Waste Watchers
The NICEIC Group is working with the Environmental Agency (EA) on reviewing integrated pollution prevention control permits. Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control (IPPC) is a system following the European Community directive which will introduce a more integrated approach to controlling pollution from industrial sources across England and Wales.
Many companies are required to hold a permit issued by the EA. Those in possession of a permit must ensure:
- all appropriate preventative measures are taken against pollution, in particular through application of best available techniques.
- no significant pollution is caused.
- waste production is avoided and, where waste is produced, it is recovered. Where that is not possible it is disposed of in a way that produces the least impact on the environment.
- energy is used efficiently.
- measures are taken to avoid accidents and limit consequences.
- necessary measures are taken on the closure of an installation to avoid any pollution risk and return the site to a satisfactory condition.
Current work includes assisting companies active in both the organic and inorganic chemical sectors. Once a permit has been granted, IPPC operators have significant responsibility for monitoring emissions and supplying the regulator with data required to check compliance with the permit.
The regulator has to undertake independent monitoring and inspections of the installation to check compliance with the set emission limits.
Companies that need to comply with the regulations must have an environmental management system such as ISO 14001. The EA reduces the fee that is charged for those companies holding any third party accreditied certificates.
For more details on Environmental Management courses offered by JPD with NQA visit our website by clicking the link on the right hand side, or alternatively contact one of our training advisors on 0870 438 2573.
(Taken from NQA Reporter, Autumn 2005)