When conducting a site inspection, what is the first action a CESSWI should take?

The first action a Certified Erosion, Sediment, & Stormwater Inspector (CESSWI) should take during a site inspection is to conduct a visual assessment. This action is crucial as it allows the inspector to get an initial understanding of the site conditions and identify any noticeable erosion or sediment control issues that may exist. By observing the site visually, the inspector can gather immediate information about the effectiveness of the existing practices, the state of the vegetation, drainage patterns, and any potential areas of concern that need further investigation.

While reviewing project specifications, gathering equipment, or contacting site managers may also be important steps in the inspection process, they are typically carried out after the initial visual assessment. The visual assessment acts as a foundation for the inspection, informing the inspector of what specific areas to focus on moving forward. This process ensures that the inspector is fully aware of the current site conditions and can address any issues effectively, leading to better erosion and sediment control outcomes.