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.
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Air Quality General & Registration Permits
The Bureau of Air Quality’s Permitting Division has expanded the number of industry sectors and processes now covered under Registration and General Permits. Beyond the simplified application and permit issuance process, the standardized permit conditions are a plus for companies that may have multiple sites in the state. The permits cover some of the more common industry sectors like concrete plants as well as specialty sectors such as autobody refinishing shops. For more information and a list of available permits, click here.
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COVID-19 Vaccine Update
South Carolina is in vaccination Phase 1a, which includes health care workers, long-term care residents and staff, and people age 65 and older. As we wait for the next phase to start, businesses can begin planning now to prevent vaccination delays. Note that until Phase 1b opens, you cannot make vaccine appointments even for frontline essential workers.
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Water Utilities & Cybersecurity
Due to a recent cyberattack on a water treatment plant in Florida, considerable attention and communication is being shared with water and wastewater utilities. It is very important for water and wastewater utilities to be aware, protected, and prepared to respond to a cyberattack.
To help you stay informed, the Bureau of Water has created a cybersecurity webpage where you can find additional information and resources.
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Food Safety Program Recognized as Outstanding Community Leader of 2021
The SC Restaurant & Lodging Association (SCRLA) recently presented the Food Safety Program in the Bureau of Environmental Health Services with the Outstanding Community Leader Award. The program was recognized for their collaborative efforts with SCRLA while navigating the pandemic.
In response to COVID-19, the Food Safety Program:
- Helped develop guidance for restaurant reopening;
- Implemented virtual inspections; and
- Assisted in developing and launching the Palmetto Priority Seal of Commitment.
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Wastewater Program Now in ePermitting
To comply with these requirements, our customers are required to create an ePermitting account and have the account linked to the permit.
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Want to Show Your Septic Tank Some Love?
Committing a little attention to the care of your onsite wastewater system can help keep your system working properly for years to come.
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Regulatory Updates
As we work to continuously improve our regulations, please note the following are
currently in the regulatory development process.
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Raw Milk for Human Consumption
DHEC is proposing to revise Regulation 61-34, Raw Milk for Human Consumption. Amendments include adding provisions to allow for the further processing of raw milk into buttermilk, kefir, and cream as well as food safety improvements and other changes as deemed necessary. Corrections for internal consistency, clarification, reference, punctuation, codification, formatting, and spelling to improve the overall text of Regulation 61-34 will also be made.
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Pasteurized Milk & Milk Products
DHEC is proposing to revise Regulation 61-34.1, Pasteurized Milk and Milk Products. Amendments will update the current regulation to change from referencing the 2013 Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO) to the 2019 PMO. This update to reference the 2019 PMO is necessary to allow for the continuation of interstate commerce of Grade “A” dairy products produced in SC. Corrections for internal consistency, clarification, reference, punctuation, codification, formatting, and spelling to improve the overall text of Regulation 61-34.1 will also be made along with other changes as deemed necessary.
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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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