This newsletter provides Tennessee’s small businesses with updates, reminders, tips, and resources related to environmental topics that may affect them.

The content of this newsletter is provided for informational purposes only.

You are receiving this email because you are subscribed to the TN Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) Small Business Environmental Assistance Program (SBEAP) newsletter. SBEAP provides free and confidential assistance to Tennessee’s small businesses to help them understand and comply with environmental regulations.

This week is National Small Business Week! Did you know that Tennessee has more than 741,000 small businesses that employ 1.2 million people? In fact, small businesses make up 99.5% of businesses in Tennessee. Thank you for the work you do, small businesses owners and employees!

Here are virtual and/or in-person events happening this week geared toward supporting small businesses. All events are free!

In last month’s newsletter, we focused on the different permit types that the TDEC Solid Waste Management branch issues. Today we’re focusing on what to expect when a small quantity generator of hazardous waste is inspected. Hazardous waste program inspectors will make unannounced visits to a facility. During the inspection, the inspector will:

The inspector will write a report and send to the permit holder about 30 to 45 days after the inspection. If you receive a Notice of Violation (NOV), don’t panic! The NOV will have corrective action items that specify when and what the facility needs to do to return to compliance with the permit. If you’re unsure about an action item, you can always reach out to the inspector to better understand them. Their contact information is usually listed in the last paragraph of the letter.

We’ll be covering common violations seen at facilities next month, so stay tuned!

💡 TDEC has worked with counties across the state to collect household hazardous waste. Since 1993, over 23 million pounds of household hazardous waste have been collected for proper disposal! 

ℹ️ Small business who are VSQGs of hazardous waste are eligible to participate in collection events. To get a quote and schedule an appointment to participate in the event, contact Clean Harbors Environmental Services at 615-643-3170.

Do you have questions about environmental regulations?
Give us a call at 800-734-3619 or send us an email at BGSBEAP@tn.gov.

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