Chemical spills that contain toxic substances, smoke stacks that spew emissions and uncovered or unprotected outdoor storage or waste areas can contribute pollutants to storm water runoff.
Here are a few tips for preventing harmful contributors to storm water pollution from an industrial site:
- Wash vehicles or equipment in wash bays hooked up to the sanitary sewer. Don’t wash off detergents, oils, and greases into streets or storm drains.
- Divert rainfall runoff from fueling islands by building a canopy or cover over them.
- Any barrels containing potentially hazardous liquids should be stored in a sealed container, inside a building or under cover, and propped up on pallets with secondary containment in case of a spill. Call the Fire Department for fire code specifics.
- Waste and processed water of any type must be discharged to the sanitary sewer.
- Discharge of wastewater to the ground or storm drains is prohibited.
- Hosing off pavements wash pollutants into storm drains that lead straight to the river.
- Educate employees on spill cleanup procedures and have cleanup materials nearby with a spill prevention plan.