Plans and Manuals

Comprehensive Plans and Manuals: The Backbone of Responsible Environmental Management

Your set of instructions for safely managing operations and emergencies

In today’s complex regulatory environment, having well-crafted and up-to-date environmental plans and manuals is not just a necessity—it's a critical component of responsible business practice. At Latitudes Environmental, we specialize in developing, reviewing, and updating essential documents that help ensure compliance, reduce risk, and promote sustainability.

Our expertise covers a broad spectrum of plans and manuals, including:

  • HSE Manual

  • Environmental Management Plan

  • Environmental Monitoring Plan

  • EPA Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasures Plan (SPCC)

  • EPA Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP, SWP3)

  • Waste Management Plan

  • DOT Pipeline Integrity Management Plan (IMP)

  • DOT Operations, Maintenance, and Emergency Manual (OM&E)

  • Incident Management Plan

  • Public Water System Monitoring Plan

Why Keeping Plans and Manuals Up to Date is Good Business Practice

Maintaining current and comprehensive environmental plans and manuals is more than just a compliance requirement; it is integral to effective risk management and operational efficiency. Outdated documents can lead to non-compliance with regulations, exposing your business to fines, legal liabilities, and potential environmental incidents. On the other hand, regularly updated and meticulously maintained plans and manuals demonstrate a commitment to environmental stewardship, safeguard against unforeseen incidents, and contribute to the long-term sustainability of your operations.

By partnering with Latitudes Environmental, you ensure that your environmental documentation is not only compliant with the latest regulations but also tailored to meet the specific needs of your business. Whether you need to develop new plans or refine existing ones, our team of experts is here to guide you every step of the way, helping you stay ahead of regulatory changes and industry best practices.

HSE Manual

The Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) Manual is a comprehensive document that outlines procedures and protocols to ensure workplace safety and environmental protection. It provides clear guidelines for managing health risks, environmental impacts, and safety hazards across operations. The manual helps organizations comply with relevant regulations and fosters a culture of safety and environmental stewardship, critical for industries with high-risk environments or complex regulatory requirements.

Environmental Management Plan (EMP)

An Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is a strategic document designed to help organizations manage their environmental responsibilities effectively. It outlines specific actions to mitigate potential environmental impacts, ensure regulatory compliance, and promote sustainable practices. This plan provides a structured approach to environmental monitoring, response measures, and ongoing improvements, essential for businesses striving to reduce their environmental footprint and safeguard their operations against compliance risks.

Environmental Monitoring Plan

The Environmental Monitoring Plan details the systematic process of monitoring environmental conditions to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory standards. It identifies key environmental parameters that need to be monitored and establishes procedures for data collection, reporting, and review. This plan is crucial for operations where ongoing environmental monitoring is required, such as in construction, energy projects, or industrial operations, to prevent or mitigate negative environmental impacts.

EPA Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) Plan

The Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) Plan is a regulatory requirement for facilities that store significant quantities of oil or petroleum products. It outlines measures to prevent oil spills, control potential releases, and implement countermeasures in case of a spill. The SPCC Plan ensures compliance with the EPA’s oil pollution prevention regulations and is vital for protecting water bodies from oil contamination. Facilities with bulk oil storage must develop, maintain, and implement this plan to avoid environmental and legal repercussions.

EPA Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP/SWP3)

The Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), also known as SWP3, is a key regulatory document for construction and industrial sites. It helps identify potential pollutants that could be carried by stormwater runoff and outlines specific control measures to prevent contamination of nearby water bodies. By adhering to this plan, companies can ensure compliance with the EPA’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) regulations, minimize environmental risks, and avoid costly penalties associated with water pollution.

Waste Management Plan

A Waste Management Plan is designed to guide the handling, storage, and disposal of waste materials in a safe, compliant, and environmentally responsible manner. It outlines procedures for managing different waste streams, including hazardous waste, and ensures compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. This plan is essential for any organization that generates waste, enabling them to reduce environmental risks, improve resource efficiency, and maintain regulatory compliance in waste management practices.

DOT Pipeline Integrity Management Plan (IMP)

The Pipeline Integrity Management Plan (IMP) is a critical document for operators of pipelines regulated by the Department of Transportation (DOT). It outlines the processes for maintaining the integrity of pipeline infrastructure, focusing on preventing leaks, corrosion, and other issues that could compromise safety and operational reliability. The IMP ensures compliance with DOT regulations and industry standards, helping operators protect public safety, reduce environmental risks, and avoid costly operational failures or penalties.

DOT Operations, Maintenance, and Emergency (OM&E) Manual

The Operations, Maintenance, and Emergency (OM&E) Manual is a detailed guide required for operators of pipelines regulated by the Department of Transportation. It sets out procedures for the safe operation and maintenance of pipelines, along with emergency response protocols in the event of an incident. The OM&E Manual ensures that operators adhere to best practices and regulatory requirements, supporting the safe and efficient functioning of pipeline systems and providing clear guidelines for incident management.

Incident Management Plan

An Incident Management Plan outlines the steps that an organization must take in response to emergencies such as spills, accidents, or other operational incidents that could pose a risk to human health or the environment. It provides clear procedures for mitigating the impacts of incidents, reporting them to regulatory agencies, and restoring safe operations. This plan is essential for organizations to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, protect their employees and the environment, and minimize the operational and reputational impacts of incidents.

Public Water System Monitoring Plan

The Public Water System Monitoring Plan is a regulatory document that ensures compliance with drinking water standards for public water systems. It specifies the procedures for testing and monitoring water quality, ensuring that it meets the standards set by local, state, and federal regulations. This plan is crucial for municipalities and organizations that manage public water systems, as it helps safeguard public health and ensures consistent water quality through regular monitoring and reporting.

At Latitudes Environmental, we are committed to helping businesses and organizations achieve and maintain compliance with regulatory requirements while promoting a safe and sustainable working environment. Whether you need assistance with Public Water System Monitoring Plans, HSE Manuals, or SWPPP Manuals, you can rely on our team of experts to deliver practical and effective solutions tailored to your specific needs.

With our extensive experience and dedication to excellence, Latitudes Environmental is your trusted partner for Plans and Manuals services. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you enhance safety, mitigate risks, and protect the environment.

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Recent Projects

  • SWP3/SWPPP – Specialty Concrete Batch Plant

    Latitudes Environmental filed a Notice of Intent, and prepared a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWP3/SPPP) for a specialty concrete batch plant in West Texas. Permit coverage was required under TXG110000- General Permit to Discharge Water from a Concrete Production Facility. Plan elements included an inventory of exposed materials, pollution prevention measures, sampling protocols, periodic inspections, employee training, and a drainage map. The General Permit was reissued by the TCEQ November 7, 2021, which prompted us a new NOI and SWP3 revision.

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  • HSE Manual – Onshore Oil and Gas Operator

    Latitudes prepared an HSE Manual for an exploration and production company that operates approximately 1,250 oil and gas wells in Texas and New Mexico. The Manual addresses all operational risks, and is comprised of policies and procedures for safe practices. Specific content for the Manual was developed based on our comprehensive experience working in the E&P industry. Additional content and best practices were adopted from state agency publications, trade organizations, and other E&P Operators. OSHA General Industry Standards (29 CFR Part 1910) were also reviewed for applicability and inclusion. Forms and Checklists were developed to supplement the various management system commitments. For example, certain scheduled tests and inspections of wellsites have standard checklists; oil spill reporting employs a standard form.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Plans and manuals are comprehensive documents that outline procedures, guidelines, and instructions for managing projects, ensuring safety, meeting regulatory compliance, and responding to emergencies.

  • They are essential for ensuring that operations are conducted safely and in compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and for guiding actions in emergency situations.

  • Common types include safety manuals, environmental management plans, operation and maintenance manuals, and emergency response plans.

  • An effective safety manual should include a clear outline of safety policies, procedures for identifying and managing risks, emergency procedures, and training requirements.

  • It should detail procedures for managing environmental impacts, compliance with environmental laws, monitoring and reporting requirements, and sustainability initiatives.

  • Regular updates are necessary to reflect changes in laws, regulations, procedures, and operational practices, typically on an annual basis or after significant changes to operations.

  • Responsibility typically lies with management, safety officers, environmental managers, or specialized consultants, depending on the document's focus.

  • Employees should be familiar with the contents, follow the outlined procedures, and participate in training sessions.

  • Regularly review legal and regulatory updates, conduct compliance audits, and incorporate necessary changes into your plans and manuals.

  • Digital distribution via email or an intranet, along with hard copies in accessible locations, ensures that all staff have access to the documents.