Environmental Standards Flashcards

What indoor radon level does EPA recommend as the threshold for mitigation?

Answer: 4.0 pCi/L

EPA recommends fixing homes with radon at or above 4 pCi/L and considering mitigation between 2 and 4 pCi/L.

Which feature is part of a passive radon-resistant new construction (RRNC) system?

Answer: A gas-permeable layer under the slab with a sealed vent pipe running through the roof

RRNC combines a gas-permeable aggregate layer, a vapor retarder, sealed openings, and a vent stack through the roof that can later take a fan.

Which federal agency issues permits under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act to fill jurisdictional wetlands?

Answer: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

The Army Corps of Engineers runs the Section 404 dredge-and-fill permit program, with EPA oversight.

A lender requires a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment before land acquisition. Which standard governs it?

Answer: ASTM E1527

ASTM E1527 sets the Phase I ESA practice that satisfies EPA's All Appropriate Inquiries for CERCLA liability protection.

Before demolishing a building, the asbestos NESHAP requires written notice to the regulating agency at least how many working days in advance?

Answer: 10 working days

Demolition notification is due 10 working days before work starts, even when no regulated asbestos is found.

Federally listed endangered species found on a building site fall mainly under which agency?

Answer: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (with NOAA Fisheries for marine species) administers the Endangered Species Act.

Under the federal SPCC rule, a site needs an oil spill prevention plan when its aboveground oil storage capacity exceeds:

Answer: 1,320 gallons

SPCC applies when aggregate aboveground oil storage exceeds 1,320 gallons, counting containers of 55 gallons or more, and there is a reasonable chance of discharge to navigable waters.