Compliance Audits and EHS Management Systems
Environmental audits and site assessments are two methods of ensuring that owners stay in compliance—from acquisition through operation to final disposition. Environmental compliance audits are an effective way to identify deficiencies and areas of potential noncompliance. A thorough audit evaluates permit and compliance status with respect to federal, state, and local regulations. It typically covers areas such as waste generation and disposal, storage and process tanks, air emissions, safety and health hazards, and hazardous materials handling. UTRS has a wealth of experience providing a variety of compliance support. In essence, we become part of a client's "team"—representing and protecting the client's best interests. We evaluate client procedures, operations, and policies. If we identify a deficiency, we ensure client confidentiality and recommend a plan for corrective action.
A third method of ensuring compliance and reducing operational impact on human health and the environment is to implement a certifiable Environmental Management System (EMS). An EMS systematically addresses the impacts of operational processes on human health and the environment by regularly evaluating all areas of a facility's operations to ensure ongoing compliance with applicable regulations and identify areas of potential process improvement. It enables a company to shift its focus from a reactionary cycle to a "plan-do-check-review" cycle. Many companies have realized cost reductions by implementing procedures and processes that eliminate regulatory burdens and streamline compliance with the remaining requirements. In addition, under the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Audit Policy, violations discovered as part of an EMS audit are eligible for reduction or elimination of financial penalties.
Established health and safety programs are crucial for complying with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, minimizing employer liability due to work-related illnesses and accidents, and optimizing employee safety and morale. These programs benefit both employers and employees by ensuring a safe work environment, promoting awareness of job-specific hazards, and reducing the number of work-related accidents and illnesses. OSHA mandates numerous programs for worker safety, use of personal protective equipment, and training. These programs must be documented and kept current at all times. UTRS offers comprehensive services to assess and enhance occupational safety and health, including:
- Conducting internal compliance audits
- Providing environmental planning and management support
- Evaluating and designing environmental management systems
- Assessing procedures, operations, and policies
- Performing regulatory analyses to determine the impact of proposed actions or pending legislation
- Assisting with the preparation of permits and permit modification applications
- Developing environmental reports and plans to fulfill regulatory requirements (e.g., EPCRA, TRI, permit compliance reports)
- Compiling and analyzing environmental data in support of permit and/or violation negotiations
- Preparing a customized "compliance calendar" for each facility or customer
- Defining environmental liability and assessing risks
- Identifying technologies and best management practices to enhance compliance while reducing costs and/or compliance burdens.
- Identifying worker hazards and providing recommendations to minimize risks
- Developing and presenting training programs
- Customizing, maintaining, and managing the plans and hazard information required by OSHA
- Reducing hazards by developing safe work practices and engineering controls.