What to Expect During a Program Inspection

Due to the regulatory nature of our inspections and the uncertain timeframes involved with each facility, you should expect unannounced inspections.

• A general walkthrough of the facility will be conducted to look at processes and storage areas. The inspector will ask questions regarding facility operations during the walkthrough. 
• Keep areas clean where hazardous materials and wastes are used and stored. Keep all containers labeled and the labels facing out for easy identification and make sure hazardous waste labels are complete.
• Handling and accumulating hazardous material and waste is serious business. Although you may use these substances every day, don’t become complacent with the proper and safe handling of these hazardous substances. Potential fire, explosions, inhalation hazards and long-term health problems can result from the mishandling of these substances. 

• All hazardous material and hazardous waste records (receipts, invoices, hazardous waste manifests, etc.) must be available for review. Photocopies of records are acceptable as long as they are legible, and the originals can be produced if needed.
• All hazardous waste records must be kept for a minimum of three years. Other records that must be available include employee training records, storage area checklists, underground storage tank records, SPCC plans (for aboveground storage tanks), SB 14, recycling records, Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) and process safety documentation. 

• After the inspection, the inspector will go over the final report with the operator, focusing on areas that need corrections. A formal report will be emailed to you by the inspector.
• Pay close attention to the amount of time given to correct any violations and to submit paperwork that may be required. Failure to correct violations noted may result in legal action. If you can’t meet the timeline, contact your inspector well in advance of the compliance date.