Stormwater Management Tips For Construction Business Owners
Stormwater management is a sometimes overlooked but important safety aspect at any construction site. Failing to monitor construction waste that enters the stormwater system can result in fines or even criminal charges, depending on the municipality. The following guide can help you ensure that all your employees know proper management practices when on a jobsite.
Identify all storm drain and water entry points
Before beginning any job, it is vital that you locate, and if necessary mark, the location of drains or run-off causeways in and around the jobsite. This way nothing is located near these locations that could potentially enter the stormwater system. Keep all paints and chemicals away from these drainage locations so there is time to clean up an accidental spill before it can enter the stormwater system.
Keep spill kits on hand
Accidents will happen on even the most careful site, so make sure everyone is fully trained on spill accident procedures and that spill kits are easily available. These kits contain highly absorbent, non-volatile materials that will collect most of the spill before it can enter a drain or water system. The material must then be collected and disposed of properly after use.
Provide dump areas at each jobsite
An area for dumping site waste is a must to ensure that no one is tempted to pour leftover materials down a drain for a quick cleanup. Make sure there are fluid dump options available for paint, cleaning chemicals, and any other type of waste your site is generating.
Check the storm system in the job area
Some jobsites may already be equipped to handle construction waste in the stormwater system. This is generally in long term work sites, such as near major developments or highway projects. In this case, there is a flocculant system that separates the waste from the stormwater. These systems work by routing stormwater into a retention tank, which is charged with a flocculant. The flocculant causes the waste to filter out and clump together. The water is then routed into a settling pond for the process to complete. The flocculant sinks, and the clear water runs out. Inquire into the practices required for this system if your company wins a bid to work on such a jobsite.
The key to any successful stormwater management system and policy is to make sure all of your employees are fully trained and understand expectations. Remember, you as the company owner may be responsible if proper practices aren't followed. Contact a business, such as TigerFlocUS.com, for more information.