How to Write and Implement a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP)

Have you found yourself struggling with designing or reviewing a SWPPP that really works?   Have you been a part of a project in the past where the SWPPP was never properly implemented?   Then you understand already the need for a document which is field ready, and cohesive.  The primary stormwater pollutant at construction sites, is sediment.   To control and manage this pollutant, you need a good set of directions.  These directions, are most effectively conveyed in a dynamic, well designed series of documents called a SWPPP (StormWater Pollution Prevention Plan).  In order to design and develop a document like this effectively, it is important to follow some basic steps.   In addition, it helps to further synthesize this development process with real – site specific complications.   This design protocol makes your SWPPP unique and more effective than the typical “off the shelf templates” which haven’t been developed with a specific site and it’s dynamic conditions in mind.  This course, when complete; will provide the user with a series of concrete steps to integrate within their next SWPPP design or SWPPP review.  Whether you have never designed a SWPPP before, or done many – this course is for you.  

Traditionally this industry has focused on documents for environmental compliance that do not appeal to the average professional on a construction site.  The key strategy remains, “How does a professional designer create a SWPPP that is both environmentally compliant and gets properly installed during the project phases?”  The fundamental steps in designing a SWPPP will follow the industry’s guidelines and integrate techniques that make the SWPPP useable on any construction project.  By following a few critical steps, fundamental to success, the course participants will be exposed to key strategies and useful tips for designing a SWPPP that really works.   Further, participants will learn to properly integrate practices,  which will be emphasized along with cost comparisons for achieving environmentally compliant projects.  If you design, inspect, install, or review Construction SWPPP Plans; then this course is for you.

• Module 1 brings the participant through a series of fundamental steps to begin SWPPP design.  Often overlooked; these steps include site design, site assessment, and risk analysis.  This step, if overlooked, can mean the difference between a good SWPPP and one which is never implemented.
• Module 2 resumes with typical grading practices.  The course participants will learn about fundamental site access controls, perimeter management techniques and conclude with typical dewatering and slope protection analysis.
• Module 3 will highlight sediment management techniques involving channels and inlet devices.  These steps along with previous modules allow the participant to effectively manage the whole project learning about dynamic changes and how to properly articulate them to the construction professional on site.
• Module 4 concludes the course with the often forgotten specific of risk analysis, documentation, permanent Stormwater practices, pollution prevention, and site signage.   These steps, combined with previous modules best prepares the participant for the fundamentals behind a good SWPPP, able to be used on a site effectively.

Learning Objectives: 

1. Recognize the basic science of Erosion and Sedimentation, and the thought process behind design and implementation of a proper SWPPP 
2. Use Best Management Practices for SWPPP Development and Construction Site Erosion and Sediment Control Implementation
3. Develop an understanding of stormwater runoff management and erosion and sediment control Best Management Practices
4. Demonstrate and understanding of Best Management Practices and the processes of erosion and sedimentation
5. Apply the understanding of risk analysis and site assessment to the development of a site specific SWPPP

Course Level: Intermediate

At the completion of this course you will receive 3 Professional Development Hour of credit. For any questions on continuing education credit, please contact IECA Education at education@ieca.org