Underground Injection Control Program
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The Underground Injection Control (UIC) Program is designed to prevent ground water contamination from injection wells. Most injection wells are relatively simple devices used to place fluids into the shallow subsurface under the force of gravity. Examples include sumps, drywells, and drainfields. The threat posed to ground water quality depends mostly upon the volume and nature of the fluids injected, well construction, and the hydrogeologic setting. The federal UIC regulations and additional state requirements are based upon a protective performance standard. Check out our UIC frequently asked questions for more information.
| UIC Manuals and Guides |
EPA's Onsite Wastewater System Treatment Manual (OWTS) - This manual complements the "Design Manual for Onsite Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Systems" (EPA-625/180-012) that was originally published in 1980. The Manual provides the latest information on onsite system management, siting, design, installation, maintenance, monitoring and replacement. It is designed to help users assess and select the best and most suitable sets of technologies and techniques that are appropriate for local site specific conditions. The manual was written to promote the use of an integrated risk/performance-based approach to OWTS design. Information on OWTS cost and effectiveness has been included.
Small Entity Compliance Guide: "How the New Motor Vehicle Waste Disposal Well Rule Affects Your Business" (33pp, 460K) -
This guide provides information about motor vehicle waste fluid management and is available in PDF format. For a CD ROM version of the please contact Kirk Robinson or call him at (206) 553-2104. More information about shallow injection wells.
A video that looks at the real life challenges and successes experienced by three different communities when faced with contaminated drinking water supplies is available to the public. Titled "The Problem with Shallow Disposal Systems," the video explains that shallow disposal systems are a common, but often over-looked source of contamination to drinking water resources. In addition, the video also shows that there are simple and preventative steps a community can take to reduce threats to their water resource without disrupting the community's economy or going into financial debt. For more information about the video or if you would like to order a free copy, please contact Kirk Robinson at (206) 553-2104.
Injection Well Fact Sheets and Reference Documents |