OSHA requires certain employers to maintain and implement health and safety programs. Below are questions clients frequently ask concerning Health & Safety Plans (HASP) and Hazard Communication Programs. Who needs a health and safety program? Health and safety program requirements apply to most private-sector employers, particularly those whose operations involve hazardous materials. Industries that commonly fall under these requirements include construction, maritime, manufacturing, and other industrial sectors. Can you just review my plan/program and make recommendations or give me an update? Yes! Separation Systems Consultants, Inc. (SSCI) can do an assessment (safety audit) of your workplace, which includes a review Read More »
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), in coordination with the EPA, regulate potential impacts to wetlands and other water of the United States (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act (CWA § 404) and the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899 (RHA § 10). A critical distinction exists between wetland classification (the ecological identification of a wetland based on physical, hydrological, and biological indicators) and a jurisdictional determination (a regulatory determination of whether that wetland is federally regulated under the WOTUS definition). The proposed revisions re-define WOTUS and could directly impact landowners, developers, and stakeholders in terms of compliance and permitting obligations. The agencies seek to Read More »
SSCI specializes in designing RV parks that blend functionality, aesthetics, and guest experience. With extensive expertise in permitting, structural requirements, and infrastructure planning, we ensure our projects reach the finish line. From concept to completion, we deliver RV park environments that attract travelers and maximize long-term value. Let SSCI provide expert-level engineering services for your RV park development. Feasibility studies Storm Drainage Utilities Parking and Paving Traffic TXDoT Permitting Mechanical/Electrical/Plumping COMChecks Driveways Structural
Owners may not realize that the Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) requires acknowledgment of United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) permitting for work done in HCFCD rights-of-way (ROW). HCFCD designs, implements and maintains flood infrastructure in Harris County. Businesses looking to expand their existing developments or looking to build new developments within Harris County are subject to HCFCD regulations. This can require: A Wetlands Delineation to investigate potential Waters of the United States (WOTUS) or other regulated waters under USACE jurisdiction within the project area. A Threatened & Endangered Species Review to determine the presence of protected species. A Cultural Resources Review to assess Read More »
SSCI Environmental is here to help you and your business stay prepared and compliant during hurricane season. Here are some tips aimed at protecting your facility, your property and family, plus preventing environmental spills. Weather can change in an instant – will you be ready? Here are some essential tips to help: 1. Review Your Emergency Response Plan: Ensure your facility’s emergency response plan is up-to-date and includes specific procedures for hurricanes. Conduct regular drills with your team to ensure everyone knows their roles and responsibilities. 2. Secure Hazardous Materials: Properly store and secure all hazardous materials and chemicals to Read More »
A Stormwater Quality (SWQ) Permit is an approval issued by either the city or county that ensures a construction project includes measures to manage and reduce pollution in stormwater runoff, both during and after construction. The most commonly permitted Permanent Storm Water Quality Features (PSWQF) are ponds and stormwater interceptors. However, this begs the question as to how one obtains an SWQ Permit? After the engineering drawings have been approved the permitting process involves the submission of an affidavit to the public which is recorded with the county clerk, application fees, and a Stormwater Quality Management Plan (SWQMP). However, a Read More »
As of March 12th, 2025, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Army Corps of Engineers released a new Memorandum that provides clarity and guidance on the term “continuous surface connection” as related to the definition of Waters of the United States (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act (CWA). The Memorandum adds new limitations on the EPA’s enforcement abilities and revises older policies and interpretations. The EPA and the Army Corp of Engineers are stepping back from previous interpretations that allowed jurisdiction over wetlands with connections through “discrete features” not natural connectivity. Now, wetlands that are not directly connected to Read More »
Environmental Compliance Starts with Smart Stormwater Management Separation Systems Consultants, Inc. (SSCI) is proud to offer industry-leading Stormwater Quality Management Plan (SWQMP) services, supporting developers, municipalities, and industrial clients in achieving regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship. With over 39 years of experience, SSCI delivers customized SWQMP solutions that are both practical and sustainable, ensuring our clients meet applicable local, state, and federal regulations. Plan Development SSCI develops tailored SWQMPs that align with the specific needs of your site and regulatory requirements. Our thorough site assessments and pollutant source evaluations guide the development of effective, results-driven stormwater strategies. Technical Drawings Our Read More »
Petroleum Storage Tanks (PSTs) Stay Compliant & Optimize Your Fuel Systems Notice of Construction (NOC) Submission Get instant acknowledgment by submitting a Notice of Construction (NOC) via STEERS EPermits. This system allows submissions for both new and existing facilities. Only the latest TCEQ-0495 Underground & Aboveground PST Construction Notification (NOC) will be accepted. Forms with a revision date before June 2024 (lower left corner) will no longer be processed. Fill out all sections except Part G: Consultant Information. Faster Processing with STEERS We highly recommend using STEERS EPermits to submit: Renewals Owner/operator updates Tank updates, including: Temporarily Out of Service Read More »
As of August 14, 2024, the TCEQ has adopted the 2024 TPDES Phase II (Small) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) General Permit. This permit applies to new or expanded urban areas with a population of at least 50,000 people in the 2020 Decennial Census. Applications for the MS4 General Permit (TXR040000) must be submitted to the TCEQ by February 11, 2025. Municipalities, industries, and developers in the Houston area must act promptly to develop or update their Stormwater Management Programs (SWMPs) before submitting their applications. Separation Systems Consultants, Inc. (SSCI) offers Stormwater Quality Management Plan (SWQMP) services designed to Read More »