CESSWI - Certified Erosion, Sediment, and Storm Water Inspector Stormwater Runoff Management Questions and Answers

Question 1

A key principle of construction sequencing for minimizing erosion is to perform which of the following actions FIRST?

Accepted Answer

Install perimeter controls and sediment barriers before mass grading begins.

Answer

Begin mass grading and clearing to establish the site footprint quickly.

Answer

Stabilize all finished slopes with permanent vegetation immediately after they are cut.

Answer

Install utilities and storm drain infrastructure across the entire site.

Question 2

An inspector observes a dewatering operation where water from an excavation is being pumped through a geotextile filter bag. The bag is placed on a steep, un-stabilized slope and appears to be more than 75% full. Which of the following represents the MOST significant compliance concern?

Accepted Answer

Discharge from the bag could cause severe erosion on the un-stabilized slope.

Answer

The bag is nearly full and may be close to its capacity, reducing efficiency.

Answer

The filter bag is not designed to be used on sloped surfaces.

Answer

The pumping rate may exceed the manufacturer's specifications for the bag.

Question 3

What is the primary function of adding flocculants, such as polyacrylamide (PAM), to sediment-laden stormwater runoff?

Accepted Answer

To bind fine, suspended sediment particles together into larger clumps (flocs) that settle out more quickly.

Answer

To disinfect the water by neutralizing bacteria and pathogens.

Answer

To neutralize the pH of acidic or alkaline runoff.

Answer

To create an impermeable chemical barrier on the soil surface to prevent further erosion.

Question 4

An inspector is reviewing a construction site in an arid region that has received no rainfall for over a month. The SWPPP allows for a reduced inspection frequency under these conditions. According to typical EPA CGP guidance for arid areas, what is the appropriate inspection schedule?

Accepted Answer

Inspections can be reduced to once per month and within 24 hours of a specified storm event.

Answer

Inspections can be suspended entirely until the next rainfall event.

Answer

Inspections are required once every seven calendar days, regardless of rainfall.

Answer

Inspections must be conducted twice per month on a fixed schedule.

Question 5

What is the fundamental difference between a temporary construction phase BMP and a post-construction BMP?

Accepted Answer

Temporary BMPs are designed to be removed after final stabilization, whereas post-construction BMPs are permanent features for long-term stormwater management.

Answer

Temporary BMPs are always structural, while post-construction BMPs are non-structural.

Answer

Post-construction BMPs are only required for projects over 50 acres.

Answer

Post-construction BMPs focus solely on erosion control, while temporary BMPs focus on sediment control.

Question 6

A CESSWI is inspecting a site where the contractor has begun dewatering an excavation pit that has accumulated stormwater. The water is being discharged directly into a nearby storm drain inlet. According to the EPA's 2022 CGP, what is a required inspection frequency for this specific activity?

Accepted Answer

Once per day on any day there is a dewatering discharge.

Answer

Once every 7 days, concurrent with the routine site inspection.

Answer

Only after a rainfall event of 0.25 inches or more.

Answer

Once at the beginning of the operation and once at the end.