)
"Lead and Your Drinking Water", EPA, available from the National
Safe Drinking Water Hotline: 1-800/426-4791.
EPA Region IV Drinking Water Section - (404) 347-2913.
30
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WATER PROGRAM
DRINKING WATER
LEAD AND COPPER
Lead and copper are inorganic chemicals that are occasionally found
in water supplies and are frequently leached out of plumbing in
water systems 'that have corrosive water. Lead can cause central
and peripheral nervous system damage, kidney effects and be highly
toxic to infants and in the developing fetus of pregnant women.
Copper» causes taste problems and stains porcelain and can also
cause stomach and intestinal distress.
Does the Lead and Copper Rule apply to my community?
Current rules require all community public water supplies to test
for lead every 3 years (ground water) or one year (surface water)
along with several other inorganic chemicals. The new rules will
include copper in the same testing frequency as lead.
Timetable
Testing and MCL compliance for lead has been in effect for a number
of years prior to the 1986 SDWA Amendments for community water
supplies. In June 1991, EPA published new rules that will
ultimately delete the MCL for lead but require additional sampling
to be done at customer taps. High levels of lead and copper at the
customer taps will trigger requirements of treatment of the water
supply to reduce corrosivity; public education should also be
provided to help customers reduce their intake of lead and copper.
Regulatory Schedule for Small Systems (<3,300 people)
Date Activities (system activities denoted by o)
May 1991
National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
(NPDWRs) for lead and copper promulgated
November 1992
Treatment technique requirements take effect
July 1993
o Begin tap water monitoring
January 1994
o Recommend optimal corrosion control
treatment by State1
January 1995
State requires system to conduct corrosion
control studies2
January 1996
State designates optimal corrosion control
treatment3
July 1996 o Complete corrosion control studies and
31
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recommend treatment to State2
January 1997 State designates optimal corrosion control
treatment2
January 1998 o Complete installation of corrosion control
treatment3
January 1999 o Complete installation of corrosion control
treatment2
o Complete follow-up monitoring and submit
results to State3,4
July 1999 State designates water quality parameters3
January 2000 o Complete follow-up monitoring and submits
results to State,,4
July 2000 State designates water quality parameters'
'Assumes system exceeds lead or copper action level during first
monitoring period.
2Small systems required to conduct comparative treatment studies.
JSmall systems which State specifies optimal treatment without
studies.
"Systems that continue to exceed action level begin 15-year lead
service line replacement program.
MCLs
Currently, if your test indicates lead levels above the current
MCL, you should:
1. Have three check samples tested to confirm test results.
2. Provide public notice of the MCL violation. Contact your state
for specific requirements.
Action levels per the new rule:
o The treatment technique requirements are triggered by
exceedances of the lead action -level of 0.015 mg/1 or the
copper action level of 1.3 mg/1 measured in the 90th
percentile.
o All public water systems are required to collect one sample for
lead and copper analysis from the following number of sites
during each six month monitoring period.
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System Size No. of Sampling Sites No. of Sampling Sites
(Population) (Initial Base Monitoring) (Reduced Monitoring)
501 to 3,300 20 10
101 to 500 10 5
<100 5 5
The above samples must be collected per monitoring period. One
monitoring period is equivalent to 6 months. There are two
monitoring periods per calendar year, January to June and July to
December.
Sample collection methods
o first flush tap water samples must stand motionless for at
least six hours before the samples are collected.
o One liter of water must be drawn from the cold water kitchen or
bathroom tap.
o Systems may collect samples or enlist
samples. Residents fill the container
system according to directions and leave
system to pick up.
Action your community should be taking
1 . Begin tap water
samples must be
monitoring program by
collected at high risk
residents to collect
supplied by the water
the container for the
July 1993. Tap water
locat ions:
homes with lead solder installed after 1982,
homes with lead pipes,
homes with lead service lines.
2. Work with your State Agency and/or engineer to consider changes
to your system to reduce lead levels to acceptable levels.
This may include finding a new water source with lower lead
levels of treating the present supply. Treatment technologies
used for lead removal include: Ion Exchange, Reverse Osmosis,
Lime Softening, Direct Filtration, and Coagulation/Filtration.
.Both capital and operation and maintenance costs vary greatly
for these different technologies.
3. Start planning now for ways to reduce the corrosivity of your
water. If you have a corrosive water supply (as determined by
tests done in the last 2 or 3 years) and if lead and copper
materials were identified in your system materials inventory
recently completed, contact your State Agency for additional
sources of assistance.
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Additional Information
The rule for lead and copper MCLs and treatment are contained on
40 CFR Part 1412 (1)
State rules concerning lead and copper are contained in .
(The blank line is provided for you to insert where your State's
rules are contained.)
EPA, Region IV Drinking Water Section - (404) 347-2913.
"Lead And Your Drinking Water", EPA, available from the National
Safe Drinking Water Hotline: 1-800/426-4791.
"Summary - Proposed Regulations For Lead In Drinking Water
Requirements For Waier Systems Serving Fewer Than 500 People",
available from EPA.
(See the listing for the State Drinking Water contacts in the
Resource section)
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WATER PROGRAM
DRINKING WATER
SYNTHETIC ORGANIC CHEMICALS (Noil-Volatile)
Synthetic organic chemicals (SOCs) are man-made compounds used for
a variety of industrial and agricultural purposes. For monitoring
purposes, the SOCs are divided into two groups - volatile synthetic
organic chemicals (VOCs) and others which are usually called
pesticides and PCBs. This page will discuss SOCs that are not
volatile. VOCs will be discussed on a separate page. Also see
page on disinfection by-products. SOC effects include damage to
the nervous system, kidneys and cancer risks.
Do the SOC regulations apply to my community?
The six currently regulated pesticides only apply to surface water
systems. The trihalomethane MCL's only apply to PWS > 10,000
population. At present, there are six regulated SOCs plus the
disinfection by-products called trihalomethanes.
Timetable (for revisions to regulations)
New regulations called Phase II were finalized January 30, 1991.
These regulations added 13 new SOCs and revised 5 SOCs. All
community and NTNC PWSs will be required to test for SOCs. For a
PWS that is vulnerable to SOCs, quarterly sampling is required
beginning in 1993, the first compliance period (1993-1996) in the
first compliance cycle (1993-2001). If there are no detects of
SOCs repeat sampling is: two quarterly samples beginning in the
second compliance period (1996) for PWSs greater than 3,300 people,
or one quarterly sample also beginning in the second compliance
period for PWSs with less than 3,300 people.
It is the PWSs responsibility to perform che vulnerability
assessment for SOCs. The vulnerability assessment is mailed to the
State with a request for a waiver. If a waiver is granted by the
State no monitoring is required for that compliance period. The
PWS must be granted a waiver before the year testing is required.
Every compliance period thereafter, the PWS must update the
vulnerability assessment and be granted a waiver. To test for all
the SOCs several methods are required, which add tremendously to
the cost. The PWS should perform the vulnerability assessment and
secure the waiver prior to the year monitoring is required to avoid
a significant cost to the system.
On July 25, 1990, additional proposed regulations called Phase V
add 15 non-volatile SOCs and 3 VOCs. These rules will be finalized
in March 1992 . The same procedures and monitoring requirement will
be used as with the May 1989 proposed rules. Because EPA is
required to add new contaminants to the list to be regulated on a
regular schedule, SOCs will probably be added to the list. The PWS
will want to perform a vulnerability assessment on these new SOCs
and request a waiver to eliminate monitoring.
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MCLs
A separate page is included to list current and proposed MCLs for
SOCs. Proposed MCLs will not be enforceable in very small systems
until 48 months after the final rules are published.
Action your community should be taking
1. Complete any sampling for currently regulated SOCs as required,
if your system uses surface water.
2. Cooperate with your State Agency to determine vulnerability of
your water supply to SOC contamination. If it is determined
that you are non-vulnerable (SOCs are not around to get in your
supply) you will not have to sample for SOCs.
3. If your system is vulnerable, cooperate with your State Agency
to get the first round of samples taken. Some states are doing
this for very small systems. If SOCs are not detected, you
will not have to sample until the second compliance period
(1996-1999).
Once the new SOC regulations are final, if your tests indicate
levels of a SOC higher than the MCL (averaged over the year), you
are in violation of the MCL. You should:
1. Continue quarterly sampling (at times of highest vulnerability,
i.e., after fertilizer application and a rain).
2. Notify the State Agency and complete public notices as
required.
3 . Request an exception from the State Agency to allow the
community to continue to use the water supply while the
solutions to the MCL violation are being explored and any
needed financing is being planned.
4. Work with the State Agency and/or your engineer to determine
how SOCs are getting into your water supply. If possible,
eliminate the source of contamination.
5. If you must treat your water supply to remove the SOCs, work
with your engineer to choose the best available technology for
treatment. Filtering through granular activated carbon is
suggested for most SOCs. Packed tower aeration and polymer
addition practices are used for some.
6. Contact resource agencies listed in the back of this booklet
for help in working out financial needs.
7. Changing water sources may be the most economical solution in
situations where available.
36
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Additional Information
The rules for SOCs are contained in 40 CFR 141.11, 141.23, 141.62.
State rules concerning SOCs are contained in .
(The blank line is provided for you to insert where your State's
rules are contained.)
"Pesticides in Drinking Water Wells", EPA. (Agricultural extension
service offices also have useful pamphlets on pesticides.)
National Safe Drinking Water Act Hotline, 1-800/426-4791.
EPA, Region IV Drinking Water Section - (404) 347-2913.
(See the listing for the State Drinking Water contacts in the
Resource section)
37
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MCLs for Synthetic Organic Chemicals (SOC's)
Contaminant
MCL: Proposed April 1989
MCL; Current
Alachlor
Aldricarb
Aldicarb Sulfoxide
Aldicarb Sulfcfrie
Atrizine
Carbofuran
Chlord^ne
2, 4-D
Heptachior
Heptachlor Epoxide
Lindane
Me t noxy c h1o r
PCB' s
Pentachlorophenol
Toxaphene
2,4,5-TP (SILVEX)
Acrylamide
Epichlorohydrin
0.002 mg/1
0.01 mg/1
0.01 mg/1
0.04 mg/1
0.003 mg/1
0.04 mg/1
0.002 mg/1
0.07 mg/1
0.0 004 mg/1
0.0 002 mg/1
0.0002 mg/1
0.4 mg/1
0.0005 mg/1
0.2 mg/1
0.005 mg/1
0.05 mg/1
Treatment Technique
Treatment Technique
0.1 mg/1
0.004 mg/1
0.1 mg/1
0.0 05 mg/1
0.01 mg/1
Endrin
Dalapon
Diquat
Endothall
Glyphosate
Di (Ethylehexy1) Adipate
2,3,7,8-TCDD(Dioxin)
Hexachlorocyclopentadiene
Oxyamly (Vydate)
Simazine
PAH's [Benzo(a)pyrene]
Hexachlorobenzene
Di(ethylhexy1) Phythalate
Pichloram
Dinoseb
MCL: Proposed July 1990
0.002 mg/1
0.2 mg/1
0.02 mg/1
0.1 mg/1
0.7 mg/1
0.5 mg/1
5 x 10 8 mg/1
0.05 mg/1
0.2 mg/1
0.001 mg/1
.0002 mg/1
.0 01 mg/1
0 04 mg/1
0.002 mg/1
0
0
0
0
5 mg/1
0.007 mg/1
38
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WATER PROGRAM
DRINKING WATER
VOLATILE ORGANIC CHEMICALS
Volatile Synthetic Organic Chemicals (VOCs) are man-made compounds
used for a variety of industrial and manufacturing purposes. VOCs
tend to be in "a gaseous form under conditions that may occur in a
water system and then separate from the water supply. VOCs have
various effects on the liver, kidneys, nervous system and some pose
a cancer risk.
Do the VOC regulations apply to my community?
Yes, at present, there are eight regulated VOCs. These regulations
became final in July 1987, and require very small water systems to
begin monitoring by January 1, 1991. Initial monitoring is done by
one sample every three months for one year. States can reduce this
to one sample for groundwater systems which are not vulnerable.
All community and NTNC public water systems must monitor for
regulated VOCs in their water supply. If VOCs are not detected,
your system must monitor again beginning in 1993. If VOCs are
detected, monitoring must be done quarterly.
Timetable (for revisions of regulations)
New regulations called Phase II proposed on May 22, 1989 add 10
VOCs. These rules are final as of January 30, 1991 and will
require quarterly monitoring beginning in January 1993. More new
regulations proposed on July 25, 1990 will add three more VOCs.
Monitoring for these are proposed to begin by January 1, 1996.
If a system is non-vulnerable a system may be granted a waiver
which will reduce monitoring. If you have a ground water source,
a waiver will reduce sampling to once every 6 years. If you have
a surface water source, and you are non-vulnerable, testing is done
at state discretion. A PWS vulnerable to VOCs must test annually
beginning in 1994, after the 4 quarterly samples in 1993. The
state may grandfather or use the data taken previously and apply it
to the critical monitoring. This grandfathering of data will allow
the replacement of the four quarterly samples due in 1993 for one
sample.
Because EPA is required to add new contaminants to the list to be
regulated on a regular schedule, some VOCs may be added to the list
from year to year. Little change should occur to the very small
system because all VOCs are tested from the same sample and with
little additional cost.
MCLs
A separate page is included to list current and proposed MCLs for
VOCs .
3 9
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Action your community should be taking
1. Complete any sampling for the first round of four quarterly
samples for currently regulated VOCs as required. (In some
states the state agency is helping small systems with VOC
sampling).
2. Test for VOCs again beginning January 1, 1993. Grandfather old
data.
3 . Let your customers know through a newsletter or poster when you
find that your water is free of VOC contaminates (and other
contaminates that you don't have to worry about as well).
4. Apply for a waiver to reduce monitoring, before December 31,
1992 .
EPA's revised drinking water regulations have been published in
phases. Phase I set monitoring requirements and MCLs for 8 VOCs
and required one-time monitoring for up to 51 other "unregulated"
VOCs (listed in 3 lists). Phase I became effective for small PWSs
(<3,300 population) m January 1991. Phase II has now set MCLs and
routine monitoring requirements for 12 of the 51 "unregulateds" and
these requirements go into effect in July 1392.
All PWSs must comply with all the monitoring requirements and MCLs.
The only exception is for PWSs serving fewer than 150 service
connections. Instead of collecting samples for the "unregulateds"
monitoring, PWSs serving fewer than 150 connections may simply send
a letter to the State regulatory agency stating that the system is
available for sampling. The catch here is zhe overlap of 12 VOCs
between Phase I and Phase II.
If a PWS serving fewer than 150 connections performs the monitoring
of the Phase I unregulateds, then the data for the 12 that become
regulated in Phase II can be "grandfathered" in for compliance with
the MCLs. If not, then the PWS will have to monitor the 12 VOCs
quarterly for 4 quarters when Phase II beccmes effective. (Doing
one round of Phase I "unregulateds" m 1991 will save having to do
4 analyses after July 1992 . )
In summary, regardless of State policy, all PWSs should test for
lists 1 and 3 of the unregulated contaminants to save money in
monitoring costs in the future. Testing list 1 will cover the
future Phase II requirement testing; testing list 3 will cover the
future Phase V requirements.
If your tests indicate levels of a VOC higher than the MCL
(averaged over the year) , you are in violation of the MCL. You
should:
1. Continue quarterly sampling (at times of highest
vulnerability).
2. Notify the State Agency and complete Public Notices as
required.
3. Request an exception from the State Agency to allow the
40
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community to continue to use the water supply while the
solutions to the MCL violation are being explored and any
needed financing is being planned.
4. Work with the State Agency and/or your engineer to determine
how VOCs are getting into your water supply. If possible,
eliminate the source of contamination.
5. If you must treat your water supply to remove the VOC, work
with your engineer to choose the best available technology for
treatment. Filtering through Granular Activated Carbon and
Packed Tower Aeration are common treatments for most VOC
removal.
6. Contact resource agencies listed in the back of this booklet
for help in working out financial needs.
7. Consider changing the source of your water supply as one
option. This may be the most economical solution when
available.
Additional Information
The rules for VOC are contained in 40 CFR 141.11, 141.23, 141.62.
State rules concerning VOCs are contained in .
(The blank line is provided for you to insert where your State's
rules are contained.)
Your State Agency will be able to provide additional fact sheets on
VOCs .
National Safe Drinking Water Act Hotline, 1-800/426-4791.
EPA, Region IV Drinking Water Section - (404) 347-2913.
(See the listing for the State Drinking Water contacts in the
Resource section)
41
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I - Phase I
A. Regulated Volatile Organic Chemicals Currently in Effect
Contaminant MCL: Final
Trichloroethylene (TCE) 0.005 mg/1
Carbon Tetrachloride 0.005 mg/1
Vinyl Chloride 0.002 mg/1
1,2 Dichloroethane 0.005 mg/1
Benzene 0.005 mg/1
Para-dichlorobenzene 0.075 mg/1
1,1-Dichlorehtylene 0.007 mg/1
1,1,1 Trichloroethane 0.20 mg/1
B. Unregulated Contaminants
List 1: Monitoring Required
For All Systems
Bromobenzene
Bromodichloromethane
Bromoform
Bromomethane
Chlorobenzene
Chlorodibromomethane
Chloroethane
Chloroform
Chioromethane
o-Chlorotoluene
p-Chlorotoluene
Dibromomethane
m-Dichlorobenzene
Discretion
o-Dichlorobenzene
trans-1,2-Dichloroethylene
cis-1,2-Dichloroethylene
Dichloromethane
1,1-Dichloroethane
1.1-Dichloropropane
1.2-Dichloropropane
1.3-Dichloropropane
1,3-Dichloropropene
2,2-Dichloropropane
Ethylbenzene
Styrene
1.1.2-Trichloroethane
1,1,1,2-Tetrachloroethane
1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane
Tetrachloroethylene
1.2.3-Trichloropropane
Toluene
p-Xylene
o-Xylene
m-Xylene
List 2: Monitoring Required
for Vulnerable Systems
Ethylene dibromide (E D B)
1,2-Dibromo-3-Chloropropane
(D B C P)
List 3 : Monitoring Required
at the State ' s
Bromochloromethane
n-Bu~y1benzene
Dichlorodi fluoromethane
Fluorotrichloromethane
Hexachlorobutadiene
Isopropylbenzene
p-Isopropy1toluene
Napthalene
n-Propylbenzene
sec-Butylbenzene
tert-Butylbenzene
1.2.3-Trichlorobenzene
1.2.4-Trichlorobenzene*
1,2, 4-Triraethylbenzene
1.3.5-Trimethy1benzene
*To be regulated in Phase V
42
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II. Phase II
Regulated VOCs Effective July 1992
Contaminant MCL; Final
cis-1,2-Dichloroethlene 0.07 mg/1
1,2-Dichloropropane 0.005 mg/1
Ethylbenzene 0.7 mg/1
Monochlorobenzene 0.1 mg/1
0-Dichlorobenzene 0.6 mg/1
Styrene 0.1 mg/1
Tetracnloroethylene 0.005 mg/1
Toluene 1.0 mg/1
trans-1,2-Dichloroethylene 0.1 mg/1
Xylenes (total) 10 mg/1
III. Phase V
Regulated VOCs
MCL: Final
Dichloromethane
(Methylene Chloride) 0.005 mg/1
1,1,2-Trichloroethane 0.005 mg/1
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene 0.009 mg/1
Monitoring begins January 1, 1996. For additional information,
contact your State office.
43
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WATER PROGRAM
DRINKING WATER
COLIFORM MONITORING
Bacteria from sewage and animal wastes have presented the most
frequent and immediate health risks to public water supplies over
the years. Co'liform bacteria, specifically the presence of fecal
and E. coli bacteria, are used as the best and most easily tested
for indicator of potentially harmful bacteria in the water.
Does the Coliform Monitoring rule apply to my community?
Yes, all community public water systems must submit samples for
coliform bacteria testing on a regular monthly basis. Failure to
submit samples, meet the MCL, and report non-compliance are all
violations of the rule.
Timetable
Your community has been required to test fcr coliform bacteria for
many years. All community PWS have had tc do other testing. The
1986 amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act caused new rules to
be published that change some of the procedures for testing, change
the MCL, and require certain public notification related to
coliform monitoring. These rules were published in final form on
June 29, 1989, and became effective December 31, 1990. Most states
have already implemented them.
MCLs
The MCL is based on the presence or absence of total coliforms in
a sample (the old MCL was based on an estimate of coliform
density) . A very small water system may have no more than one
coliform-positive sample per month.
Monitoring Requirements
You are required to submit one routine sample per month for your
system. (Carefully follow procedures for sampling provided by your
testing laboratory or the State Agency). Samples are to be from
different customer taps from month to month. If the sample tests
positive for total coliforms, you must (within 24 hours of
notification of the result) collect 4 repeat samples. These repeat
samples must be collected within 5 service connections of the
original sample with at least one being at the original location,
at least one upstream and at least one downstream. If total
coliforms are detected in any repeat sample, your water system is
in violation of the MCL and you must notify the State Agency no
later than the end of the next business day that you learned of the
violation.
If fecal coliforms or E. coli are identified in a sample in a month
that the water system violates the MCL, it becomes an acute
violation and you must notify the State Agency the same day you
receive the results. The month following a violation of the total
coliform MCL you must collect 5 routine samples. The State Agency
44
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may choose to require more than one routine sample per month.
A sanitary survey of your system is required at least every five
years (usually done by the State Agency). The initial survey must
be completed by June 29, 1994. Without the sanitary survey, you
would have to collect five routine samples every month.
Action your community should be taking
If your system is not having total coliform positive tests:
1. Coptinue to submit regular samples and review results.
2. Maintain a good operation and maintenance program for your
water system including regular line flushing at fire hydrants
and on dead ends.
If your system has a coliform-positive sample result:
1. Immediately take and process your repeat samples.
2. Carefully review your sample taking procedures to be sure you
are not accidentally contaminating the samples.
3. Call your State Agency and ask for help to locate any possible
sources of contamination.
4. Follow the State Agency's direction in issuing public notices
and any state emergency measures that may be required.
5. Correct any problems causing- contamination immediately.
Contact one of the resource agencies listed in the back of this
booklet if you need technical support or help in financing.
Additional Information
The rule for coliform monitoring is primarily contained in 40 CFR
141.21 & 141.63, and public notice rules in 40 CFR 141.32.
State rules concerning coliform monitoring are contained in
(The blank line is provided for you to insert where your State's
rules are contained.)
EPA and your State Agency have several information sheets and
pamphlets on sampling and testing for coliform bacteria. Contact
your State Agency for more information.
45
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You may also contact the National Safe Drinking Water Act Hotline
at 1-800/426-4791.
EPA Region IV Drinking Water Section - (404) 347-2913.
(See the listing for the State Drinking Water contacts in the
Resource section)
46
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WATER PROGRAM
DRINKING WATER
SURFACE WATER TREATMENT RULE
Does the Surface Water Treatment Rule apply to my community?
Yes, it applies to all Public Water Supply Systems (community and
non-community) using a surface water source (i.e. water open to the
atmosphere and subject to surface runoff) or a groundwater source
under the direct influence of surface water.
Timetable
Compliance timetables under the Surface 'Water Treatment Rule are as
follows :
State Regulations
1. State regulations necessary' to implement the rule must
be in place by December 30, 1990.
2. States must adopt by December 30, 1990, procedures for
determining whether a groundwater source is under the
direct influence of surface water.
5'. Surface water systems currently- using filtration and
disinfect ion
1. The existing interim turbidity standard (1 ntu)
continues m effect until June 29, 1993.
2. New filtration criteria, disinfection criteria, and
monitoring and reporting requirements must be met
beginning June 29, 1993.
C. Surface water systems currently using disinfection only
1. The existing interim turbidity standard (1 ntu)
continues m effect until December 30, 1991, (except as
noted in the following item 5).
2. PWSs are required to begin recording new monitoring and
reporting requirements for unfiltered systems starting
December 30, 1990. PWSs must meet these new monitoring
and reporting requirements starting January 1, 1992.
:tates must Get ermine oeiore uecemrer
3 r.
wh i (
If filtration is required, it must ;:e installed before
June 29, 1993 or 18 months alter : fails to meet the
avoidance enteric:.
if the state determines before December 30, 1991, thct
an unfiltered system must. fiiter, the system must comply
the c11no interim turlio'tv "tandaro until June
-------
29, 1993, or until filtration is installed, whichever is
later.
D. Surface water systems currently using no treatment
Disinfection must be installed, and the compliance deadlines
under the preceding section C must be met.
E. Systems using a groundwater source
For each system using a groundwater source, the state must
^cvdmiric vvnetii^i Lhau oOui j-S under trie gi i cCL influence c~
surface water according to the following deadlines:
Community water systems - June 29, 1994
Non-community water systems - June 29, 1999
If a PWS is deemed groundwater under the influence (GWUI) of
surface water it must begin sampling for the avoidance criteria
withir. 6 months. The PWS must begin meeting the avoidance criteria
13 months after the determination. Failure to meet the avoidance
criteria after 18 months may result m that PWS having to install
filters. (None: In some States, if a PWS is deemed GWUI they muse
install filters.) Check with your State as to their policy m
using che avoidance criteria to avoid installing filtration.
Action my community should be taking
Public Water Supply must be operated by personnel that meet
qualifications specified by the State or EPA. The -water purveyor is
required to monitor the water system,, by sampling and testing the
water, for compliance to the MCLs listed for the public water
system category (community, non-communitv, etc).
Treatment must remove or inactivate at least 99.9% of Giardia
lamblia cysts and 99.99% of viruses; all systems must disinfect,
and might be required to filter if certain water quality and
site-specific criteria are not met; criteria must be met for
determining if treatment (turbidity removal, disinfection) is
adequate for filtered systems.
Systems using surface water must send in reports to the State
documenting compliance with treatment and monitoring requirements.
The EPA must be informed, as well as water users through public
notification, of any violations.
Additional Information
The rules for surface water treatment are contained in 40 CFR
141 .71 Co) .
EPA's "Guidance Manual for Compliance with the Filtration and
Disinfection Requirements for Public Water Systems Using Surface
Water." Call the Safe Drinking Water Act Hctlme: 1-800/426-4791.
EPA, Region IV Drinking Water Section - (404) 347-2913.
November issue of Ooflow, AWWA newsletter to operators.
4 8
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Contact your State Drinking Water Agency for additional information
about requirements for certain reporting requirements.
(See the listing for the State Drinking Water contacts in Resource
section)
49
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WATER PROGRAM
DRINKING WATER
RADIONUCLIDES
Radionuclides are radioactive particles that occur naturally in
areas of uranium and radium deposits and in waste from man made
nuclear reactive processes. Radionuclides, even in very small
concentrations, pose a cancer risk.
Does the Radionuclides regulation apply to my community?
Yes, radionuclides have been regulated since 1976 with MCLs
currently set for four types. All community public water systems
must test for radionuclides every four years.
Timetable (for revision of regulation)
Proposed regulations were published in June 1991 that will add MCLs
for two additional radionuclides (Radon ar.d Uranium) . The Radon
level will be set low because it is easily removed by aeration and
may raise the MCL for Radium 226 & 228. Final new rules may be
published in late 1993. Systems will begin to monitor under the
new radionuclide rules in 1996. Until then, continue to monitor
under the old rules.
MCLs
The following are current MCLs for radionuclides and the levels
that are proposed. The units af measure are peculiar to
radioactivity and represent very small quantities.
Current MCL
MCL Likely to
be Proposed
Gross Alpha Particle Activity
Beta Particle & Photon Activity
Combined Radium - 226 & 228
Radium - 22 6
Radium - 228
Uranium
Radon
15 pCi/1
4 mrem/yr
5 pCi/1
15 pCi/1
4 mrem/yr
2 0 pCi/1
2 0 pCi/1
20 ug/1
300 pCi/1
Action your community should be taking
Submit samples as required for routine testing. The monitoring
process requires one sample every three months for one year (4
samples in total). Unless test results indicate radionuclide
values above or near the MCL, the test is repeated only every 4
years. Mark your calendar a few months prior to the 4 year time
limit to remind yourself to test.
Compliance with the MCL is based on an average of the four
quarterly samples.
50
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If your tests indicate levels of radionuclides higher than the MCL,
you should:
1. Ask the State Agency if you should resample to confirm the test
results. The State may also require you to continue quarterly
sampling until the MCL level is met.
2. Follow your State Agency's instructions regarding when and what
type of public notice you need to give.
3. Request an exemption from
corrrrunity ^o cone inuc co uss
lo the MCL violation are
financing is being planned.
the State Agency to allow the
the water supply while solutions
being explored and any needed
4. Start working with your State Agency and/or engineer to
consider options to eliminate the radionuclides from your
system. In nearly all very small community v/ater systems,
finding a different source of -water supply is the most
economical solution to a radionuclide problem. Radon can be
removed 'with aeration or granular activated charcoal. Any
treatment may produce radioactive wastes that will be difficult
to dispose of .
5. Agencies listed m the Resource section of this booklet may be
able to help you m working with the State Agency, arranging
for financing, and including your community in solving your
violation problem.
o. Remember that exposure to radionuclides at levels found in
water is a risk over long term exposure. It is not an acute
risk for short periods of time. Don't panic or start
unrealistic fears. Do proceed to work out a reasonable and
affordable solution to your drinking water supply.
Additional Information
The rule for radionuclides is contained in 40 CFR 141.11, 141.23,
141.62 .
State rules concerning radionuclides are contained in
(The blank line is provided for you to insert where your State's
rules are contained.)
"A Study of Possible Economical Ways of Removing Radium From
Drinking Water" is available from EPA. Call the Safe Drinking Water
Hotline at 1-800/426-4791.
National Safe Drinking Water Act Hotline: 1 -800/426-47SI .
-------
SPA, Region I7 Drinking Water Section - (404) 347-2913.
EPA's "Radon in Drinking Water" pamphlet
(See the listing for the State Drinking Water contacts in Resource
section)
52
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WATER PROGRAM
DRINKING WATER
DISINFECTION AND DISINFECTION BY-PRODUCTS
Disinfectants (such as chlorine) are the primary defense against
diseases caused by microbiological contaminants in public water
systems. More than 90% of surface water supply systems disinfect
their wacer while less than half of the ground water supplies are
disinfected. Although disinfection is the single most important
treatment technique in use in public wacer supplies, tne
disinfectants themselves can react with organic materials in water
supplies to form disinfection by-products (DBPsi which may prove to
contaminate the water with compounds that increase cancer risk.
Do the Disinfection and Disinfection By-products regulations apply
to my community?
Yes, ail community and MTMC public water systems will be required
to disinfect their -water, with allowance for variances if the water
comes from sources that are determined not to be at risk from
microbiological contamination. Monitoring for D3Ps will be limited
to systems that are determined vulnerable to their development.
Timetable
Surface water supplies are now covered by final rules on filtration
and disinfection that were published on June 29, 1989. These rules
require disinfection of all surface water supplies and become
effective over the next three years as determined by state
schedules. Rules for general disinfection of all drinking water
supplies are expected to be proposed in August 1993 and will
include MCLs for a number of disinfectants and disinfection
by-products. At present, three disinfection by-products
(trihalomethan.es) are regulated but only m community supplies of
10,000 or greater population.
MCLs
Proposed MCLs have not yet been circulated. The MCL for total
trihalomethanes is 0.1 mg/1.
Action your community should be taking
1. If your water supply is surface water, contact your State
Agency to determine your schedule for compliance with the
filtration and disinfection rules.
2. If your water supply is ground water and you are now adding a
disinfectant, start regular disinfectant residual tests (weekly
or monthly) at some consumer taps to determine how much
disinfection is available at the "end-of-the-line" in your
system. This will help you plan for modifications in your
disinfection to meet any new standards that are required.
3. If your water supply is groundwater and you are not adding a
disinfectant now, the following steps may help m your
planning:
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a. Check your coliform bacteria tests over the past three
or four years. A history with some coliform positive
tests are l'ikely to require you to disinfect.
b. If you have no coliform positive tests, keep it that way
by following a proper sampling procedure and through
good maintenance and operation of your water supply and
distribution systems. You may be able to ask for an
exemption to the new disinfection rule.
c. Look at and price different equipment for disinfection.
For most very small systems, chlorination provided
through gas, liquid solutions or granular compounds are
the methods used. Costs vary and may not be out of reach
for your community. Your State Agency, engineer or an
equipment supply firm can help you with this
information.
d. Visit neighboring communities that are disinfecting and
see how they do it and what it costs.
e. Start public information/education efforts to help your
customers understand the reasons and advantages of
protecting your water supply from contamination through
disinfection. Resource agencies listed in the back of
this booklet may be able to help you with this.
Additional Information
The rules for Disinfectants and DBPs--are in 40 CFR 1412 (b) (8) .
State rules concerning Disinfectants and DBPs are contained in
(The blank line is provided for you to insert where your State's
rules are contained.)
"Protecting Our Drinking Water From Microbes", .EPA, available by
calling the Drinking Water Hotline 1-800/426-4791.
Your State Agency has materials available, which describe the
proper installation and use of disinfection equipment in small
systems.
EPA, Region IV Drinking Water Section - (404) 347-2913.
(See the listing for the State Drinking Water contacts in Resource
section)
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WATER PROGRAM
DRINKING WATER
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION
With the enactment of the Safe Drinking Water Act, Congress
requires that public drinking water systems notify their customers
when drinking-water standards are violated. The purpose of public
notification is to inform consumers of any potential adverse health
effects and to describe what steps consumers can take to minimize
the impact. It should also educate the consumer about the needs of
the public water system to assure the delivery of safe drinking
water.
Do the Public Notification rules apply to my community?
Yes, the Safe Drinking Water Act requires owners (or operators) of
all community public drinking water systems to notify the persons
they serve if certain violations of the National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations or certain other specified events occur.
Timetable
Public Notification rules are now in effect for all contaminants
that your community is required to monitor. As new contaminants
are regulated and monitoring is required in your community, you are
also required to give public notification when violations occur.
This information describes the Federal Rules. Your State may add
requirements for your area.
Types of violations requiring Public Notification
There are six violations or events that require Public
Notification:
1. Failure to comply with an applicable maximum contaminant level
(MCL)
2. Failure to comply with a prescribed treatment technique
3. Failure to perform water quality monitoring (testing) as
required by the regulations
4. Failure to comply with testing procedures as prescribed by a
National Primary Drinking Water Regulation
5. Issuance of a variance or an exemption
6. Failure to comply with the requirements of any schedule that
has been set under a variance or exemption
Notification Procedures
The method, timing and frequency of notifying the public varies
based on the "level" of the violation and the availability of
public communication media.
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There are two "levels" of violation. Tier 1 violations include
numbers 1, 2 and 6 listed above, namely, failure to comply with an
MCL; failure to comply with a treatment technique; failure to
comply with a schedule prescribed under a variance or exemption.
Tier 2 violations are less serious and have simpler notification
requirements. They include numbers 3, 4 and 5 listed above,
namely, failure to comply with monitoring requirements; failure to
comply with testing procedures; operating under a variance or
exemption.
Tier 1 violations are subdivided into "acute" and "non-acute"
violations. "Acute" risks are those that involve an immediate risk
to human health. These are violations specified by the State
Agency and presently must include violations of the MCL for nitrate
and/or nitrite, violations of the MCL for total coliforms when
fecal coliforms or E. coli are present, and occurrences of a
waterborne disease outbreak m an unfiltered surface water system.
Action your community should take
If you are informed of test results that indicate you are in
violation of an MCL or you are informed of another violation,
immediately contact your state agency and notify them of the
violation and ask their direction in proceeding with public
notification. (Note: the State Agency may declare a sample invalid
or require a check sample before confirming a violation and thereby
ask you to delay public notification.)
Methods of Notification
Communities with a daily (or weekly) newspaper of general
circulation (received by most households) in the community:
Tier 1 violations
1. Provide notice within 14 days of the violation through the
newspaper, AND
2. Provide notice by direct mail or hand delivery within 45 days
of the violation. Repeat this notice every three months as
long as the violation continues, AND
3. For ACUTE VIOLATIONS ONLY - Deliver notice to the principal
television and radio station serving the area within 72 hours
following the violation.
Tier 2 violations
1. Provide notice within three months of the violation through the
newspaper, AND
2. Provide notice by mail or hand delivery within three months of
the initial notice. Repeat this notice every three months as
long as the violation continues.
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Methods of Notification
Communities without a newspaper:
Tier 1 violations
1. For ACUTE VIOLATIONS ONLY - Provide notice by hand delivery or
by posting within 72 hours of the violation, AND
2. For non-acute violations - Provide notice by hand delivery or
by posting within 14 days of the violation, AND
3. Repeat the notice by hand delivery every three months or by
continuous posting for the duration of the violation.
Tier 2 violations
1. Provide nocice by hand delivery or by posting within three
months of the violation. Repeat the notice by hand delivery
every three months or by continuous posting for the duration of
the violation.
Information that must be included in the Public Notice:
I. Must provide a clear and readily understandable explanation of
the violation
2 . Must include information about any potential adverse health
ef fects
3. Must contain information about the population at risk
4 . Must contain information about the steps being taken to correct
the problem
5. Must contain information about the necessity of seeking
alternative water supplies, if any
6. Must include any preventive measures that should be taken until
the violation is corrected
7. Must be clear and conspicuous
8. Must not contain unduly technical language
9. Must not contain unduly small print
10. Must not create problems that frustrate the purpose of the
public notification
II. Must include a phone number of the owner, operator, or
someone to contact at the public water system as a source of
additional information
12. Where appropriate, notices must be multi-lingual
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Additional Information
The rules for Public Notification are contained in 40 CFR 141, 142,
and 143.
State rules concerning Public Notification are contained in
(The blank line is provided for you to insert where your State's
rules are contained.)
"General Public Notification for Public Water Systems", EPA.
Available by calling the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at
1-800/426-4791 for a free copy. The chart on the following page is
taken from this manual.
EPA Region IV Drinking Water Section - (404) 347-2913.
(See the listing for the State Drinking Water contacts in Resource
section)
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Checklist oi Public Notification Requirements
for
Community Water Systems
Part A: Determine your notification requirements for each
violation by circling all that apply. Read footnotes carefully.
Public Notification Requirements
Violation
Cat'cjory
Mandatory
HeaIth
E f feel's
I nf nrmation
Required
(All TUS3)
Notice of
New BiI Iinq
Units "
(CHSr. Only)
fa?'
® of
Time Trarne Uithin Ulnch Notice Must be Given (Box Indicate?
Time Fra^e Tor Initial Notice and is followed bu the Frequency of
repeat notice until the violation is resolved)
v i o I ation
72
hours
7
daus
14
days
45
days
3 Annual
months
TIER l
I *Cl
Treatment
T®chnique
Var i ance ot
Lxemption
Schedule
V i o I at i on
Communitu
Acute Violation:
jTV an£ D5dio [No Repea:
Neusraper'
No Pepeat
Ma i 1 Of Hand Del
veru£
Non Acute Violations
Neu-.paner
Marl or Hand Deliveru'-
Quarterlu Peoeat
No Repeat
Quarterly Repeat
T ICR
Men »tor\nqJ
T?"tinq
^r ocedure
Variance or
L *empti on
! srucd
No
No
Neu:-pooer
No
No
Co^un i tu
Quarter It)
Repeat by
Hoi I or
^nnd
Delivery
Footnotes
^f no newspaper of general circulation is available, posting or
hand delivery is required as specified in ...
^May be waived in accordance with ..
^Less frequent notice (but no less than annual) t= to be
required as in. . .
59
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Part B: Check each item below that appears in the notice .you
have prepared. When all appropriate items have been checked,
your notice should meet the requirements established for General
Public Notification.
Notice Contents
o The notice provides a clear and readily understandable explanation of the
1. violation
2. potential adverse health effects (mandatory health effects language)
3. population
steps the system is taking to correct the violation
5'. necessity of seeking alternative water supplies (if any)
6. preventive measures the consumer should take until tlie violation is corrected
The notice
7. is clear and conspicuous in design !
8. contains non-technical language I
i
|
9. uses print that is easily read j
i
• 10. content creates no problems that would frustrate the purpose of public notification
11. contains the telephone number of the owier, operator, or designee of tile public water
system as a source of additional infomntion
12. contains multi-lingual information, where appropriate
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WATER PROGRAMS
DRINKING WATER
Regulatory Development Schedule
An important part of planning is knowing the specific regulations
that will affect your particular community and its public water
system(s), arid further, knowing when these regulations will be in
effect and enforced in your community. Following is the most
recent schedule for the development of the new regulations.
k
Rule
Status
Effective
Fluoride
Final
10/87
Lead Ban (SDWA 1417)
Final
06/86
Phase I Volatile Organics
Final
01/89
Public Notification
Final
04/89
Surface Water Treatment Rule
Final
12/90
Total Coliform Rule
Final
12/90
Phase II IOCs and SOCs
Final
07/92
Lead/Copper
Final
01/92
Phase V IOCs and SOCs
Proposed
1993
Phase III Radionuclides
Proposed
1994
Disinfection/Disinfection By-Products
TBP
1996
Additional List Contaminants
TBP
1997
All dates after 1992 are estimated
TBP means To Be Proposed
IOC means Inorganic Chemicals -
SOC means Synthetic Organic Chemicals
Some effective dates are phased-in by system size (see
below)
EPA Rules are generally effective 18 months after being
finalized
An Example of a Special Schedule for Small Systems
Not all systems are required to comply with all the regulations
upon the effective date. Some of the requirements are "phased" in
over time depending on the size of the system, e.g., the monitoring
requirements for VOCs and unregulated contaminants. The following
chart displays the actual schedule that smaller systems must
follow, unless otherwise informed by the state.
Number of persons Monitoring to
served begin by
Over 10,000 January 1, 1988
3,300 to 10,000 January 1, 1989
Less than 3,300 January 1, 1991
For additional information call EPA Region IV Drinking Water
Section - (404) 347-2913.
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WATER PROGRAMS
WELLHEAD PROTECTION PROGRAM
The 1986 Amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) call upon
each State to develop a Wellhead Protection (WHP) Program. This
legislation established a nation-wide program to encourage States
to develop systematic and comprehensive programs within their
jurisdictions to protect public water supply (PWS) wells and
wellfields from contamination.
The spatute specifies that all States will participate. However,
the EPA has no authority to establish a WHP Program if a State
chooses to forego action on its own. There are no sanctions
against States that do not participate. States are encouraged to
participate and to exercise individual discretion in developing
methods or protecting ground water used for drinking water.
Under SDWA, Section 1428, each State must develop a WHP Program
that consists of several elements. At a minimum, each State's WHP
Program must:
1. Specify roles and duties of State agencies, local
government entities, and public water suppliers, 'with
respect to WHP Programs;
2. Delineate the wellhead protection area (WHPA) for each
wellhead;
3. Identify sources of contaminants within each WHPA;
4. Develop management approaches to protect the water supply
within WHPAs from such contaminants;
5. Develop contingency plans for each public water supply
system to respond to well or wellfield contamination;
6. Site new wells properly to maximize yield and minimize
potential contamination; and
7. Ensure public participation.
Action your community should be taking
The Wellhead Protection Program requires the participation of all
levels of government. The Federal Government is responsible for
approving State Wellhead Protection Programs and for providing
technical support to State and local governments. States must
develop and implement Wellhead Protection Programs that meet the
requirements of the SDWA Amendments. While the responsibilities of
local governments depend upon the particular requirements of their
State's Wellhead Protection Program, localities are often m the
best position to implement measures to ensure that wellhead areas
are properly protected from contamination.
Local governments typically implement zoning decisions, develop
land-use plans, oversee building and fire codes, implement health
requirements, supply water and sewer services, and enforce police
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powers. Each of these local powers may be used to protect the
quality of local aquifers.
Local cities and counties are also often the innovators in
developing wellhead protection programs by applying combinations of
management techniques (e.g., zoning and source prohibitions) to
meet unique local conditions. Localities often protect groundwater
as part of larger projects, such as developing growth management
plans or economic development efforts. In close cooperation with
regional, State and Federal agencies, local governments can take
positive steps to protect their wellhead areas.
Additional Information
Ground Water Protection Document Request
(404) 347-3866 or 347-3379
(See the listing for the Wellhead Protection contacts in the
Resource section)
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WATER PROGRAMS
WASTEWATER PROGRAMS
NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM (NPDES)
Public Law 92-500 amended the Federal Water Pollution Control Act
in 1972 (later amended and renamed the Clean Water Act) . It
established a national policy to restore and maintain the chemical,
physical and biological integrity of the nation's waters. The U.S.
EPA or the state environmental control agency has responsibility
for administering NPDES permits. These permics are issued to
operators discharging any pollutant (including wastewater effluent)
to state/U.S. waters (such as streams, lakes, wetlands, etc.) If,
however, the operator can effectively establish a non-point
discharge of domestic wastewater effluent, requirements and
responsibility for NPDES may be minimized.
Specific terms and conditions for a NPDES permit vary from state to
state, but each primacy state must administer the program to meet
minimum EPA standards. In addition, permit requirements within a
given state may also vary because of different geological
conditions, the beneficial uses of the receiving water and other
factors at the discharge site.
Action your community should be taking
Maximize community awareness and education concerning wastewater
collection and disposal, available solution alternatives, funding
resources and procedures for implementing the most appropriate
wastewater collection and treatment-facility. Numerous technical
and administrative resources are available at little or no cost to
the community. Your state agency may be able to provide additional
information.
Historically, state and federal wastewater regulations have
encouraged metropolitan ideas to be used as a design guide for
rural community systems. This has significantly advanced industry
technology, but according to the 1978 Controller General Report to
Congress, millions (billions by 1990) of state and federal dollars
have been spent unnecessarily m rural America. Thus, Congress
implemented phase out funding for the EPA Wastewater Construction
Grant Program, beginning October 1, 1990.
Reduced levels of funding for wastewater collection and disposal
means rural communities and their technical consultants must
identify appropriate technology resources to substantially reduce
capital project cost and operating expense if wastewater collection
and disposal is to be affordable and effective in rural America.
Fortunately, these technology resources are available, but not all
technical consultants, regulatory.authorities and funding agencies
have made the necessary transition to facilitate full use of these
options. Thus, it is crucial in the decade of the 90's to better
educate all participants if the most appropriate and affordable
wastewater collection and disposal facility is to be installed in
your particular community. Knowledge and cooperative efforts from
all parties are essential for rural America to have successful
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wastewater collection and disposal in the decade of the 90s.
Additional Information
Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1972 (33 U.S.C. 1342)
EPA Administered Permit Programs: The National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System, 40 CFR 122
Small Wastewater Systems - Alternative Systems for Small
Communities and Rural Areas, EPA National Small Flows
Clearinghouse, 1-800/624-8301
It's Your Choice - A Guidebook for Local Officials on Small
Community Wastewater Management Options, EPA National Small Flows
Clearinghouse, 1-800/624-8301
Self-Help Handbook, Jane Schantz, Rensselaerville, NY 12142,
518/797-3783
Community Managed Septic Systems - A Viable Alternative to Sewage
Treatment Plants, Controller General Report co the Congress of the
United States, CED 78-168, 11/3/78
Design Manual - Constructed Wetlands and Aquatic Plant Systems for
Municipal Wastewater Treatment, Center for Environmental Research
Information, Cincinnati, OH 45268, EPA/625/1-88/022
(See the listing for the State Water Quality contacts in the
Resource section)
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WATER PROGRAMS
WASTEWATER PROGRAMS
SECONDARY TREATMENT OF MUNICIPAL WASTEWATER
Secondary treatment is the minimum treatment requirement for most
Publicly Owned Treatment Works (POTW). The secondary treatment,
among other things, requires that effluent concentration of
five-day biochemical oxygen demand (B0D5) and total
suspended solids not exceed 30 mg/1 as a 30-day average. Some
State-s allow higher total suspended solids limits if certain
conditions are met. In general, at a minimum the treatment process
must be a stabilization pond.
Does the secondary treatment regulation apply to my community?
Yes, all treatment facilities that discharge to waters of the U.S.
must comply. Beneficial uses of the receiving waters may
necessitate higher quality effluent be discharged or possibly
require no point discharge.
Action your community should be taking
If a wastewater treatment plant discharges to waters of the
State/United States (such as streams, lakes, wetlands, etc.), it is
required to have a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System'
(NPDES) permit. States may have slightly different names for their
permit programs. The permit will specify effluent limitations and
monitoring requirements.
If the POTW cannot meet the effluent limitations specified in che
permit, it may be necessary to upgrade the treatment facility,
review operational improvements, and/or improve che sewer
collection system to correct excess inflow/infiltration problems.
If you suspect a problem, notify the organization you feel
appropriate, starting with the POTVJ itself, community officials,
county sanitarians, or state officials responsible for water
quality and/or wastewater discharge permits.
Additional Information
U.S. EPA Secondary Treatment regulations, 40 CFR 133
"Needs Survey Report to Congress", EPA, February 1987.
"Overview of Selected EPA Regulations and Guidance Affecting POTW
Management," EPA, September, 1989
(See the listing for the State Water Quality contacts in the
Resource section)
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WATER PROGRAMS
WASTEWATER PROGRAMS
SEWAGE SLUDGE USE AND DISPOSAL
Municipal wastewater sludge is a by-product of the wastewater
treatment process. Sludge regulations ensure that sewage sludge is
handled properly and is of sufficient quality for use as a soil
conditioner, fertilizer, or other intended use.
Do the sewage sludge regulations apply to my community?
Yes, if the wastewater treatment system includes any form of
central treatment or mechanical plant, including a lagoon, which
will need to be cleaned.
Mo, if the wastewater treatment mechanism is by individual on-site
septic systems; however, these do produce septage which must be
properly disposed. See local and state regulations and proposed
sludge rules .
Timetable
Proposed rules were Public Noticed February 6, 1989 and will be
located m 40 CFR 503. Many sections of the proposed regulation
are undergoing changes, and the effective date of the regulation is
expected to be early 1992. If you can meet the requirements of the
sludge regulations without construction you must do this within 12
months of the final regulation. However, if construction is
required you will have 24 months from effective date of the
regulation.
Action your community should be taking
Be aware of restrictions covering proper use of the sewage sludge
land application (both agricultural and non-agricultural) or
distribution and marking, and proper disposal (landfllling,
incineration, and surface disposal). Contaminated sludge or poor
disposal practices can pose a threat to public health and the
environment.
Monitoring will be required and specified in the NPDES permit.
Additional information
State Sludge Management Program Regulations are contained in 40 CFR
501. Proposed Federal Regulations for sewage sludge are contained
in 40 CFR 503.
EPA's Policy Promoting The Beneficial Use Of Sewage Sludge and The
New Proposed Technical Sludge Regulations, June 1989
Environmental Regulations and Technologies--Control of Pathogens in
Municipal Wastewater Sludge, September 1989
67
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Suggested Guidelines for the Disposal of Drinking Water Treatment
Wastes Containing Naturally Occurring Radionuclides, U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Drinking. Water, July
1990
Guide to Soil Suitability and Site Selection for Beneficial Use of
Sewage Sludge, Manual 8, Oregon State University Extension
Services/U.S. EPA (Less than 5 copies are FREE of charge.)
Additional Information
Information may be obtained by concacting the county sanitarian, or
your State Agency responsible for water quality.
(See the listing for the State Water Quality contacts in the
Resource section)
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WATER PROGRAMS
WASTEWATER PROGRAMS
PRETREATMENT REQUIREMENTS
Pretreatment refers to those measures taken to prevent pollutants,
from sources other than conventional domestic wastewater, entering
the wastewater system. Pretreatment is the treatment of a waste
before it is discharged into the sanitary sewer. A pretreatment
program includes ordinances, education, inspections, monitoring,
and enforcement.
Pretreatment requirements, m other words, control pollutants which
are incompatible or will interfere with the treatment process or
pass-through the POTW and cause problems in the receiving stream or
lake. In addition, pretreatment requirements will improve
opportunities to recycle and reclaim domestic and industrial
wastewaters and sludges.
Do the Pretreatment requirements apply to my community?
Traditionally, the smaller POTWs with individual discharges are not
required to establish local pretreatment programs. Very small
communities have few, if any, non-domestic users.
If the community has non-domestic users (such as sawmills, food
processing plants, metal finishers, etc.) discharging pollutants
that could pass through the POTW untreated or interfere with
operations, the community may have to implement a pretreatment
program to satisfy the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES) permit requirements.
Your current NPDES permit does contain a section on prohibited
discharges and industrial waste. These are pretreatment
requirements and are designed to insure that you protect your POTW.
If the rule applies to my community, what should I do?
If you are required to establish a pretreatment program your
municipality will establish local ordinances implementing the
pretreatment requirements, and identify a person responsible for
insuring the program is administered and enforced.
Discharge limitations are developed and enforced by POTWs to
implement prohibitions and to protect the POTW. They are site
specific to ensure pretreatment standards are in place to protect
the POTW, the receiving stream and municipal sludge quality.
If your community wants to establish a local pretreatment program,
and is not required to through your NPDES permit, contact your
State agency or EPA for assistance.
If you suspect a problem, notify your POTW operator, community
official, county sanitarian, department of state government
responsible for wastewater discharge permits or the Environmental
Protection Agency. All states have-such departments.
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Additional Information
Pretreatment Final Rule, 40 CFR 403
Your State Agency or EPA will be able to provide additional
details.
(See the listing for the EPA State Pretreatment contacts in the
Resource sect*ion)
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WATER PROGRAMS
WASTEWATER PROGRAMS
STORM WATER
The storm water regulations are a new part of the National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). As part of the
Clean Water "Act amendments of 1987, congress acted to directly
address storm water by adding Section 402(p). In response to these
changes, EPA issued a final application rule in November 1990.
This regulation defines the initial scope of the NPDES permit
program for storm water discharges. It defines the terms "storm
water discharges associated with industrial activity," and "large
and medium municipal separate storm sewer systems" and the permit
application requirements for these discharges.
At this time, the municipal side of the program requires
applications only from cities with a population of 100,000 or more,
and counties having large populations in unincorporated, urbanized
areas. Phase II (sometime after October 1992) may require
communities less than 100,000 to obtain a permit and develop a
storm water management program. It is unknown at this time if
there will be exemptions for very small communities.
The industrial side of the program requires specific "industrial
type" facilities (see attached page on storm water associated with
industrial activity) to apply for and obtain a permit regardless of
the size or ownership (private or government) of the operation.
Action your community should be taking
Find out if the defined industrial operations owned or operated by
the community (i.e. landfill, airport, wastewater treatment plant,
construction activity and possibly others) need permits. The State
or EPA contacts will be able to give assistance to determine which
industrial operations need permits and how to apply for the
permits.
Develop an information and education program for the community to
increase awareness of the relation between the storm water drain
system and the local lake or stream. Storm runoff water collects
in street gutters and storm drains and flows directly to streams
with little or no treatment. Educate the citizens that they play
a role in the quality of the streams and lakes. Dumping used motor
oil, unused paint, pesticides and other household chemicals on the
ground or in the street can severely impact nearby surface water.
Communities should also consider establishing local ordinances
controlling the improper disposal or discharge of pollutants to the
municipal storm water drain system.
Classes of facilities that discharge storm water associated with
industrial activity.
o Facilities subject to National affluent limitation guidelines;
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Facilities classified as Standard Industrial Classification
(SIC) Codes 24 (except 2434), 26 (except 265 and 267), 28, 29,
30, 311, 32, 33 3441, and 373 (including limber; paper;
chemical; petroleum; rubber; leather tanning and finishing;
stone, clay, glass, and concrete; metal; enameled iron and
metal sanitary ware; and ship/boat manufacturers);
Facilities classified as SIC codes 10 through 14 (including
active ahd inactive mining and oil and gas operations with
contaminated storm water discharges, except for areas of coal
mining operations which have been reclaimed and the
performance bond has been released by the appropriate Surface
Mining Control and Reclamation Act (SMCRA) authority, or non-
coal mining operations which have been released from
applicable State or Federal reclamation requirements after 30
days after publication of the final regulation;
Hazardous waste treatment, storage, or disposal facilities;
Landfills, land application sites, and open dumps that receive
industrial wastes;
Recycling facilities including metal scrap yards, batcery
reclaimers, salvage yards, and automobile junkyard (classified
as SIC codes 5015 and 5093 only));
Steam electric power generating facilities (including coal
handling sites);
Transportation facilities classified as SIC Codes 40, 41, 42,
44, and 45 (including vehicle maintenance, equipment cleaning,
and airport deicing areas);
Treatment works treating domestic sewage or any other sewage
sludge or wastewater treatment device or system, used in the
storage, treatment, recycling, and reclamation of sewage
(including land used for the disposal of sludge located within
the confines of the facility) with a design flow of 1.0 mgd
(million gallons per day) or more;
Construction activity (except for disturbances of less that 5
acres of total land area which are not part of a larger common
plan of development or sale); and
For the following facilities, if materials are exposed to
storm water: facilities classified under SIC codes 20, 21, 22,
23, 2434, 25, 265, 267, 27, 283, 31 (except 311), 34 (except
3441), 35, 36, 37 (except 373), 38, 39, and 4221-25 (including
food; tobacco, textile; apparel; wood kitchen cabinets;
furniture; paperboard containers and boxes; converted
paper/paperboard products; printing; drugs; leather;
fabricated metal products; industrial and commercial machinery
and computer equipment; electronic equipment; transportation
equipment; measuring, analyzing and controling instruments and
photographic, medical and optical goods, and watches and
clocks; miscellaneous; and certain warehousing and storage
manufacturers).
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DEFINITIONS/ACRONYMS
AHERA - Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act
ASHAA - Asbestos School Hazard Abatement Act
Bacteria - Microbiological contaminants frequently found in
drinking water samples are fecal coliforms and the bacterium E.
coli. Their presence is evidence of sewage contamination.
CERCLA - Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and
Liability Act
CFR - Code of Federal Regulations
DBP - Disinfection By-product
EPA - Environmental Protection Agency
Ground Water - Water below the land surface that feeds wells and
springs.
GWUI - Ground Water Under the Influence (of surface water)
IOC - Inorganic Chemical
IRAA - Indoor Radon Abatement Act
LEA - Local Education Agency
LEPC - Local Emergency Planning Commission, established under SARA
MCL - Maximum Contaminant Level
NPDES - National Pollution Discharge Elimination System
NPDWR - National Primary Drinking Water Regulation
NTNC - Non-transient non-community
OSHA - Occupational Safety and Health Administration
PH - A measurement of hydrogen ion in a compound; determines
whether a compound is "acidic" or "basic".
POTW - Publicly Owned Treatment Works
Public Water System - (25 or more persons or 15 or more service
connections)
RCRA - Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
RCP - Radon Contractor Proficiency
SARA - Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act
SDWA - Safe Drinking Water Act
73
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SMCRA - Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act
SERC - State Emergency Response Commission, established under SARA
SMF - Standardized Monitoring Framework
SOC - Synthetic Organic Chemical (non-volatile)
State 'Agenoy - When used in this handbook, "State Agency" or
"State", means that department of the State Government designated
by the Governor and approved by EPA to administer the rules
discussed in this handbook. State agencies with addresses and
phone numbers for each state in Region IVII are listed at the end
of this handbook.
Surface Water - Water that is open to the atmosphere and subject to
surface runoff.
TCLP - Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure
TSCA - Toxic Substances Control Act
UST - Underground Storage Tank
VOC - Volatile Organic Chemical
WHP - wellhead Protection
WHPA - Wellhead Protection Area
74
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Drinking
Emergency
Hazardous
Pollution
Public-Private
State
Air
Asbestos
Water
Response
Waste
Prevention
Pretreatment
Partneiship
V. S. EPA
Air Programs
Air Enforcement
State Program Unit
Emergency
Waste
Technology
Prelreaunent Unit
Regional
345 Courtland Street
Branch
Branch
(404) 347-2913
Response and
Compliance
Transfer Unit
(404) 347-3973
Administrator's
Atlanta, GA 30365
(404) 347-2864
(404) 347-5014
Control Section
Section
(404) 347-3633
Office
1-800-462-6706
(404) 347-5065
(404) 347-4552
(404) 347-4728
Alabama
Special Services
Special Services
Water Supply Branch
Field
RCCR
Groundwater
Industrial Branch
Municipal Branch
1751 Cong. W. L. Dickinson, Dr.
Branch
Branch
(205) 271-7801
Operations
Compliance
Branch
(205) 271-7852
(205) 271-7801
Montgomery, AL 36130
(205) 271-7861
(205) 271-7861
Division
Branch
(205) 271-7938
(205) 242-4378
(205) 271-7726
Florida
Air Prevention
Air Resources
Dnnking Water
Emergency
Hazardous Waste
Domestic
Domestic
Domestic
Twin Towers Office Building
Management
Management
Section
Response
Regulations
Wastewater
Wastewater
Wastewater
2600 Blair Stone Rd.
Division
(904) 488-1344
(904)487-1762
Section
Section
Section
Section
Section
Tallahassee, FL 32399-2400
(904) 488-0190
(904) 488-0190
(904) 488-0300
(904) 488-4524
(904) 488-4524
(904) 488-4524
Georgia
Air Protection
Department of
Water Resources
Program
Hazardous Waste
Municipal
Municipal
Municipal
205 Butler Street, Floyd Towers East
Branch
Natural Resources
Management Branch
Coordination
Management
Engineering
Pemnlling
Engineering
Room 1058
(404) 656-6900
(404) 656-4999
(404) 656-5660
Branch
Branch
Program
Program
Program
Atlanta, GA 30334
(404) 656-9905
(404) 656-2833
(404) 656-7802
(404) 362-2680
(404) 656-4769
Kentucky
Division of Air
Asbestos
Division of Water
Field Office
Hazardous Waste
Municipal
Kentucky
Planning and
Department of Natural Resources and
Quality
Abatement Branch
(502) 564-3410
Branch
Branch
Compliance
Potlueiu
Administration
Environmental Protection Cabinet
(502) 564-3382
(505) 564-3382
(502) 564-2380
(502) 564-6716
Section
Discharge
Branch
Frankfort Office Park - 18 Reiiiy Rd.
(502) 564-3410
Elimination
(502) 564-3410
Frankfort, KY 40601
System (KPDES)
(502) 564-3410
Mississippi Department of Environmental
Department of
Department of
Department of Health
Department of
Department of
Department of
Department of
See EPA notation
Quality
Environmental
Environmental
(601)960-7518
Environmental
En vi ronmental
Environmental
Environmental
P. O. Box 10385
Quality
Quality
Quality
Quality
Quality
Quality
Jackson, MS 39209
(601)961-5175
(601) 961-5175
(601) 352-9100
(601) 961-5171
(601)961-5171
(601) 961-5171
North Carolina
Division of
Division of
Division of
Division of
Governor's Waste
Office of
Division of
See EPA notation
Department of Environment, Health and
Environmental
Environmental
Environmental Health
Environmental
Management
Pollution
Environmental
Natural Resources
Management
Health
(919) 733-2321
Management
Board
Prevention
Management
P. O. Box 27687
(919) 733-3340
(919) 733-0820
Division of Water
(919) 733-5291
(919) 733-9020
(919) 733-7015
(919) 733-5083
Raleigh, NC 27611
Resources
(919) 733-4064
South Carolina
Bureau of Air
Air Quality
Water Supply
Emergency
Wasie
Water Quality
Municipal Section
See EPA notation
Department of Health and Environmental
(803) 734-4507
Control
Construction Division
Response
Assessment and
Assessment and
(803) 734-5268
Control
(803) 734-4750
(803) 734-5342
Division
Emergency
Enforcement
2600 Bull Street
(803) 734-5189
Response
Section
Columbia, SC 29201
(803) 734-5189
(803) 734-5300
Tennessee
Division of Air
Air Pollution
Division of Water
Tennessee
Division of Solids
Information
Division of Water
Soe EPA notation
Department of Health and Environment
Pollution
Control Division
Supply
Emergency
and Hazardous
Resource Officer
Pollution Control
T.EJl.R.A Building
Control
(615) 741-3931
(615) 741-2281
Management
Waste
(615)742-6738
(615) 741-2275
150 Ninth Avenue, North
(615)741-3931
Agency
(615) 741-3424
Nashville, TN 37219-5404
(615) 741-0001
or 252-3300
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Underground Water Wellhead Wethuid
State Radon SCORE Sludge Stormwater Storage Tanks Quality Protection Protection
U. S. EPA
Office of Radiation
1-800-SOS-RADON
Technology Transfer
Unit
(404) 347-3633
Technology Transfer
Unit
(404) 347-3633
Stomiwaler and
Municipal Permits
Unit
(404) 347-3633
Groundwater
Management Unit
(404) 347-3866
Water Quality
Standards Unit
(404) 347-2126
Groundwater
Management Unit
(404) 347-3866
Wetlands Planning
Unit
(404) 347-2126
Alabama
Public Health Department Municipal Branch Municipal Branch Municipal Branch
(205) 242-5315 (205) 271 -7801 (205) 271 -7816 (205) 271 -7816
Groundwater Branch
(205) 271-7832
Water Quality
Branch
(205) 271-7826
W.ilei Supply Branch
(205) 271-7776
Mining and
Nonpoint Source
Section
(205) 271-7984
Florida
Health and Rehibilitative
Services
(904) 488-1525
1-800-543-8279
Domestic Wastewater
Section
(904) 488-4524
Domestic
Wastewater Section
(904) 488-4524
Stormwater
Management
Section
(904) 488-0782
Storage Tank
Regulation Section
(904) 488-3936
Standards and
Monitoring Section
(904) 487-0505
U1C, Criteria
Standard Section
(904) 488-3601
Wastewater
Facilities
Regulations Section
(904) 488-4420
Georgia
Department of Human
Services
(404) 894-6644
Municipal
Engineering Program
(404) 656-4769
Municipal
Engineering
Program
(404) 656-4769
Industrial
Wastewater
Program
(404) 656-4887
Site Investigation
Program
(404) 362-2687
Water Quality
Management
Program
(404) 656-4905
Geologic Survey
Branch
(404) 656-3214
Call EI'A Wetlands
Planning Unit
(404) 347-2126
Kentucky
Division of Community
Safety
(502) 564-3700
Technical Support
Section
(502) 564-3410
Facility
Construction Branch
(502) 564-3410
KPDES
(502) 564-3410
Underground Storage
Tanks Branch
(502) 564-6716
Water Quality Groundwater Branch Water Quality
Branch (502) 564-3410 Branch
(502) 564-3410 (502) 564-3410
Mississippi
Department of
Environmental Quality
(601) 354-6657
Department of
Environmental
Quality
(601) 961-5171
Department of
Environmental
Quality
(601) 961-5171
Department of
Environmental
Quality
(601) 961-5171
Department of
Environmental
Quality
(601) 961-5171
Department of
Environmental
Quality
(601) 961-5171
Department of
Environmental
Quality
(601) 961-5171
Department of
Environmental
Quality
(601) 961-5171
North Carolina
Division of Radiation
Protection
(919) 733-4283
Division of
Environmental
Management
(919) 733-6900
Division of
Environmental
Management
(919) 733-6900
Division of
Environmental
Management
(919) 733-5083
Division of
Environmental
Management
(919) 733-3221
Division of
Environmental
Management
(919) 733-5083
Division of
Environmental
Management
(919) 733-3221
Division of Soil and
Water Conservation
(919) 733-2302
South Carolina
Tennessee
Department of Health and
Environmental Control
(803) 734-4700 or 4631
Air Pollution Control
Division
(615) 741-3931
1-800-232-1139
Loan and Grants
Administration
(803) 734-5300
Construction Grants
and Loans
(615) 741-0638
Municipal Section
(803) 734-5262
Division of Waler
Pollution Control
(615) 741-2275
Industrial Waste
Section
(803) 734-5253
Division of Waler
Pollution Control
(615) 741-2275
Groundwater
Protection Division
(803) 734-5386
Division of
Underground Storage
Tanks
(615) 741-4094
Waler Quality
Certification Section
(803) 734-531 1
Division of
Pollution Control
(615) 741-2275
Water Supply
Construction
(803) 734-5342
Division of Water
Supply
(615) 741-6636
Waler Quality
Certification and
Wetlands Program
Section
(803) 734-531 1
Division of Waler
Pollution Control
(615) 741-7883
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