Are you getting ready to retire or transition out of your environmental compliance role? 

Have you thought about how you will hand off your compliance-related responsibilities to someone new?

For many small businesses, turnover can create compliance challenges — plans get misplaced, waste isn’t properly managed, or key records disappear simply because the knowledge went with the previous person. A smooth transition protects not only your facility’s compliance status but also helps the next person succeed from day one.

How to Prepare for a Change of Role or Retirement

Here is a good starting point to help make sure key information is passed along and your replacement is prepared to continue managing environmental compliance effectively. They should be able to answer the following questions relevant to your facility confidently:

What is your facility’s hazardous waste generator status?

 Knowing your generator status will determine your regulatory responsibilities. 

To Do: 

• Outline the types of hazardous waste generated at the facility, and who handles disposal.
• Document labeling and storage procedures, who collects and transports the waste, how records are maintained, and where they’re stored.
• Note how waste determinations are made — whether through testing, process knowledge, or generator knowledge.

Does your facility have any air quality permits, Small Unit Exemptions (SUEs) or a Permit-by-Rule (PBR)?

To Do:

• Identify all current permits, SUE and/or PBR documentation and where they’re kept.
• Explain any recordkeeping requirements and how they’re currently being maintained.
• Share information and records on the permit application process along with manufacturer’s specification documents for equipment located at the facility.
• If your facility has an air permit, note that a Minor Source Emissions Inventory (MSEI) is likely due within the next three years.
  • Provide details on how to access the reporting system, create an account, review previous submission and how the report is completed.

Does your facility have a stormwater permit and Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP)?

To Do: 

• Show where the plan is stored.
• Summarize annual requirements such as employee training, inspections, and compliance evaluations.
• Make sure the new person knows when the permit expires and how to complete the renewal process.

Does your facility have a wastewater permit or Treatment Agreement with the local water department?

To Do: 

• Provide copies of permits or agreements and describe key requirements.
• Outline the frequency of sampling or monitoring, who performs it, and where records are kept.
• Include any standard operating procedures or contact information for local authorities.

Let us help you with the transition

Preparing the next person to take over your role is one of the best ways to protect your facility from compliance lapses. Don’t let your expertise and institutional knowledge walk out the door with you! A little time spent documenting processes and sharing key details will go a long way toward keeping your facility in compliance and running smoothly. 

Through free, confidential assistance, we can help your facility stay compliant and operate smoothly during the transition. We help you review records, organize documentation, identify compliance gaps, and provide practical guidance to ensure a seamless handoff. 

VERY IMPORTANT: If your facility has previously worked with the IWRC, be sure to share our contact information with the next person responsible for environmental compliance so they can continue receiving our support and maintain ongoing compliance.

Learn more at iwrc.uni.edu and contact us to schedule your free site visit.