How does one ensure that the QPs role and standards are adequate?
There will be guidelines for Environmental Impact Studies and for Operating Plans. Issues can be pursued through the associations that accredit QPs. The use of QPs in the regulation puts a responsibility on accrediting associations to be diligent in their processes and on dischargers to select their consultants carefully. The ministry will work with stakeholders to develop guidelines, checklists, and other tools to better define QPs and to facilitate their use. E. Effluent Standards There were some questions about effluent standards. Some questioned whether the new minimum expectation for secondary treatment (i.e. BOD 45/TSS 45) applies to all sewage systems in the province. Others had questions about specific contaminants. There is also the issue that a number of local governments have planned to upgrade their facilities, but to a lower standard than specified in the regulation. Now upgrading will be a much bigger step.
