If your facility handles or distributes treated wood products, EPA inspections are more than just a formality—they’re a crucial measure of environmental compliance. Treated wood contains regulated chemical preservatives designed to resist decay, pests, and moisture, but mishandling or improper labeling can pose risks to workers, consumers, and the environment.
Understanding what EPA auditors are looking for can help your business avoid violations, fines, or shutdowns. Here’s a detailed look at the key inspection points and how to prepare for them.
- Proper Labeling and Product Documentation
What auditors look for:
EPA-approved product labels on each piece or bundle of treated wood
Clear and legible consumer information (e.g., end-use restrictions, handling guidelines)
Label consistency across inventory and packaging
How to comply:
Ensure every treated wood product is labeled at the point of treatment or before distribution
Verify that your labels match EPA-registered product claims
Keep sample labels on file for reference and inspection
- Facility Storage and Environmental Controls
What auditors look for:
Storage practices that prevent chemical runoff, soil contamination, or stormwater pollution
Elevated, covered, or curbed storage areas that comply with environmental containment rules
Distance from drains, waterways, and unprotected soil
How to comply:
Store treated wood off the ground and under cover whenever possible
Implement secondary containment around preservative tanks
Regularly inspect outdoor storage areas for compliance with EPA and local environmental codes
- Chemical Handling and Spill Prevention
What auditors look for:
Proper storage and labeling of wood treatment chemicals
Spill containment systems and emergency response plans
Availability of spill kits and trained personnel
How to comply:
Store chemicals in original containers with clear hazard labels
Maintain MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets) for all preservatives used
Train staff in spill response and ensure supplies are always within reach
- Recordkeeping and Reporting
What auditors look for:
Accurate records of treatment processes, chemical usage, and product distribution
Documentation of employee training, inspection logs, and corrective actions
Compliance with any state-specific reporting requirements
How to comply:
Implement a digital recordkeeping system for ease of access and accuracy
Keep at least three years of records unless otherwise required
Conduct internal reviews before inspections to ensure paperwork is complete and current
- Employee Training and PPE Usage
What auditors look for:
Proof of employee training on handling treated wood and preservatives
Proper use of PPE (gloves, eyewear, respirators if required)
Written procedures for safe loading, stacking, and transportation
How to comply:
Conduct regular safety training and document attendance
Post PPE requirements in high-risk areas
Monitor compliance and correct unsafe practices immediately
- Disposal of Waste Materials
What auditors look for:
Proper disposal of treated wood waste, sawdust, and chemical containers
Contracts or documentation from approved disposal services
No evidence of illegal dumping or improper incineration
How to comply:
Never burn or landfill treated wood unless explicitly allowed
Work with certified disposal vendors for chemical waste
Maintain records of all waste shipments and disposal methods
- Compliance with FIFRA Regulations
What auditors look for:
Full adherence to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA)
Distribution of only EPA-registered treated wood products
No unauthorized claims or alterations to product labeling
How to comply:
Ensure your treated wood products are registered and approved for sale under FIFRA
Train sales teams to avoid unverified performance claims
Review product literature and marketing materials for compliance
Final Thoughts
EPA inspections can be detailed and demanding—but with preparation, transparency, and ongoing training, your business can meet every requirement with confidence. Auditors want to see not just compliance, but a commitment to environmental responsibility and worker safety.
By understanding what auditors are looking for and taking a proactive approach, you can keep operations running smoothly and build trust with regulators, customers, and your community.
