Should You Apply for an NPDES Permit?
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency formulated the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) to reduce the amount of contaminants which find ways into the lakes, rivers, and streams of our country. The main thrust of the NPDES is aimed at industry, since the vast majority of pollutants come from industrial sources. It is possible, however, that under certain conditions, a hospital, a university, and/or office building would be required to apply for an NPDES permit. These could involve discharge from boilers and cooling tower systems.
Boiler blowdown and cooling tower bleed off contain pollutants contributed by water treatment chemicals. Some of the pollutants are hazardous, such as sodium hydroxide, amines, biocides, or metallic compounds. (It is interesting to note that the EPA considers the Sodium Hypochlorite added to drinking water for disinfection a pollutant.) The blowdown or bleed off discharging to a storm sewer would necessitate permitting, if two criteria are met. These are the type of pollutant(s) in the water and the quantity of the discharge. Even if pollutants are present in the water, permitting may only be required if there is a large quantity of dicharge. Consult an environmental engineer to determine whether or not compliance is warranted.
Typically, hospitals, institutions, and businesses are highly visible in the community. A violation of EPA regulations could be terribly damaging not only in terms of potential fines but also public relations. In today's competitive business environment, this liability can not be tolerated. A thorough study of your facility will pay future dividends.
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