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 a. Management Practices. Many environmental requirements at the platoon level are simply an
extension of the existing unit management practices. The following are considered good management
practices:
Using the Army's Hazardous Substance Management System (HSMS). The HSMS
applies centralized management and strict inventory control to reduce the use and the disposal
requirements for hazardous substances by tracking HM.
Conducting good housekeeping. Good housekeeping is another basic management practice.
It involves areas such as maintenance, operations, and training. An example of good
housekeeping is recycling. Recycling diminishes solid waste and helps eliminate unauthorized
disposal of some types of HW. Another example is monitoring the shelf life of HM. HM
disposal is expensive and carries with it a significant administrative burden. When HM has a
shelf life, use the first-in, first-out (FIFO) rule. This helps to reduce the volume of the disposal
of out-of-date HM.
Using SOPs. SOPs are an effective management practice, requiring soldiers to understand
and follow standard practices. Platoon leaders can ensure that the unit applies a well-written
SOP addressing environmental issues and procedures.
Designating an Environmental-Compliance Officer. Commanders, down to the company,
troop, and battery levels, must designate an ECO. AR 200-1 requires unit commanders to
appoint an ECO in writing and to provide training for the ECO. The ECO coordinates with the
installation environmental staff and ensures that the unit complies with environmental laws
and regulations.
Training. It is essential that all platoon personnel complete environmental-awareness
training. Soldiers who require special environmental training must also be identified and
trained. The installation environmental office and environmental staff assist the subordinate
commanders to determine the specific environmental-training requirements.
Labeling containers. Labeling HM and HW is a legal requirement. The installation or the
shipping environmental guidelines specify the labeling requirements. Materials not
technically classified as hazardous, such as cleaning supplies, lubricants, and paint, must also
be labeled. Each unit must develop and enforce procedures to maintain complete records of
the environmental actions and activities they perform.
b. Maintenance. Unit maintenance activities have significant potential for environmental impact. The
Army has environmental programs that affect maintenance operations in several ways. Some specific
areas of concern are as follows:
Spill Prevention and Response. Army policy and federal law require units to prevent spills
of oil and hazardous substances and to provide prompt response to contain and clean up any
such spills.
HM/HW Storage and Handling. The unit prescribed load list (PLL) section controls
requisitions and receipts for HM and prepares documentation for turn-in of HW.
Refueling. Refueling operations create a significant potential for POL spills and fire hazards.
Units must ensure that their SOP includes adequate procedures to prevent and respond to
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