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TDEC Training and Certification Opportunities


TDEC offers a variety of trainings for our regulated community. Read below to learn if any are relevant to you, and then click the link to learn more. 
Waste
  • Pharmaceuticals Rule and Nicotine Amendments
    A four-hour workshop will be offered after the amendments become effective.


  • RCRA 101 Workshop
    Topics discussed in this class will include waste determinations, generator classification, generator requirements, record keeping/reporting, used oil, and universal waste.

  • Statewide Uniform Inspection Training (SUIT)
    This now virtual training is designed to provide solid waste facility operators and employees with a basic knowledge of the state facility inspection program. SUIT provides information regarding the policies and regulatory citations associated with each item on the inspection document. 

  • Lead Abatement Certification
    Individuals engaged in lead-based paint (LBP) activities in "target housing" and "child-occupied facilities" in Tennessee must have certification through the State. Certification requires completion of an appropriate LBP training course from a State of TN certified training provider AND must pass TDEC's certification exam. A study guide is available on the division's website.

  • Asbestos
    While TDEC does not offer asbestos training, those who are conducting asbestos activities must submit asbestos accreditation forms to TDEC. If you need asbestos accreditation, a list of currently accredited online training providers is available. More information about TDEC's abestos requirements is also available.

  • Mold Remediation
    TDEC does not offer any certifications for mold remediation because there are no established standards, rules, or guidelines for mold remediation. However, some certifications are available through third-party groups.


Air
  • Visible Emissions Evaluation (Smoke School)
    Certain air sources require evaluation of its visible emissions by a facility's air permit. TDEC offers the Visible Emissions Evaluation course to be able to fulfil this requirement. The course includes a lecture and an in-field evaluation.


Water
  • Construction Stormwater Training 
    Though not offered by TDEC, this University of Tennessee-led training is required for persons involved in erosion prevention and sediment controls at construction sites. The Level 1 course is designed and required for persons tasked with conducting inspections of the construction site. The Level 2 course is geared towards those who are designing erosion and sediment control measures at construction sites.

  • Fleming Training Center
    The Fleming Training Center offers a variety of courses for water and wastewater treatment plant operators.

Underground Storage Tanks
  • UST Tank School
    This virtual training is designed to help increase tank owners and operators understanding of regulatory compliance with UST rules, prepare for future inspections, and new regulations. The class covers UST systems equipment, operations, testing requirements, recordkeeping and reporting requirements and specific topics to the TN UST Program.  
Dry Cleaning
  • Environmental Compliance Training
All TN drycleaners must have a valid training certificate to register each year. Drycleaners        have the option of completing the Environmental Compliance Training offered by TDEC or the Certified Environmental Drycleaner (CED) exam offered by the Drycleaning and Laundry Institute. TDEC's trainings are free and offered online. Certification is valid for 3 years.

This list is not entirely comprehensive of all of the trainings that TDEC provides or requires of its permittees. If you have questions about other trainings or certification requirements, contact us directly with your question.

TN Multi-Sector Stormwater Permit (TMSP) REISSUANCE

The TMSP is currently on public notice for reissuance! The Division of Water Resources is proposing to reissue the existing TMSP, unchanged, for a 3 year period. This 3 year period will allow TDEC staff time to evaluate recent changes to the federal Multi-Sector Permit and seek feedback from stakeholders on which changes should be made to the TMSP. This period will also allow time to set up eReporting for monitoring reports.
The public hearing is scheduled for June 16, 2022 at 1:00 pm with virtual and in-person attendance options. The draft permit and information about the public notice and hearing is available to view here.
More information about the reissuance, as well as explanations on who needs TMSP coverage, can be found on the TMSP website. If you need help understanding this process, contact us with questions or for assistance.
Stream and Wetland Restoration Grant Opportunities!
Do you know of a stream or wetland in need of mitigation but don't have the funds to do it? Great news for you! Grant funding through the Stream and Wetland Restoration Grant Program is available to nonprofit corporations, state agencies, federal agencies, and municipal entities. All applicants will be required to submit a pre-proposal, including a grant program pre-proposal application, project proposal description, letters of commitment, and budget justification. Project proposal consideration for review will require permanent project protection through easements or deed restrictions.
Application submittals will be accepted starting June 15, 2022 until September 1, 2022!
Chats with Chief
If you find the information in this newsletter as helpful as I do, then you should follow SBEAP on social media. They are frequently posting updates about public hearings, upcoming regulation and/or general permit changes, grant opportunities,  learning opportunities, and more! Everything a cat could ask for ...except for how to open a doorknob without opposable thumbs.
Twitter: @TNSmallBizBuzz
Facebook: TN Small Biz Buzz


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Ask SBEAP 

Q: With temperatures warming, my family and I plan to spend more time outdoors in the upcoming months. How do I know if the air quality is safe for playing outside?

A: TDEC's Division of Air Pollution Control (APC) keeps a close eye on air quality throughout the state on a daily basis. APC's website offers a variety of resources for monitoring the status of air quality and weather in the various regions throughout the state. Additionally, APC frequently updates their Facebook page with important air quality and weather alerts for Tennesseans. Follow them for an easy source of accurate information! 

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