Command completes Vance ESOHCAMP inspection

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Amanda Mills
  • Public Affairs
Vance Air Force Base, Okla. --  Vance Air Force Base was evaluated on its environmental, safety and occupational health compliance from Monday through today.
The Air Education and Training Command Environmental, Safety and Occupational Heath Comp-liance Assessment Management Program team inspected Vance in areas including air, water, fuels, hazardous materials, hazardous waste, natural resources, solid waste, toxic substances, storage tanks, safety and occupational health.
Inspectors ensure Vance is complying with all Air Force, federal, state and local environmental, safety and occupational health standards.
"The ESOHCAMP team identifies non-compliance with the standards in the areas they evaluate," said John Felt Jr., Computer Sciences Corporation environmental branch manager. "The assessment also identifies areas requiring funding needs to AETC."
Some findings from previous inspections included a parts washer lid that was not closed, a hazardous waste drum improperly labeled and the need for a new entomology facility.
"All prior findings have been closed except for the facility, which is currently in the design phase," Mr. Felt said. "The findings identified today will then require corrective measures to be in place within 60 days."
The external ESOHCAMP inspection now runs every three years, with the base environmental ESOHCAMP team performing an internal inspection during the off years. Internal inspections will occur in 2006 and 2007.
"Overall, these inspections help prevent findings," said Mark Buthman, CSC deputy environmental branch manager. "If we self-identify findings, it saves the base from notices of violation, which can bring hefty fines. Thankfully, Vance hasn't had a significant finding since 1991."
Most importantly, ESOHCAMP inspections help Vance be good environmental stewards in the community and the state, Mr. Felt said.
"We strive to maintain compliance to preserve the environment," he said. "And when we aren't compliant, we make sure there are restoration programs to help clean up."