Our staff inspect a wide range of commercial, municipal, and industrial operations, including manufacturing, waste management, healthcare, and retail establishments. Inspections are almost always unannounced. Facilities are selected for inspection based on a range of factors including: 

• Inspection requirements identified in law
• Grant commitments for implementing federal programs
• Compliance history
• Complaints or referrals by other agencies

Our staff typically reviews relevant records during an inspection. In some instances, a site owner or operator may be contacted after an inspection to provide additional records. Types of records that may be requested include: 

• Waste manifests and shipping documents
• Waste characterization records
• Land Disposal Restriction forms
• Employee training records
• Inspection records
• Contingency Plan
• Waste transportation documents
• Environmental monitoring records

A site inspection typically consists of a visual inspection of the facility and surrounding areas, and a review of relevant records. Some inspections may also involve measurements of piles or sampling of water, soil, waste, or other materials. Most inspections involve the following steps: 

1. Arrival and Opening Meeting: Staff introduces themselves and identifies the purpose of the visit.
2. Walk-Through: Staff inspects the facility by observing operations and waste/material management areas, interviewing facility staff, collecting samples, and/or reviewing records. They may document their observations with written or recorded notes, photos, and videos. Use of drones during an inspection must be approved by the facility in advance.
3. Closing Meeting: Staff discusses their observations, initial findings, and anticipated next steps.
4. Post Inspection Follow-up: Staff will send an email or written letter, often transmitted via email, to document the inspection findings, and if needed, identify any actions that are needed to address violations.