In the Field

The Field Services Section investigates complaints/activities associated with outdoor air and water pollution, as well as hazardous waste disposal, dumping of household trash and garbage, indoor air quality, drinking water, abandoned houses, and health nuisance conditions. 

This section also conducts routine investigations of restaurants, permitted solid waste landfills, mulch yards, and recycling facilities, industrial and commercial permitted and un-permitted storm water sites, small quantity generators of hazardous waste, gas stations, and permitted waste water facilities.

Water samples are routinely collected from industrial facilities and municipal sewage treatment plants to determine compliance with State permits.  The Houston Ship Channel and San Jacinto River are monitored monthly with samples collected.  Air samples are taken when warranted.  Violation Notices are issued when regulation infractions are documented.  Follow-up inspections are conducted to verify continued compliance with State rules.   

The Field Services section works closely with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, the City of Houston, Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office, Harris County Constables, and other local governmental agencies to ensure complete resolution of all illegal civil or criminal activities.  Joint investigations are conducted for issues crossing jurisdictional lines.