Recently OWEA had conference calls with both the Ohio EPA and US EPA. Both calls were related to the COVID-19 virus. The call with the US EPA focused on research while the discussion with the Ohio EPA focused on how facilities are dealing with COVID-19.
A few brief highlights include:
US EPA
- US EPA Research Lab in Cincinnati is working through possible COVID-19 surveillance testing. This is a potential way to monitor community infection rates and hot spots.
- This could occur by mid-May.
- OWEA and AOMWA will be working with the lab in identifying several potential plants to participate
Ohio EPA
- EPA is trying to work with facilities to address staffing shortages and other COVID-19 challenges.
- While the preferred oversight is the Operator of Record, another senior operator or worst case any operator can provide oversight. OEPA can also possibly help with remote assistance. Facilities need to work with their district offices and keep the EPA informed of any necessity to deviate.
- More than 1,600 operators have expressed a willingness to assist plants experiencing a staffing issue.
- All efforts should be made to conduct required sampling, but in the event samples, can be taken, plants should use the code AH (sample not taken) and cite COVID19 Pandemic as the reason. Final outfall sample is the utmost priority if sampling becomes an issue.
- OEPA is aware that obtaining PPE is an issue and currently WWTP employees are considered tier 2 essential employees and are behind medical personnel. OEPA will continue to monitor the situation and will help in anyway but are extremely limited in their scope.
- MS4 permits for pretreatment, construction activity and inspections are limited and while general waivers can’t be granted for regulatory compliance, a formal request for flexibility can be made.
Further discussions will continue with both agencies.
