DHEC Environmental eNews
April 2021 | View as Webpage
DHEC continues to work with federal, state and local partners as it responds to COVID-19 in South Carolina. As we remain committed to protecting the safety and health of the public during this national and state emergency, DHEC's Environmental Affairs staff is also focused on keeping our customers and stakeholders informed of important events, regulations, meetings, permitting information, and compliance information.
COVID-19 Vaccine Update

All South Carolinians 16 years old and older are now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

With only 29.9% of South Carolinians fully vaccinated, it remains critical to continue following the basic COVID-19 guidelines of wearing masks, staying six feet away from others, getting tested, staying home when you’re sick, and avoiding crowds. Please encourage family, friends and co-workers to get vaccinated.

Visit the Vax Locator to find vaccine sites near you. 
BAQ Updated Modeling Data 

The Bureau of Air Quality (BAQ) has recently updated several sets of modeling data. “Background Concentrations for Modeling Purposes” is used when a compliance demonstration for Regulation 61-62.5, Standard No. 2 is required. As applicable, permit applicants should begin using this data no later than 5/17/2021. The Bureau of Air Quality has also updated the “Pre-processed, NWS Meteorological Data Sets” and the “Digital Terrain Data: National Elevation Dataset (NED)”. This data is used when permit applicants are submitting refined air dispersion modeling using the AERMOD modeling system in order to demonstrate compliance with the ambient air quality standards. As applicable, permit applicants should begin using this data no later than 5/17/2021.

Please contact John Glass if you have any questions concerning this data.
Earth Day

"At DHEC, every day is Earth Day, as our team works together with partners across the Palmetto State protecting and promoting the health of the public and the environment. Our state thrives with its clean air and water and abundant natural resources. This is a day to celebrate the many ways each of us can make a difference in our backyards, businesses, and communities.”  - Myra Reece, Director of Environmental Affairs
New UST Systems - The Installation Inspection Process

After an application for a Permit to Install has been approved, there are a series of phase inspections that contractors are asked to schedule with the central office permitting coordinator. During these inspections, Agency staff (inspector) may not be able to see all installation activities for the day. However, there are basic things that they will observe. Click here for descriptions of each type of phase inspection.
Cross-Connection Control

Public water systems (PWS) in South Carolina have the responsibility of preventing water from unapproved sources from entering the public water supply system. PWS protect the water supply system by developing and maintaining an effective Cross-Connection Control Program, as required by DHEC. To have an effective program, PWS depend on industries and businesses they serve to be knowledgeable and to adhere to their established Cross-Connection Control Program. Click here to find out more about Cross Connection Control and Backflow Prevention including Backflow Assembly Tester Certification. 
World Laboratory Day

Ever heard of World Laboratory Day? On April 23, we celebrate all the people who work in laboratories. What exactly do these people do that’s so important? They test the water we drink and swim in. They also test our air, soil, fish, dairy, and even some food. Want more information on why we dedicate a day of celebration to the people in our labs? See for yourself. 
 
Join Our Team!
As the state agency charged with promoting and protecting South Carolina's public health and environment, DHEC has a legacy of attracting and retaining talented individuals who want to build rewarding and successful careers. DHEC employs a wide range of environmental professionals from engineers and geologists to inspectors and meteorologists.
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