CESSWI Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the CESSWI Review Session and Exam Workbook are available through CESSWI, Inc. Click here for ordering information. Click here to view the Table of Contents for the workbook.

How can I gain PDU's (Professional Development Units)?

Refer to the Professional Development Requirements on our Home Web Page.

How can our organization sponsor the CESSWI Review Course and Exam?

To sponsor a CESSWI Exam Review Course and Exam, the first step is to contact the CESSWI, Inc. Administrative Office. Provide the contact information, location and projected dates date(s). An Instructor will be assigned and the Instructor will contact the sponsor to coordinate the presentation of the course and exam. The event will be posted on the CESSWI Calendar when information and date(s) is confirmed. The event must be posted to our calendar at least 60 days prior to the scheduled session(s).

How do I become a CESSWI?

Complete the CESSWI Application and return it to CESSWI, Inc with the application Fee. Your application will be reviewed by appointees of the Application Review Committee. This process takes approximately 30 days, but could take as long as 45 days. Once your application is approved, you will have one year to write the exam. See the CESSWI Exam Review Outline for syllabus of the CESSWI Exam Review.

How do I submit my application?

Applications may be downloaded from our web page or may obtained by contacting the CESSWI Administrative Office.

Candidates must submit their application along with the required fee. Following application review and approval, candidates must complete a written examination to demonstrate their knowledge of the basic inspection skills for erosion, sediment and storm water related construction projects.

How do I become an approved Instructor?

Click here to view the procedures for becoming an approved Instructor.

How do I move from being a CESSWI In-Training to Full Certification?

See the Achieving Full CESSWI Status; Article III, Section 4 of the CESSWI Certification Procedures and Standards.

How long is it required that I maintain my PDU's (Professional Development Units) files for each year?

CESSWI Registrants are to keep PDU files for two (2); three (3) year cycles equaling a total of six (6) years.

How much does becoming a Certified Inspector cost?

See Article II. Section 3. Fees of the CESSWI Certification Procedures and Standards.

Is there a class I can take to prepare for the exam?

Yes, please check the calendar of events for currently scheduled classes. Click here to view the course outline.

Is there an exam close my location or in my state?

Keep check on the calendar web-site. Locations and dates are posted as these are confirmed.

Is there a state sign-up 'waiting' list per state?

We are currently working on making this available. This would be a per state sign-up listing for individuals who wish to have a CESSWI Exam Review Class and/or Exam in their state or Region. In order for our office, CESSWI, Inc. to schedule a class and/or exam, a minimum of eight (8) registrants must be signed up.

What are the benefits of becoming a CESSWI?

See Benefits of Certification.

What are the requirements?

See Article II. Section 2. Eligibility Requirements of the Certification Procedures and Standards.

What if I am audited?

If you are to be audited you will receive a Letter of Notification for Audit. You will be audited on one (1) complete three (3) year PDU cycle. Registrants must submit their Professional Development documentation to the Administrative Office within 60 days of receipt of the audit notice. Refer to Professional Development Audit Process.

What is CESSWI?

CESSWI is a program of EnviroCert International, Inc. referred to as CESSWI, Inc. CESSWI, Inc. is a certification program, providing certification in erosion and sediment control, and storm water quality. This program is recognized internationally as a certification body for professionals in the related industry. The CESSWI, Inc. certification program is active throughout the United States, Canada, Malaysia and Australia and is available worldwide. With over 25 years of certification experience, EnviroCert International, Inc. takes pride in offering the CESSWI, Inc. Program.

What is In-Training Status?

Individuals who do not qualify for professional certification under the existing standards (see Article II, Section 2) may apply for CESSWI In-Training Status. In-Training Status allows the individual increased standing, but does not allow them to take personal responsibility (to be in charge) as a CESSWI.

Important!

Applicants must have a minimum of one (1) year of directly-related inspection experience AND a minimum of sixteen (16) hours of related training to qualify for the CESSWI In-Training Status.

Where can I take the exam?

The exam is offered at different events throughout the year in most states. It is always offered at the annual meetings of the IECA and SWCS. Check the program calendar of events for the next location. Locations and dates are added to our calendar as these are confirmed. Contact your Area (state) Representative for additional information.

What is a CESSWI, Inc. Registrant?

A CESSWI Registrant is a recognized specialist in Erosion, Sediment, and Storm Water Inspection. CESSWIs must understanding the minimum requirements for the US EPA National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) storm water permit program and/or Canada's Department of Fisheries and Oceans Requirements.

CESSWI Registrants have demonstrated proficiencies in Site Safety, Communication, Documentation, Inspector Duties, and Plan Management. Additionally, registrants have a full understanding of the following aspects of Best Management Practices (BMPs): Purpose, Objective, Targeted Pollutants, Applications, Limitations, Implementation Considerations, Inspection Criteria, and Maintenance.