Stormwater Pollution Prevention
Rain Can Carry One Poor Decision Beyond the Fence
Rainwater does not stay where it lands. As it crosses yards, roofs and work areas, it can collect oil, chemicals, waste and sediment before flowing through a drain to surrounding soil or water. A clean-looking drain is therefore an environmental pathway, not a disposal point. Good stormwater control keeps pollutants away from rain, protects the drainage route and responds before contaminated runoff leaves the site.
Controls to confirm
- Identify storm drains, channels, low points and discharge routes before work begins, keep clean rainwater separate from potentially contaminated areas and make the correct drain-protection equipment immediately available.
- Store chemicals, fuels, waste and loose materials closed, covered and within suitable secondary containment away from drains; maintain equipment to prevent leaks and control sediment, wash water and outdoor housekeeping residues at source.
- Inspect exposed areas before and during rain, pause activities that cannot contain polluted runoff, and respond promptly to any sheen, odour, discolouration or uncontrolled flow using the approved spill and environmental-reporting process.
Today’s action
Walk one drainage route today from the work area to its discharge point and correct any unprotected pollutant source, blocked control or missing response equipment.
Reduce Runoff: Slow It Down, Spread It Out, Soak It In · U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Daily HSSE updates
Subscribe for practical HSSE updates.
Subscribe for the daily message, selected HSSE news and occasional new-resource alerts from Worksite Safety Hub.