Stormwater Inspections (What Are They & How To Pass Them)

In the realm of construction and land development, maintaining a delicate balance between progress and environmental preservation is of paramount importance. To achieve this equilibrium, Washington Stormwater is offering a comprehensive measure: the Certified Erosion and Sediment Control Lead (CESCL) inspection. We have a team of experienced inspectors who are familiar with the latest stormwater regulations and construction water treatment. We can help to ensure that your construction site passes stormwater inspections and that stormwater runoff is managed correctly.

Construction Stormwater Inspection by Washington Stormwater

In our work with contractors, we do a few different inspections. First, we walk the site and talk with the contractor to determine how much room is available on-site for the equipment. Second, we offer CESCL (Certified Erosion and Sediment Control Lead) inspections. Lastly, our operators who run our water systems will do daily inspections on the systems to ensure everything is working properly. This is when we ensure our system pipes are working properly. We also do pH and turbidity inspections every 15 minutes to ensure the water is treated properly and we are not discharging water above the city or permit llimits.

CESCL Inspections

CESCL (Certified Erosion and Sediment Control Lead) inspections play a pivotal role in environmental stewardship within construction projects. These inspections ensure that proper erosion and sediment control measures are implemented to prevent pollutants from entering waterways. As a crucial component of stormwater management, CESCL inspections monitor construction sites for compliance with regulatory standards, safeguarding both natural resources and community well-being.

Environmental Protection

Construction sites have the potential to impact water quality through sediment runoff, erosion, and the discharge of pollutants. Construction stormwater inspections are a vital role in identifying and addressing potential pollution sources. By implementing proper stormwater management practices, we can prevent harmful contaminants from entering water bodies, preserving aquatic ecosystems, and maintaining the overall health of our environment.

Regulatory Compliance

Compliance with stormwater regulations is a legal obligation and a responsibility toward environmental stewardship. Construction stormwater inspections ensure construction sites meet regulatory requirements, minimizing the risk of penalties and reputational damage. Construction projects demonstrate their commitment to sustainable practices and contribute to a cleaner and safer environment by staying compliant.

Erosion and Sediment Control

One of the primary focuses of construction stormwater inspections is evaluating the effectiveness of erosion and sediment control measures. These measures, such as silt fences, sediment basins, and erosion control blankets, are crucial for preventing soil erosion and sediment runoff. Inspections ensure these control measures are correctly implemented and maintained, minimizing the impact on nearby water bodies.

Best Management Practices (BMPs)

Construction stormwater inspections also evaluate the implementation of Best Management Practices (BMPs) specific to construction sites. These practices include strategies for erosion control, sediment containment, runoff reduction, and proper management of construction materials and waste. By adhering to BMPs, construction sites can minimize their environmental impact and promote sustainable construction practices.

Why Are Construction Site Stormwater Inspections Important?

Construction stormwater inspections are essential for several reasons. First, they help to protect water quality. Stormwater runoff from construction sites can carry pollutants into rivers, lakes, and streams. These pollutants can harm fish and other aquatic life and make the water unsafe for drinking.

Second, construction stormwater inspections help to stop the water going offsite. During our CESCL inspections, we do make sure that the proper BMP’s are in place and some of those divert water to other places so that the water onsite isn’t going offsite. The big thing that helps prevent a jobsite from flooding is us installing our systems on site. There are makeshift holding ponds made that the contractors pump water to, and our system pulls water from there, we treat it, and discharge it.

Third, construction stormwater inspections help to ensure compliance with regulations. Many jurisdictions have stormwater management regulations that must be followed. Construction stormwater inspections help to ensure that these regulations are being met.

How to Pass a Construction Stormwater Inspection?

Passing a construction stormwater inspection, particularly one conducted by a Certified Erosion and Sediment Control Lead (CESCL), requires meticulous planning and adherence to best practices. At Washington Stormwater, our CESCL inspectors are well-versed in the intricacies of stormwater management. To successfully navigate such an inspection, focus on robust erosion and sediment control measures, proper installation of sediment control devices, and meticulous site maintenance. Our experts emphasize the significance of having a comprehensive erosion and sediment control plan tailored to the site’s unique characteristics. This includes strategies like stabilized construction entrances, sediment basins, and erosion control. Regular monitoring, swift corrective actions, and thorough record-keeping also play pivotal roles in demonstrating your commitment to environmental preservation and regulatory compliance. With Washington Stormwater’s expertise by your side, passing a construction stormwater inspection becomes a streamlined process that ensures the protection of local water bodies and ecosystems.

Stormwater Inspection Checklist

The following is a stormwater inspection checklist of items that should be included in a construction stormwater inspection report:

• A description of the job site’s stormwater management system
• A list of any potential problems with the system, for example, approximate rainfall amount, etc.
• Recommendations for correcting any problems
• A record of the inspection date and time with the permit number
• The signature of the inspector

Construction Site Stormwater Inspection by Washington Stormwater

Construction site stormwater inspections are vital for maintaining regulatory compliance and protecting the environment during construction activities. Construction sites can successfully navigate the inspection process by understanding the purpose and significance of these inspections and following best practices. Washington Stormwater is a water treatment supplier specializing in providing comprehensive construction stormwater inspections and support services. We are the top provider of erosion and sediment control inspections known as CESCL inspections. CESCL stands for Certified Erosion and Sediment Control Lead. 

Our process begins by looking at the permit and seeing how often inspections are required, as some sites require an inspection after every rain event. Meanwhile, other sites require just a weekly report of stormwater inspection. Moreover, during the inspection, the CESCL will walk the job site while observing and looking for any concerns that are or could potentially become an issue. 

In the end, we provide the client with a complete report. We also print out the reports every week and update the SWPPP binder onsite. Partner with us to ensure the highest stormwater management standards, achieve compliance, and contribute to a sustainable future.

Contact Us Today for Construction Site Stormwater Inspection!

For more information on construction stormwater inspections, please contact Washington Stormwater at (360) 625-8366 or visit our website at https://washingtonstormwaterllc.com/.