Rain that falls onto construction sites is likely to carry away soil particles and other toxic chemicals on construction sites. If stormwater is not properly managed, it can carry these pollutants to our water-ways. Erosion control practices can serve as a first line of defense, minimizing clean up and maintenance costs, and the impacts to water resources caused by soil erosion during active construction.
Pollution Prevention Practices
- Designated fueling and vehicle maintenance area away from streams.
- Remove trash and litter
- Clean up leaks immediately
- Never wash down dirty pavement
- Place dumpsters under cover
- Dispose of all wastes properly
Erosion controls can reduce the volume of soil going into a sediment control device, such as a sediment trap, therefore, “clean out” frequencies are lower and maintenance costs are less. When possible, divert water around the construction site using berms or drainage ditches.
In addition, use pollution prevention and “good housekeeping measures” to reduce the pollution leaving construction sites as well. This can be as simple as minimizing the pollution source’s contact with rain-water by covering it, maintaining a “clean site” by reduction trash and waste, and keeping vehicles well maintained.
