Biosolids Environmental Management System (EMS)

 

An EMS is a modern management approach based on continual improvement and is used to develop, implement, and monitor environmentally sustainable practices. Our EMS will help our operations to be more efficient, responsive, and protective of the environment. The EMS also depends on public input from interested parties and external oversight from independent auditors who verify that we are effectively managing our environmental and community health impacts. Implementing an EMS is voluntary and not required by any law or regulation. The City of Grand Rapids Environmental Services department chooses to participate in this process voluntarily so that together we can improve our performance by practicing the concepts of continual improvement to make our operation better. Every employee plays a vital role and contributes to our overall success when their job is performed to the best of their ability. The following mission statement sets the standard we should strive to achieve in our Biosolids processing operations.
 

"It is the goal of the City to manage biosolids processing, handling, and final
disposal in a manner which meets public acceptance and to produce a product that complies with all state and federal regulatory requirements."

 

 

Code of Good Practice

COMPLIANCE: To commit to compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local requirements regarding production at the wastewater treatment facility, and management, transportation, storage, and use or disposal of biosolids away from the facility.
PRODUCT: To provide biosolids that meet the applicable standards for their intended use or disposal.
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM: To develop an environmental management system for biosolids that includes a method of independent third-party verification to ensure effective ongoing Biosolids operations.
QUALITY MONITORING: To enhance the monitoring of Biosolids production and management practices.
QUALITY PRACTICES: To require good housekeeping practices for biosolids production, processing, transport, and storage, and during final use or disposal operations.
CONTINGENCY AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLANS: To develop response plans for unanticipated events such as inclement weather, spills, and equipment malfunctions.
SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND OPERATIONS: To enhance the environment by committing to sustainable, environmentally acceptable biosolids management practices and operations through an environmental management system.
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE: To prepare and implement a plan for preventive maintenance for equipment used to manage biosolids and wastewater solids.
CONTINUAL IMPROVEMENT: To seek continual improvement in all aspects of biosolids management.
COMMUNICATION: To provide methods of effective communication with gatekeepers, stakeholders, and interested citizens regarding the key elements of each environmental management system, including information relative to system performance.
 

Information (PDF's)

EMS Manual (PDF's)

Biosolids Additional Resources

The City encourages public participation as part of its continual improvement practices. If you have any comments or suggestions you can contact us at the link below.

Comment / Suggestion Form