Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Practice Test

Where are regulations for managing stormwater activities on construction sites outlined?

1. NPDES

2. NIOSH

3. EPA

4. OSHA

The correct answer is: NPDES

The regulations for managing stormwater activities on construction sites are primarily outlined in the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). The NPDES program, administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), requires construction sites that disturb one or more acres of land to obtain permits that address the management of stormwater runoff. This program is crucial in preventing pollutants from being discharged into waterways during construction activities, thereby ensuring compliance with the Clean Water Act. The NPDES framework includes requirements for developing and implementing a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) that identifies potential sources of pollution and outlines control measures. This regulatory approach is designed to protect water quality and manage the adverse effects of stormwater runoff from construction operations. While the other organizations, such as NIOSH (focused on occupational health), OSHA (which regulates workplace safety), and the EPA (which oversees broader environmental regulations), play important roles in related areas, they do not specifically regulate stormwater discharges from construction sites in the same manner as the NPDES program.