Hired, trained, and equipped a Principal Environmental Specialist to assist in the inspection of aboveground petroleum tanks, underground tanks and chemical disclosure, including program management and enforcement.It is anticipated all program elements will be included in responsibilities for this position in the future.
Upgraded existing inspection tracking software (CUPA DMS) and initiated a full review of new software available from all CUPA vendors that meet State reporting requirements for electronic data transfer of all environmental data by 2013.
Through coordination with Public Works, established a Fats, Oil, and Grease manual to meet State and Federal National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) requirements to prevent Sewer System Overflows and decrease non-storm water runoff into the ocean.
Conducted approximately 150 inspections involving hazardous materials, hazardous wastes, extremely hazardous substances, underground tanks, and emergency release planning.In addition, industrial waste facilities were inspected pursuant to NPDES wastewater pre-treatment requirements.
Responded to approximately 7 hazardous materials incidents, including spills of mercury, diesel fuel and other hazardous materials released into the environment.
Provided a hazardous materials and waste management class for local businesses and provided updated information on hazardous waste controls and management of aboveground tanks.Information will meetState and Federal requirements for annual refresher training.
Participated in bi-monthly Community Awareness and Emergency Response (CAER) meetings to provide guidance to industrial facilities in the area of hazardous materials and regulations, as well as assistance in routine public outreach efforts.
Evaluated CUPA program and made corrections to inspection data review and continuous quality improvement through improved project tracking and organization of files.
Competed for and won a Hazardous Materials Emergency Planning (HMEP) grant from the Federal Department of Transportation for emergency notification system analysis and pilot test of selected system.The system complements existing notification systems available to the City and County.
Conducted three (3) Risk Management Plan inspections and audits to ensure all plan requirements are met and safety equipment is incorporated in all aspects of risk planning and analysis.Chemicals audited include ammonia, hydrogen sulfide, sulfur oxides, and flammable gases.
The Division began implementation of an aboveground tank program for the regulation of aboveground tanks in the City.Approximately 30 businesses will be regulated for the storage of petroleum and are required to prepare Spill Prevention Control and Counter-measure plans for their respective facilities.
Provided HAZWOPER refresher training to approximately 35 students at the statewide CUPA Conference in Garden Grove.The annual refresher is held in conjunction with the conference to allow local inspectors to meet training requirements for safety, health and environmental requirements.
