617_1.storm water guidelines

7/30/2019 617_1.Storm Water Guidelines

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URBAN STORMWATER

BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICE

BUILDING SITES

BASS COAST SHIRE COUNCIL

SOUTH GIPPSLAND SHIRE COUNCIL


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CONTENTS

Page

Why do I Need to Protect our Environment? ........................................................... 1

Planning Before You Start Work on Site .................................................................. 2

Keeping Mud Off Roads .......................................................................................... 3

Litter and Waste Management ................................................................................ 4

Methods to Control Erosion on Site ......................................................................... 6

Catch Drain ............................................................................................................. 6

Early Downpipe Connection .................................................................................... 6

Retain Areas of Vegetation ...................................................................................... 7

Containing Sediments on Site ................................................................................. 7

Stockpiles ................................................................................................................ 8

Sediment Control Barriers ....................................................................................... 9Sediment Control Fencing ....................................................................................... 9

Straw Bale Filter .................................................................................................... 10

Cutting Areas ......................................................................................................... 10

Drain Protection Measures .................................................................................... 11

Gravel Inlet Filter ................................................................................................... 11

Gravel Sausage ..................................................................................................... 11

Sand Bag Sediment Filter ..................................................................................... 12

Methods to Control Run-off from Wash Areas ....................................................... 12

Cleaning Paint Tools .............................................................................................. 13

Concrete Slurry ..................................................................................................... 13

Concrete Mix Trucks .............................................................................................. 13

On Site Toilet ......................................................................................................... 14

On Site Chemical Storage ..................................................................................... 14

Take the Test ......................................................................................................... 15


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Supported By:


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In a natural catchment:- Water falls as rain.

- It infiltrates into the ground.

- It runs down hillsides and slopes or to the lowest point.

- It flows into local creeks and rivers.

- Creeks and rivers eventually empty into the sea.

In an urban catchment:

- Water falls as rain.

- It collects in gutters.

- It runs down roofs and downpipes.

- It washes over footpaths and bitumen roads.

- It flows into stormwater drains where it follows

underground pipes that guide the water into local rivers,

creeks and beaches untreated

What is stormwater

Stormwater originates as rain. Stormwater flows

from roofs, streets and roads into a system of drains

and underground pipes that flow directly into local

rivers, creeks and beaches. Stormwater enters these

waterways untreated.

As stormwater travels across hard surfaces, it

picks up all kinds of pollutants in its path, such as litter,

chemicals and sediments. Contamination of stormwater

can seriously pollute our water environments, killing fish and

other aquatic life.

How is Stormwater Different to the SewerSystem?

The sewer system carries used water from inside

homes and businesses to a treatment plant (or septic

tank) where harmful contaminants are removed before it

is released back into the environment. In contrast, the

stormwater system drains rainwater (and pollutants) from our

streets and washes them directly into our local rivers, creeks

and beaches untreated.

Purpose of this Best Management Practice

GuidelineThis Best Practice Management Guideline details many

simple practices individuals and businesses can employ

to prevent contamination of the stormwater system. The

information is designed to help ensure that stormwater run-

off entering local waterways is clean and free of pollutants.

The information will also help to ensure that individuals and

businesses comply with Council and State Regulations.

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Does a little bit of pollution really affect water quality?

Yes. It doesnt matter how little the spill is, allowing a drum to leak oil, washing a car in the street, hosing footpaths,

allowing bins to overflow or allowing chemicals to run-off into stormwater drains, add up across the catchment to become a

significant source of pollution entering our waterways.

The water on the earth is billions of years old and is continually cycled over and over again.

Of all the water in the world, 97% is salty ocean water, 2% is locked in polar ice and only a very small 1% is fresh water

available for our needs. The amount of water in the world remains constant and never changes. When you consider that

there is only 1% of fresh water available for use and we need to use the same 1% of water over and over again, it makes

sense not to pollute such a vital commodity.

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WHY DO I NEED TO PROTECT OUR ENVIRONMENT?

(1) To ensure continued enjoyment of our

environment

Polluted run-off from a number of building sites can

have a considerable impact on the quality of stormwater

entering rivers, creeks and beaches through the stormwater

system. Sediment, chemicals and litter from building sites

can pollute stormwater and can result in fish kills, unsafe

swimming conditions, toxins accumulating in aquatic animals

in the food chain, and degraded waterways and recreation

areas.

(2) To benefit you the builder

A well-organised site has less loose material lyingaround causing a hazard. This reduces health and

safety issues on a building site, reduces clean-up costs,

and helps to keep waste and sediment out of the

stormwater system.

Your site will look good, which is good for attracting

new customers and for pleasing your client.

Downtime is reduced with all weather site access and

improved wet weather working conditions. This saves

you time and money.

(3) Its the law

Builders, suppliers and sub-contractors face

penalties for littering and allowing waste to enter thestormwater system under both council local law and the

state Environmental Protection Act (1970). The developer,

landowner or person managing the building site all have the

responsibility of preventing the discharge of sediment, litter

and builders waste from the property and making sure that

stormwater is not polluted.

HOW CAN I PROTECT OUR ENVIRONMENT

This booklet will take you through eight site rules and

show you how to control sediment, waste and litter on your

work site.

8 SITE RULES TO KEEP STORMWATER CLEAN

SITE RULE 1 Plan before you start work on site

SITE RULE 2 Keep mud off road and on site

SITE RULE 3 Keep litter and waste contained

on site

SITE RULE 4 Stop erosion on and off site

SITE RULE 5 Place stockpiles and contain

sediments on site

SITE RULE 6 Clean and wash up on site

SITE RULE 7 Have an on site toiletSITE RULE 8 Have a chemical storage area

on site

ISSUE: SITE PLANNING

Site litter, paint, solvent, brick,

plaster, cement, cleaningsubstances, and stockpiles of

soil, sand and screenings can

all contaminate local waterways

if they get into the stormwater

system.

It is illegal to allow sediment,

litter and other buildingmaterials to spill or leak or

otherwise leave the premises

in an uncontrolled manner.

A healthy natural catchment

Polluted beaches and

waterway

Aquatic habitats

and recreation areas

destroyed

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SITE RULE 1: Plan before you start work on site

QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE YOU START

Where is the lowest point on the site?

Water always runs to the lowest point. This is the

point where the land will allow water to carry sediment

off the building site and is an area that is likely to be wet

and muddy. It is important to know where this point is

when planning your site as it will affect where you put your

stockpile materials, sediment fence, wash down area and

crushed rock crossover etc.

Where will I put the crushed rock / gravel crossover?

A crossover is used to provide a dry access point for

vehicles.

Locate the crushed rock / gravel crossover away from

the lowest point.

Where will I place the stockpiles?

Locate stockpiles on the building site, away from the

lowest point and drainage lines.

Where will I build a sediment control fence?

Sediment control fencing should be built on the lowest

side/s of a site. This is the point where the land will allow

water to carry sediment off the building site.

Which trees and vegetation will I keep on site?

Grassed areas used in combination with sediment

fencing will help to reduce soil erosion and sediment coming

off site. It is important to protect vegetation in areas close to

the boundary, the lowest point, drains and gutters. Rope or

fence off the areas of vegetation you are going to keep on

site.

Why fence my site?

Site fencing provides some protection against theft,helps to keep building activities to the site, stops movement

of litter and helps to keep the work area safe by stopping

members of the public wandering on site.

Have I organised an on-site toilet and waste bin?

A toilet and waste bin is required on site before any

building activities can commence.

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ISSUE: MUD ON ROADS

SITE RULE 2: Keep mud off roads and on site

Why is mud a problem?

1. Mud tracked onto public roads and footpaths makes

them slippery and dangerous.

2. Mud and sediment wash into stormwater drains, which

can cause drain blockages and flooding and will pollute

local waterways.

METHODS TO CONTROL MUD

The following simple methods will help you to prevent

vehicles tracking mud from tyres onto the road and into

stormwater.

Control Method 1: Build a gravel or crushed rock

crossover

To provide a dry access point for vehicles, construct a

crushed rock/gravel access point on your site.

To construct a crossover: remove the top layer of soil

at least 3 metres wide from the road or kerb to the nearest

building line. Use road base or 30 mm aggregate to a depth

of 200 mm. Ensure that the crushed rock / gravel does not

collect in the gutter or on the footpath.

Control method 2: Keep to crushed rock path

Only drive where you need to. Keep to a set path

(preferably on crushed rock) and restrict site access to the

one stabilised access point.

Control Method 3: Remove mud from tyres

Use a shovel to remove mud from vehicle tyres before

leaving the site.

Control Method 4: Clean road

Mud tracked onto roads, or spills of soil and othermaterials onto the road, should be removed upon

completion of the days work or immediately if its raining or

likely to rain. Use a broom, shovel and wheelbarrow and put

it back on site. Do not use a hose.

Drain blockages and

urban flooding

Remove mud from tyres before leaving site

Remove sediment from road and

place back on site

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ISSUE: LITTER AND WASTE MANAGEMENT

SITE RULE 3: Keep litter and waste contained on site

Why is litter and waste a problem?

1. Building rubble, litter and other rubbish spread across

building sites cause many problems, including an

unsafe work environment. This could increase the

chance of legal and public liability problems.

2. Litter blowing off site can block stormwater drains.

3. Litter will pollute local creeks and rivers and eventually

find its way to local beaches.

METHODS TO CONTROL LITTERThe following simple methods will help you to prevent

litter leaving your site or being a hazard on site.

Control Method 1: Litter Bins and Waste Receptacles

(a) Provide waste receptacles on site.

Waste receptacles must be able to contain waste

securely and prevent its discharge to the environment.

(b) Store waste receptacles within the property boundary.

The receptacle should have a suitable lid or cover to

prevent the escape of windblown material.

(c) Use suitable receptacles.

A mesh bin is suitable for containing larger items suchas cardboard boxes, plastic wrapping and polystyrene.

Mesh size should be no larger than 50mm.

(d) Place receptacles in appropriate locations,

particularly where food is consumed.

A domestic bin is suitable for smaller rubbish such as

paper, food wrapping and drink containers.

(e) Empty waste receptacles regularly.

Do not allow them to overflow. Keep recyclables and

materials for reuse in separate waste receptacles.

Control Method 2: Site Fencing

Litter and waste must be confined to the site. Site

fencing will help to contain litter and prevent it being carriedoff site by wind or water. Site fencing should be 1800 mm

high with mesh size no larger than 50mm. Fencing should not

be the sole litter containment measure.

Site fencing provides several other benefits including:

Some protection against theft

Helps to keep building activities to the site

Prevents the movement of litter and

Helps to keep the work area safe by stopping members

of the public wandering on site

Control Method 3: Reduce Waste

One third of all waste going into landfill comes from

construction and demolition sites. This waste includes:

bricks, tiles, concrete, soil, timber, packaging, plaster,

metals, polystyrene and vegetation.

Up to 10% of a building or construction jobs cost can

be lost in waste.

One third of waste going to

landfill comes from construction

and demolition sites.

Drain blockages and urban flooding

Separate wastes for recycling

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ISSUE: LITTER AND WASTE MANAGEMENT(CONTINUED)

THERE ARE A NUMBER OF WAYS A BUILDER

CAN CUT OUT WASTE:

(a) Plan ways to reduce waste before you start the job

Make a list of all the things you are going to do to

reduce waste or to reuse or recycle materials on the job.

Decide who will be responsible for these actions.

(b) Design and order only what you need.

Design to standard sizes as this reduces waste. Dontover estimate the materials you will need. Negotiate with

suppliers to take back unused materials. Negotiate for

delivery of supplies on an as needs basis.

(c) Use prefabricated products.

Buy prefabricated products such as frames and trusses

whenever possible. This greatly reduces waste

(d) Team up with other builders to recycle

If you are building on an estate you may be able to

share skip hire costs with other builders.

(e) Separate materials for recycling

Separate materials for recycling. Ask bin hire

companies and recycling contractors to supply clearly

marked bins.

Materials may be sorted into cardboard, plastic, metal

and wood for recyclers in your area. Check the local transfer

stations/tips for recycling services. Remember there is no

charge to dispose of most sorted recyclable materials at

transfer stations and tips. Recycling your waste can save

you money.

Separate and recycle waste

where you can:

Cardboard

Plastic

Metal

Wood

Concrete

Tiles

Bricks

Soil

Sand

There is no charge to disposeof sorted recyclable materials

at tips and transfer stations.

Its free.

WASTE ACTION PLANAction Person

Responsible

1.Ask your waste contractor to assist you

with waste minimisation. Involve staff in

identifying solutions and motivate staff to

commit to waste reduction.

2. Segregate wastes wherever possible - this

will aid recycling. Label or colour code bins to

indicate each bins purpose i.e. Metal, Timber

& General. Know what can be recycled.

3. Identify waste reduction opportunities i.e.Design & order only what you need, dont

overestimate materials needed.

4. Place a lidded domestic waste bin on site

for smaller rubbish and encourage workers to

place their lunch waste in this bin.

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ISSUE: EROSION ON SITE

SITE RULE 4: Stop erosion on site

METHODS TO CONTROL EROSION

The following simple methods will help you to reduce

the amount of runoff on site that causes erosion and

increases sediment going into the stormwater system.

Control Method 1: Catch drain

A catch drain is an excavated drainage path. Catch

drains can be used to reduce the amount of water travelling

across a sloped surface and flowing through the buildingsite.

To build a catch drain: Dig a trench on the high side of

the site. The trench should be about 150 mm deep with a

curved shape. The trench gradient should be less than 5%.

Place the soil from the trench on the down slope side of the

drain.

Discharge from the catch drain should be diverted onto

a stable grassed area and maintained to prevent erosion.

Effective sediment control measures such as geotextile

fencing or straw bales should be used to collect any silt

loads from the catch drain outlet.

Avoid directing catchdrains into neighbouring

properties, unless written permission is obtained from theland owner/s.

Control Method 2: Early downpipe connection

Connecting downpipes to the stormwater system has a

number of benefits:

1. Less drainage problems on site

2. Reduced site wetness and generation of mud

3. Reduced potential for mud to be transported off site

4. A safer site

5. Less downtime after storms. Projects get finished

sooner.

Aim to have downpipes connected to stormwateras soon as the roof is on. If this is not possible, use a

temporary connection such as flexible tubing.

Control Method 3: Pipe roof water onto a grassed area.

If you cannot connect to stormwater, pipe the water

away from the building onto a vegetated area or where there

is good ground cover. This lets water seep into the ground

with less damage to the surface of the soil.

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Control Method 4: Retain areas of vegetation

Grass and vegetation helps protect the soil from the

effects of rain and surface water by:

Slowing the flow of water across the ground. Increased

water movement will carry more soil particles off site.

Holding the soil together with their root system so that

it cannot be eroded.

Trapping soil particles and filtering out sediments.

Decide what areas of vegetation you are going to keep

on site. Mark trees, shrubs and grassed areas that you are

keeping. Use brightly coloured plastic marker tape to define

the vegetation boundaries. For large areas of vegetation,

use temporary fencing or webbing.

It is important to protect vegetation areas close to the

boundary, drains and gutters, and where surface water flows

may carry sediment off site.

Note:

No vegetation should be felled, destroyed, or pruned

without Council consent, except for vegetation shown to beremoved on an endorsed plan. Do not remove any street

trees or branches. Always contact Council if you have any

concerns regarding street vegetation.

ISSUE: SAND, SOIL AND OTHER SEDIMENTS

LEAVING SITE

SITE RULE 5: Place stockpiles and contain sediment

on site

Stockpiles, concrete and sludge coming off a building

site, and inappropriate location of stockpiles across

footpaths and roads can:

1. Make roads and footpaths slippery and create a hazard

for vehicles and pedestrians.

2. Pollute stormwater, making stream and river water

cloudy which can kill aquatic plants and animals.

3. Cause blockages to the stormwater system increasing

the chance of flooding.

4. Be illegal and attract fines.

Establish and maintain buffers

of dense grasses or ground

cover vegetation, of at least

30m wide, along drainage lines,

the lowest point and areas close

to the boundary.

Be on site for stockpile

deliveries to ensure they are put

in the right place.

ISSUE: EROSION ON SITE(CONTINUED)PP

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METHODS TO CONTAIN SEDIMENT ON SITE

- STOCKPILES

The following simple methods will help you to reduce

the amount of sediment coming off site from stockpiles.

Control Method 1: Stockpile location

Place all stockpile material on site in locations away

from drainage lines, roadsides, channels, culverts and

footpaths. Tell suppliers this when placing your order or be

on site for deliveries to ensure they are put in the right place.

Control Method 2: Stockpile maintenance

Use mulch or sterile grass seed on any topsoil

stockpile that is to be maintained for longer than 28 days.

Alternatively, cover stockpiles with tarpaulins in times of high

wind or storms.

Control Method 3: Protect stockpiles

A catch drain located up slope of the stockpile, used

together with sediment control fencing down slope of the

stockpile, is an effective measure against sediment run-off.

Avoid large stockpiles with steep sides, as they are

particularly vulnerable to erosion. The maximum height to

width ratio of the stockpile should be 2:1.

Control Method 4: Permit RequirementsIn some cases it may be impossible to store stockpiles

on site. To place stockpiles across a footpath, nature strip or

road will require a permit as these are council assets.

WHEN UNABLE TO STORE STOCKPILES ON SITE

How do I safely store materials off-site?

To store a stockpile off site and on Council land,

contact the Council to make sure that you have the

appropriate Council permits.

Stockpiles stored offsite must be stored in a way that

does not result in sediment discharge into drains, gutters or

the stormwater system.Stockpiles can be contained offsite in storage bins, mini

skips or covered with a suitable tarpaulin and sand bags.

Drain protection controls prevent sediment from

entering the stormwater system. Drain protection control

measures such as gravel inlet filters, sand bags and gravel

sausage filters can be used around stormwater drain inlets

when storing materials off site.

Remove sediment off road and place back on site

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METHODS TO CONTAIN SEDIMENT ON SITE

SEDIMENT BARRIERS

Use sediment control measures to prevent the

movement of sediment from the site onto roads and into

the stormwater system. Sediment control measures should

be installed before construction begins. The most efficient

sediment barrier for building sites is specifically manufactured

geotextile sediment fencing. Filter cloth or shade cloth

should not be used.

Control Method 1: Sediment control fences

Install sediment control fencing to prevent sediment

from being washed off site.

TO BUILD A SEDIMENT CONTROL FENCE:

a) Identify the low point of site.

This is the point where the land will allow water to carry

sediment off the building site. Sediment fencing should be

located down-slope of surface disturbance.

b) Put in star pickets.

Put 1500 mm star pickets at least 3000 mm apart and

600 mm deep.

c) Dig a trench along the sediment control fence line.The trench should be 150 mm deep. The trench will be

used to bury the base of the sediment control fabric (A).

Alternatively, use backfill or aggregate to make sure the

fabric is tight on the ground. Then check that water cannot

go underneath the fabric (B).

d) Fix geotextile to posts.

Geotextile material is specially designed to allow water

to pass through but traps sediment.

Use wire ties to attach the geotextile to the upslope

side of the fence posts. Always join fabric at the star pickets

with a 150 mm overlap.

e) Spread volume of water.

If the length of the sediment fence is longer than 20

metres, put one star picket 1500 mm up-slope of the others

at 20 m intervals. This will spread the volume of water that

flows through each section of fence.

Control Method 2: Straw bale filters

Straw bale filters are an alternative to geotextile fabric.

Strawbale filters prevent sediment from being washed off

site. Use strawbales to make your filter do not use hay

because it can spread weeds.

Sediment control fence

Geotextile sediment control fence

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TO BUILD A STRAW BALE FILTER:

a) Identify the low point of site.

This is the point where the land will allow water to carry

sediment off the building site. Sediment fencing should be

located down-slope of surface disturbance.

b) Dig a trench

Dig a trench 100 mm deep to stop water running under

the straw bale. The trench should be as wide as the straw

bale and as long as needed along the contour lines of the

block.

c) Put the bales along the trench line.

Put the bales lengthways along the trench. Use strawto fill any gaps between bales.

Place bales on their side rather than top and bottom,

as they will hold together better when wet.

d) Spread volume of water.

If the bale fence is longer than 20 m, turn one bale so

that it faces the slope every 20 metres. This will spread the

volume of water that flows through each section of fence.

e) Fix straw bales in place

Fix the bales in place using two 1.2 m star pickets

at each end of each bale. Angle one stake towards thepreviously laid bale before driving it 600 mm into the ground.

Put the other stake in vertically.

f) Backfill the trench

Backfill and compact the trench to ground level on the

down slope side of the straw bales.

On the upslope side, build up the soil to 100 mm. This

will slow down the speed of the water flow and trap coarse

sediments.

Note: Due to the decomposing nature of straw bales,

bales generally require replacement approximately

every 3 months

Control Method 3: Control dust and slurry from cutting

A large amount of dust can be made from cutting

materials such as concrete, bricks and tiles. When mixed

with water this slurry material can wash of site and into

waterways.

The following methods will help keep slurry on site and

out of waterways:

a) Cut materials on site

Choose a set area to do all your cutting. This area

should be on the building site and away from all stormwaterdrains.

b) Put sediment control filters down slope

Sediment control fences and straw bale filters should be

placed down slope of the cutting area to catch cutting slurry.

All pollution control measures

should be inspected on a

regular basis and maintained or

repaired to ensure their ongoing

effectiveness.

Straw bale sediment control fence

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c) Use a gravel sausage, upstream sandbags or

gravel inlet filterWhen cutting must take place near stormwater

drains, use gravel sausages, sandbags or gravel inlet filters

described below to protect stormwater drains.

d) Clean up when finished

When you have finished cutting, clean your equipment

in the cutting area.

Remove the slurry at the end of the job using a shovel

and broom. Do not hose the slurry away.

Allow the slurry to dry and dispose of as hard waste in

a skip bin.

TO BUILD A GRAVEL INLET FILTER:

a) Cover the opening with wire mesh

Put a wire mesh with 12 mm openings over the

stormwater side entry pit opening. Make sure the mesh

goes at least 300 mm beyond the side, bottom and top of

the pit openings.

b) Cover the mesh with gravel

Put 25-40 mm gravel against the mesh to anchor

it against the gutter. It should cover the inlet openings

completely.

c) Clean up collected slurry and gravel

Clean the gravel regularly. Do this by clearing it away

or cleaning it on the building site where the slurry can not re-

enter the stormwater system.

Remove the slurry at the end of the job using a shovel

and broom. Do not hose the slurry into the drain.

TO BUILD A FINE CRUSHED ROCK OR GRAVEL

SAUSAGE:

a) Make the sausage sleeve

A gravel sausage is made from a geotextile sleeve filled

with fine crushed rock or gravel. The gravel sausage should

be 150 mm high.

b) Place the sausage across the opening of the inlet pit

Make sure that the sausage is tight with the kerbing on

both sides of the inlet pit.

There should be a 100-mm gap between the front of

the pit and sausage, which extends beyond the grate. Use

wooden blocks or sand bags to keep the 100 mm gap.

c) Clean the gravel sausage filter regularly

When sediment builds up around the gravel sausage,

it should be collected with a shovel and wheelbarrow anddeposited back on site.

Gravel mesh filter

Gravel sausage filter

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TO BUILD A SAND BAG SEDIMENT FILTER:

a) Make the sand bags

A sandbag filter is constructed from sand filled bags.

b) Place the sandbag filter upstream of stormwater

inlet pit

Place the sand bag filter at least 4 metres up-slope

from the stormwater inlet. The filter should overlap from the

kerb out. Sand bag filters should not be placed across the

stormwater side entry drain inlet.

c) Clean the sand bag filter regularly

When sediment builds up around the gravel sausage

or sand bag filter, this should be collected with a shoveland wheel barrow and deposited back on site. Do not hose

sediment into the gutter.

ISSUE: RUN OFF FROM WASHING UP

LEAVING SITE

SITE RULE 6: Clean and wash up on site

Why is washing up a problem?

When cleaning up after painting, plastering or

concreting its important to keep the wash water out of the

stormwater system.Wash water entering stormwater can cause many

problems in the environment:

1. Oil based paints will form a thin film over the surface

of water. This starves aquatic plants and animals of

oxygen.

2. Paints and petro chemicals can contain toxic

compounds. Toxicants can build up in aquatic animals

in the foodchain.

3. Concrete changes the pH of waterways, which can kill

aquatic plants and animals. Concrete washings can

harden and block drains.

4. Roads around a building site can become dirty, slippery

and dangerous.

METHODS TO CONTROL WASHING UP

The following simple methods will help you to stop

contamination of stormwater from paint, plaster or concrete

washings.

Control Method 1: Have a set washing up area

Choose a set area to do all your washing up. This area

should be on the building site and away from all stormwater

drains. The wash-up area should be large enough to

contain water run-off and residue and should slope towardsappropriate sediment controls.

The wash up area can be the same area you have

chosen for tile and brick cutting.

Set up a wash down area with

sediment controls for cleaning

and washing equipment.

Note: Sediment control fencing

will not stop chemicals.

Sandbag filter

Polluted beaches and waterways

Have a set wash up area on site

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Control Method 2: Clean equipment before washing

with waterExcessive water usage can reduce the soakage

capacity of the soil in the wash area. Cleaning equipment

before washing will reduce the amount of water required

for cleaning. Before washing equipment, brush dirt and

mud and scrape excess concrete off. Spin rollers and

wipe paintbrushes onto a rag or newspaper.

Control Method 3: Clean painting tools carefully

Water-based paints can be washed using two

containers of water. Use one container to wash the

brush and the other to rinse it. Allow the first container to

stand overnight to let solids settle. Then drain the wateronto the ground if it is not too dirty and put settled solids

in a bin.

Wash oil based paint equipment in a solvent bath

until clean. Do not pour the solvent on the ground. Filter

the solvent material back into its container for re-use.

Alternatively, contact a waste disposal company for

removal.

Control Method 4: Get rid of concrete slurry on site

Small amounts of concrete slurry can be safely put

in a ditch lined with plastic or geotextile liners. Once the

water evaporates or soaks into the surface, the solids can

then be put into a skip or recycling bin or can be used asroad base.

If the client does not have provisions for managing

excess or residue concrete, it should be sent back with

the delivery truck to the concrete plant.

Control Method 5: Cleaning Concrete Mix Trucks

It is important not to wash concrete mix trucks,

pumps or equipment on roads, footpaths and reserves

or near any waterways or stormwater drains. Wash them

within a designated and contained wash down area on

the site. The wash down area should only be used for

small volumes of wash-down water and is not to be usedas a disposal point.

Thorough truck wash down should take place at the

concrete plant in a wash bay suitably designed to contain

wastewater as per the water authorities trade waste

agreement.

Reuse water wherever possible i.e. back into a

batch or mix process.

Do not allow clean-up and wash

down effluent to escape off-site

and into the stormwater system.

A high pressure, low volume

water spray nozzle conserves

water and reduces maintenance

of sediment controls.

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ISSUE: PATHOGENS ENTERING WATERWAYS

SITE RULE 7: Provide an on site toilet

Why are pathogens a problem?

Human waste entering the stormwater system can

contaminate water supplies and lead to illness.

METHOD TO CONTROL PATHOGENS

Control Method 1: On site toilet

Provide a toilet on site before any building activities

have commenced. The toilet should remain on site for the

duration of the building works and be serviced and cleaned

regularly.

ISSUE: ON SITE CHEMICAL STORAGE

SITE RULE 8: Provision of a dedicated chemical

storage area.

Why is chemical storage a problem?

Leaks and spills from chemical storage areas can

contaminate the stormwater system. Bunding, spill pallets or

safety cabinets should be used on site for chemical storage.

METHOD TO STORE CHEMICALS SAFELY

Control Method 1: Chemical Storage

Store chemicals so that:

1. Recovery of spilt material is possible

2. They are on an impervious base.

3. They are away from stormwater drains and pits.

4. Good operational procedures are used for decanting

5. Absorbent materials such as sawdust and kitty litter or

a chemical spill kit are on hand for cleaning any spills.

6. Lids are kept on containers/drums when they are not

being used.

7. Containers are inspected regularly and replaced if

rusted, damaged or likely to leak.

8. A Material Safety Data Sheet is on hand for every

hazardous substance used on site.

9. They are stored undercover in a bunded area or on a

spill pallet. Bunds should be designed in accordance

with EPA Bunding Guidelines, Publication 347.

Provide a portable toilet on site.

Look under Toilet - Portable in

the Yellow Pages.

sawdust

Decanting device

Spill clean up equipment

Bund

Spill tray

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Take the TestYes

Site Rule 1 Plan before you start work on site

Crossover is away from the lowest point

Sediment control fence is on the lowest side

Stockpiles are on site and away from the lowest point

Trees and vegetation are marked to keep on site

Site Rule 2 Keep mud off road and on site

Crushed rock crossover has been installed

Trucks have been notified to keep to crushed rock areas

Mud is removed from tyres before leaving site

Muddy roads have been cleaned

Site Rule 3 Keep litter contained on site

Litter bin and waste receptacles are on site and used

Litter bin and waste receptacles have closed lids to secure wastes

Litter bin and waste receptacles are emptied regularly

Site Rule 4 Stop erosion on site

Catch drains are constructed on the high side of site

Vegetation areas have been identified and protected

Downpipes have been connected

Site Rule 5 Contain stockpiles on or off site

Stockpiles are located on site

Sediment control fences have been installed

Gravel inlet filters, gravel sausages or sandbag filters are in place

Site Rule 6 Clean and wash up on site

Designated cutting and clean up area on site

Equipment is cleaned of excess material before washing

Sediment filters have been installed downslope

Site Rule 7 On Site toilet

An on site toilet is provided for workers

Site Rule 8 Chemical Storage

Provision has been made for a chemical storage area

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This project has been assisted with funding by the Victorian

Government, through EPA Victoria, as part of the Victorian

Stormwater Action Program.

Reproduced and adapted with permission from EPA Victoria

and the City of Kingston.

For Further Information Contact:

Bass Coast Shire Council (03) 5671 2211 or (03) 5951 3311

South Gippsland Shire Council (03) 5662 9200

Printed on Recycled Paper.

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Reproduced and adapted with permission from EPA Victoria and

the City of Kingston.






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URBAN STORMWATER


INDUSTRIAL PREMISES




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CONTENTS

Page

Introduction .............................................................................................................. 1

Wastewater ............................................................................................................. 3

Treating Wastewater ............................................................................................... 4

Cleaning and Washing in the Workplace ................................................................ 5

Vehicle Washing ..................................................................................................... 6

Parts Washing ........................................................................................................ 6

Liquid and Chemical Storage ................................................................................. 7

Bund ....................................................................................................................... 7

Spill Pallet ................................................................................................................ 7

Safety Cabinet ......................................................................................................... 7

Material Safety Data Sheets ................................................................................... 8Hazardous Trade Waste Storage ........................................................................... 8

Waste Reduction .................................................................................................... 9

Waste Management ............................................................................................... 9

Waste Receptacles - Bins, Skips and Hoppers .................................................... 10

Bulk Storage ......................................................................................................... 11

Unloading and Loading Areas .............................................................................. 12

Refuelling Areas ................................................................................................... 12

Vehicle and Equipment Maintenance ................................................................... 13

Cleaning Cement Trucks ...................................................................................... 13

Spill Management ................................................................................................. 14

Spill Clean Up Procedure ..................................................................................... 14

Regulatory Authorities in a Spill Emergency ........................................................ 15

Staff Training ........................................................................................................ 15

Take the Test ........................................................................................................ 16

Useful Contact for Further Information and Advice .............................................. 18


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Supported By:


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What is stormwater




rivers, creeks and beaches. Stormwater enters these

waterways untreated.

As stormwater travels across hard surfaces, it

picks up all kinds of pollutants in its path, such as litter,

chemicals and sediments. Contamination of stormwater

can seriously pollute our water environments, killing fish and

other aquatic life.

How is Stormwater Different to the SewerSystem?

The sewer system carries used water from inside

homes and businesses to a treatment plant (or septic

tank) where harmful contaminants are removed before it

is released back into the environment. In contrast, the

stormwater system drains rainwater (and pollutants) from our

streets and washes them directly into our local rivers, creeks

and beaches untreated.

Purpose of this Best Management Practice

GuidelineThis Best Practice Management Guideline details many

simple practices individuals and businesses can employ

to prevent contamination of the stormwater system. The

information is designed to help ensure that stormwater run-

off entering local waterways is clean and free of pollutants.

The information will also help to ensure that individuals and

businesses comply with Council and State Regulations.

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Does a little bit of pollution really affect water quality?

Yes. It doesnt matter how little the spill is, allowing a drum to leak oil, washing a car in the street, hosing footpaths,

allowing bins to overflow or allowing chemicals to run-off into stormwater drains, add up across the catchment to become a

significant source of pollution entering our waterways.

The water on the earth is billions of years old and is continually cycled over and over again.

Of all the water in the world, 97% is salty ocean water, 2% is locked in polar ice and only a very small 1% is fresh water

available for our needs. The amount of water in the world remains constant and never changes. When you consider that

there is only 1% of fresh water available for use and we need to use the same 1% of water over and over again, it makes

sense not to pollute such a vital commodity.

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Industrial Guidelines

Why do I need to protect our environment?

The total effect of polluted runoff from a number of

industrial sites can have a considerable impact on the quality

of stormwater entering rivers, creeks and beaches. Polluted

stormwater runoff can result in fish kills, unsafe swimming

conditions, the accumulation of toxins in aquatic animals in the

food chain, and degraded waterways and recreation areas.

Environmental Legislation

Industrial areas have a responsibility under the

Environment Protection Act 1970, the Water Act 1989,

the Water Authorities By-laws and Councils Local Laws to

prevent the discharge of waste from their property.

THE ISSUE: WASTEWATER

What is wastewater?

Water used in industry for purposes such as cleaning

or manufacturing processes is known as wastewater or

trade waste. Wastewater often contains pollutants such as

detergent, solvent, fat, oil, grease, soil, sediment and other

chemicals.

Can wastewater be directed to stormwater drains?

No. It is illegal to discharge wastewater or any waste tostormwater drains.

Can wastewater be directed to the sewage system?

To direct wastewater to the sewage system you must

have a trade waste agreement from the local water authority.

The agreement will specify the pre-treatment requirements

of the wastewater before the authority will accept it into the

system for further treatment and eventual disposal.

What are the alternatives?

If you are not connected to the sewer, or if your liquid

waste cannot be directed to the sewer even after pre-treatment, you will need to collect the liquid waste in drums

or tanks. An authorised waste contractor will be required to

collect the containers of liquid waste, for transport to a waste

disposal facility.

Good Wastewater Practices for Operators of

Industrial Business

1. Contact your local water authority or your Local Council

Environmental Wastewater Planner to find out about the

trade waste requirements for your premises.

2. Educate staff about which drain/s or disposal point they

must use to dispose of wastewater.3. Place signs near drains and outlet points to inform staff

of which drain they are using.

4. Be aware of your environmental responsibilities. If you

are not sure, then contact Council or EPA Victoria for

further information.

Only rainwater is allowed to


Anything other than rain will

pollute local waterways and

beaches.

Water Authorities

South Gippsland Water

Ph: 5682 0444

Westernport Water

Ph: 5956 4100, 1300 720 711

Gippsland Water

Ph: 5177 4600

CouncilsBass Coast Shire Council

Ph: 5671 2211, Ph: 5951 3311

South Gippsland Shire Council

Ph: 5662 9200

EPA

Traralgon Regional Office

Ph: 5176 1744

Dandenong

Ph: 8710 5555

Information Centre

Ph: 9695 2722

Disposal of trade waste to

sewer must first be approved by

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THE ISSUE: TREATING WASTEWATER

What are wastewater treatment devices?

Treatment devices such as sediment traps, grease

traps, triple interceptors or first flush systems are installed

to remove problem substances from wastewater before

the water is directed to the sewage system. Such devices

are designed to intercept and retain silt, sand, grease, oil,

sludge, nutrients and other substances. The device allows

only wastewater to pass through to the sewer.

The installation and proper maintenance of the

treatment device will:

1. Reduce sewer blockages and sewer maintenancecosts.

2. Reduce sewer spills and the resultant impact on

community health, damage to property and the

environment.

3. Provide improved environmental outcomes through

treated sewage effluent being able to be reclaimed and

reused.

Good Management Practices for Wastewater

Treatment Devices

1. Install a suitably designed treatment device, relevant to

treating your industrial waste.2. Have a contract company regularly clean the

wastewater treatment device. Your trade waste

agreement will specify the frequency of cleaning

required.

3. Prevent unsuitable pollutants from entering the

treatment device. Wastewater treatment devices

will only remove the pollutants they are designed to

remove.

4. Contact EPA Traralgon or Dandenong to provide a list

of contractors who have a permit to transport trade

wastes.

Sediment trap

Did you know?

Biodegradable products are

classified as pollutants if they


Although better for the

environment, biodegradable

products are designed to

breakdown by micro-organisms

in the sewerage treatment

process.

Treatment devices should be

pumped out frequently. Your

trade waste agreement will

specify how often.

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THE ISSUE: CLEANING AND WASHING IN THE

WORKPLACE

How can I clean the workplace without polluting

stormwater?

External paved areas discharge to stormwater drains.

It is important to manage litter, waste and cleaning practices

in these areas. Hosing or sweeping litter, leaves, cigarette

butts, sediment and spills into gutters or drains can block the

drain and will pollute local waterways and beaches.

Good Workplace Cleaning and Washing

Practise1. Sweep litter and sediment from work floors, forecourts

and hard surfaces (roads, paths driveways etc)

regularly. Collect, recycle or dispose of the swept

material in your waste bin.

2. Have a spill kit on site to clean up and remove spilt oil

or grease, alternatively have absorbent materials such

as sawdust, newspaper or kitty litter on site for cleaning

spills.

3. Paint the work floor with a non-slip paint to prevent the

floor absorbing oil.

4. Use dry methods for cleaning such as a broom,

vacuum cleaner or compressed air jet.

5. If the area is washed down, wash water should be

directed to the sewer by appropriate grading and

location of sewer inlet points as per the local water

authoritys requirements.

6. Do not allow waste bins or skips to overflow. Bin lids

must be kept closed and emptied regularly dependent

upon volumes of waste produced.

7. Provide customers and staff with suitable receptacles

for cigarette butt litter ie sand boxes.

8. Educate staff about good waste management

practices.

Collect swept sediment with a dustpan and dispose of in a bin

sawdust


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THE ISSUE: VEHICLE WASHING

How can I wash vehicles without polluting thestormwater system?

Vehicle washing carried out on impervious surfaces

such as in the street or on a driveway, allows the soapy

water containing phosphorous (as well as mud, oil and

grease) to flow as run-off, straight into the stormwater

system. Phosphorous provides the nutrients required to

fuel excessive growth of aquatic weeds and algae in our

waterways.

Good Vehicle Washing Practice

1. Carry out vehicle washing in a bunded wash bay or

graded pavement area, with wash water directed into

an approved trade waste system or collected, stored

and removed off-site by an authorised liquid waste

disposal operator.

2. Contact your local water authority to find out about

the wash bay and trade waste requirements for vehicle

washing on your premises.

3. Ensure council building approvals are met before

installing a wash bay or consider hiring or buying a

portable wash pad.

4. Consider using a commercial car wash if your premise

does not have a washbay.5. If washing occasionally (i.e. no more than 2 cars per

day), a fully grassed absorbent area on your premises

can be used. Ensure at least 20 square meters of

grass per vehicle per day is used when washing. Use

a bucket or a trigger nozzle to minimise the volume of

water generated.

ISSUE: PARTS WASHING

Where should I carry out my parts washing?

Degreasing of engines and small parts should be

confined to a bunded area or parts washer, with wastecollected for recycling by a licensed contractor.

Good Parts Washing Practice

1. Degrease engines and wash parts in a bunded

concrete area that drains to an approved oil/water

separation unit.

2. Alternatively, wipe parts with solvent on a rag and

dispose of in a bin.

3. For small parts, use a parts washer or degreaser

trough.

4. Recycle or reuse your waste oil.

5. Waste solvents and sludges from degreasers mustbe disposed of as prescribed waste by a licensed

contractor. Contact your local EPA officer for a list of

contractors who have a permit to transport prescribed

wastes.

Wash Bay

Wastewater from parts and

vehicle washing should bedirected into an approved trade

waste system.

Advise staff that any discharge

of wastewater, chemicals,

detergents, oil or grease to land

and/or the stormwater system

damages our environmentand can attract fines of up to

$240,000.

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THE ISSUE: LIQUID AND CHEMICAL STORAGE

Spillage and accidents from liquid and chemical storage

areas can contaminate the stormwater system. Handling

and storage methods should be developed for l iquids that

will protect the environment from contamination. The most

common methods include bunding, spill pallets and safety

cabinets.

What is a bund?

A bund is a low wall, constructed of brick or concrete

that completely surrounds stored liquids. A bund is a simple

and effective way to minimise the risk of leaks and spills

escaping into the environment from 44-gallon drums, fixedtanks and containers.

Bunds that contain bulk liquid must comply with EPA

Bunding Guidelines, Publication 347.

What is a spill pallet?

Spill pallets are plastic or metal tray-like containers that

will capture the contents of any leaking drum or container.

Spill pallets are used for the storage or decanting of liquids.

What is a Safety cabinet?

A safety cabinet is a fire resistant, lockable unit with

self-closing doors and a built-in sump to capture leaks.

Safety cabinets come in a wide variety of sizes from 20 litresup to 8,600-litre capacity. Safety cabinets are used to store

small amounts of chemicals and flammable liquids.

The safety cabinet must comply with the requirements

of Australian Standard 1940 The Storage and Handling of

Flammable and Combustible Liquids.

Good Liquid and Chemical Storage Practices

All chemicals and liquids should be stored such that:

Recovery of spilt material is possible.

They are stored away from stormwater drains and pits.

They are on an impervious base such as concrete.

Good operational procedures are used for decanting.

Lids are kept on drums/containers when not in use.

A spill clean up kit (absorbent material) is on hand for

cleaning any spills.

Containers and drums are inspected regularly and

replaced if rusted, damaged or likely to leak.

They are undercover and in a bunded storage area, on

a spill pallet or stored within a safety cabinet.

Bund.

Spill pallet.

Safety cabinet

Decanting device

Ensure chemicals cannot react

with others stored nearby. Forexample, do not store acids

with alkalis as they can react

together violently.

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ISSUE: MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS

What is a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)?

A MSDS is an information sheet that covers:

Safe storage, handling and disposal of a substance

Emergency clean up procedures for chemicals

First Aid advice

Good Chemical Safety Practice

1. Ask your supplier for a MSDS for every hazardous

substance you buy and/or use in your operations.

2. Keep MSDSs in a folder, within the storage area.

3. Always check labels and MSDSs for specific storage,transport and disposal instructions.

ISSUE: HAZARDOUS TRADE WASTE

STORAGE

Certain substances are classified as dangerous goods

and their use and storage is controlled by the Dangerous

Goods Act 1975. Storage of any hazardous materials

should be in accordance with current legislation.

Good Hazardous Waste Storage Practices

To prevent any hazardous residues leaking into the

stormwater system:

1. Keep wastes such as contaminated parts (oil filters,

engines, radiators), coolant, solvent, paint, chemicals,

drums and sludge from wastewater treatment devices,

in a classified, labelled, sealed container, tank or drum

and within a bunded and roofed area until disposal or

collection by a licensed contractor.

2. Refer to the products MSDS for the correct waste

disposal information.

3. Use a licensed carrier to remove hazardous substances

or dangerous goods.

4. For further information on hazardous waste storagecontact WorkSafe Victoria on 9641 1333 or www.

worksafe.vic.gov.au. Search under Safe Handling of

Industrial Waste A Practical Guide for Workplaces.

5. Contact the Victorian WorkCover Authority for

information on the storage, handling and transport of

dangerous goods.

Insist on a MSDS from suppliers

for every chemical used on your

premises.

Hazardous waste storage.

Make sure you know where

every type of waste materialshould go, talk to your waste

contractor or contact the EPA if

you are unsure.

Dispose of trade waste

materials using a reputable and

correctly licensed contractor.

Contact EPA Victoria for a list.

Victorian WorkCover Authority

Ph: 9641 1444 or 1800 136 089

www.workcover.vic.gov.au

Worksafe Victoria

Ph: 9641 1333

www.worksafe.vic.gov.au

EPA Victoria

Traralgon Ph: 5176 1744

Dandenong Ph: 8710 5555

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ISSUE: WASTE REDUCTION: AVOID / REDUCE

/ REUSE / RECYCLE

Where waste storage area is insufficient, or recyclable

materials are waste, the minimisation of wastes produced

needs to be considered. EcoRecycle can assist businesses

to reduce waste, use resources more efficiently and send

waste to landfill as a last resort. The program aims to

deliver a financial return to businesses through cost-effective

waste reduction and recycling systems, and its free.

Good Waste Minimisation Practices

1. Recycle where you can (batteries, cardboard, paper, oil,scrap metal, drums, concrete).

2. Buy in bulk and avoid packaging.

3. Reuse drums and containers where possible. Ask

suppliers to exchange empties.

4. Use drum pumps and/or tilters to completely drain

drums before their return to the supplier, alternatively

triple rinse drums and containers (store rinse water for

disposal by licensed contractor) and recycle them.

5. Identify ways of reusing materials, for example it may be

cheaper to treat water for reuse rather than disposal.

6. Choose products made from recycled materials.

Check the Eco-Buy website for details.

THE ISSUE: WASTE MANAGEMENT

Waste disposal is a necessity for all commercial

businesses. Poor waste management practices negatively

impact on businesses, local amenity and the environment.

Receptacles used for the collection and storage of

waste must:

1. Be stored on the site of the business (in an appropriate

location).

2. Contain the waste securely.

3. Be fitted with a lid that closes.4. Be an adequate size for the waste your business

produces.

5. Be emptied and cleaned regularly.

For more detail, refer to the Good Waste Management

Practices for bins, skips and hoppers.

Remember the three Rs -

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

There is no cost to dispose of

sorted recycled materials at tips

and transfer stations. Recycling

can save you money.

Advise staff that any discharge

of waste is an offence underthe Litter Provisions of the

Environment Protection Act

1970 and is subject to fines of

up to $4000.

All waste receptacles must

contain waste securely and

prevent its discharge to theenvironment.

EcoRecycle Victoria

Ph: 1800 353 233

www.ecorecycle.vic.gov.au

Eco-Buy

www.mav.asn.au/buyrecycled

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THE ISSUE: WASTE RECEPTACLES BINS,

SKIPS AND HOPPERS

Unsecured wastes can easily be blown into the

environment, which can pollute local waterways, block

stormwater drains and cause local flooding.

Good Waste Management Practices for Waste

Bins, Skips and Hoppers.

How should I manage my waste to prevent stormwater

pollution?

Waste bins, hoppers and skips used for the collection

and storage of waste must:

1. Be stored on the site of the business. Waste

receptacles not secured within the property boundary

allow unauthorised waste to be placed in the

receptacle, increasing the cost of waste disposal

incurred by your business.

2. Be located on site for waste storage and have suitable

area fencing. Site fencing will help to contain waste

and prevent its discharge to the environment.

3. Be stored on a surface that is impervious, undercover,

graded and drained to the sewer or an approved outlet

with silt traps or other treatment devices required by the

Environment Health Officer or Water Authority.

4. Be fitted with a fly or vermin proof lid, which must be

kept closed when not in use. A closed lid will contain

waste securely and will also prevent rain entering the

receptacle, which can wash oils and chemicals out of

rags or leach food scraps into stormwater.

5. Waste receptacles must be emptied at least weekly or

more regularly if the contents become offensive. Waste

receptacle sizes should be adequate for the waste

produced.

6. Businesses that generate quantities of waste and

recycling exceeding Councils service entitlements (240-

litre garbage and 240-litre recycling) should arrange

for a private collection. See Waste Reduction and

Disposal Services in the yellow pages.

6. Display a sign in the area to clearly show the prescribed

waste management practices.

7. The receptacles should be cleaned, disinfected and

sanitised thoroughly each time they are emptied.

Good Bin Cleaning Practice:

a. Use hot soapy water in an approved bin wash

area, take to a commercial car wash, or look under

Commercial Cleaners in the Yellow Pages for an

accredited bin-cleaning company.

b. Replace receptacles regularly with clean receptacles.

Most waste contractors offer a replacement service.

Waste receptacle lids should be

kept closed when not in use.

Segregate wastes wherever

possible for recycling.

Aquatic habitats and recreation areas destroyed

Store bins on an impervious surface with

drainage through a silt trap

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ISSUE: BULK STORAGE

Spilt materials such as powders, pallets, stock-feeds,

sawdust, wood shavings or raw materials etc can enter the

stormwater system and either block the drain or decompose

and pollute local waterways.

Where should I store bulk materials to prevent

stormwater pollution?

1. Store bulk materials undercover, in secure areas or

indoors.

2. Store bagged or boxed materials off the ground, on

shelving or pallets.

3. Divert potential upstream water run off around outdoor

storage areas to reduce transport of loose material tostormwater drains.

4. Provide a vegetated or grassed area to trap sediment

between the storage bay access area and the

stormwater system.

5. Drain areas that generate dust, gravel, and loose

material to a sediment removal device and sweep these

areas regularly.

6. Use toewalls or bunding to contain leaks and spills from

storage areas.

7. Spray or cover exposed stockpiles on dry windy days

to reduce dust generation.

8. In the event of a spill, sweep up the material and

dispose of in a bin. Never hose the spill intostormwater drains.

SpillKit

RECYCLING

11


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THE ISSUE: UNLOADING AND LOADING

AREAS

Unloading and loading areas are generally heavily

trafficked with a variety of goods and materials being

moved about continually. Spills from loading and unloading

operations are a common source of stormwater pollution.

Careful location of loading and unloading areas, combined

with thorough spill management can significantly reduce

contamination of the stormwater system.

Good Loading and Unloading Practices

1. Locate loading areas indoors or within a roofed andbunded area where possible.

2. Ensure stormwater overland flow is directed away from

the loading and unloading site.

3. Cover and secure loads leaving the site to prevent

loose material or goods falling off the vehicle.

Unsecured loads are a hazard for traffic, and fallen

materials will eventually find their way into local

waterways through the stormwater system.

ISSUE: REFUELLING AREAS

Spills from refuelling areas can contribute to stormwaterpollution. Even seemingly clean refuelling areas can carry

run-off with an oily sheen.

Good Refuelling Practices

1. Refuelling areas should be concrete, bunded and

preferably covered.

2. The area must drain either to an approved trade

wastewater system or into a holding tank that is

pumped out by a licensed contractor.

3. Upstream surface runoff should be diverted utilising

surface grades, bunds and /or diversion drains.

4. If it is not possible to cover the refuelling area, the

catchment area should be minimised.

5. Have absorbent materials available to clean up spills.

6. Balance fuel used against fuel received to detect tank

leakage.

7. Ensure that an emergency management plan exists for

dealing with spills.

8. Retrofit existing stations and develop new stations in

accordance with the EPA Publication 347 Information

Bulletin Bunding Guidelines and Publication

462 Information Bulletin Waste control at motor

vehicle repair and service premises best practice

environmental management. Visit www.epa.vic.gov.au

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ISSUE: VEHICLE AND EQUIPMENT

MAINTENANCE

Radiator, fuel, brake fluid and oil leaks from vehicles will

wash off roads and impervious surfaces into the stormwater

system. These fluids can also run-off into stormwater when

servicing or repairing vehicles and equipment.

Good Vehicle and Equipment Maintenance

Procedures

1. Service and maintain vehicles and equipment regularly.

2. Carry out maintenance in areas where any spills can be

contained and cleaned up.3. Inspect equipment, vehicles and plant for leaks regularly.

4. Place drip trays under any leaking vehicle or equipment

until leaks are rectified.

5. Have spill equipment or sawdust on site to mop up spills.

Dispose of spill materials through a licensed disposal facility.

6. Bund the entrance to the workshop with speed humps to

contain spills and prevent pollution.

7. Paint the workshop floor with a non-slip paint to prevent

the floor absorbing oil.

THE ISSUE: CLEANING CEMENT TRUCKS

Concrete washings entering the stormwater system can

harden and block drains, change the pH of water and can kill

water plants and animals. It is important not to wash concrete

mix trucks, pumps or equipment on roadways and footpaths or

near reserves or waterways.

Good concrete mix-truck cleaning practice

1. Put sediment controls in place around stormwater drains

if unloading concrete from the street or footpath.

2. Sweep or vacuum any spillage that has occurred during

the delivery procedure. Do not hose concrete spills into

stormwater drains.

3. If equipment wash-down takes place on-site, the wash-

down area must be located away from stormwater drains

and slope towards appropriate sediment controls.

4. The wash down area should only be used for small

volumes of wash water and should not be used as a

disposal point.

5. Small amounts of concrete slurry can be safely put in a

ditch lined with plastic or geotextile liners on site. Once the

water evaporates or soaks into the surface, the solids can

then be deposited into a skip or used as road base.

6. If the client does not have provisions for managing excess

or residue concrete, it should be sent back with the

delivery truck to the depot.

7. Thorough truck wash down should take place at the

depot in a wash bay suitably designed to contain

wastewater as per the water authorities trade waste

agreement.

8. Reuse water wherever possible, ie. back into a batch or

mix process.

Sandbag filter

Gravel sausage filter

Remove sediment from road and place back on site

Have a set wash up area on site

Use drip trays under machinery when carrying out maintenance

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ISSUE: SPILL MANAGEMENT

Spills can occur at anytime, therefore, be prepared for

spills and respond to them immediately. Do not hose spills

away. Develop a spill clean up plan for your business and

train staff regarding clean up procedures. The plan should

indicate the role of staff members in the event of a spill.

Good Spill Management Practices

1. Develop a spill management plan. Have MSDS

available on site for each chemical and use these when

collating information for the spill management plan.

2. Keep a spill kit on site for cleaning up any oil and

chemical spills.

3. Ensure that your staff can quickly access an effective

method for blocking stormwater drains in a spill

emergency.

4. Have emergency incident contact numbers, MSDSs

and protective clothing on hand.

5. Ensure that all staff are aware of emergency telephone

numbers to call in a spill emergency.

What should spill clean-up equipment include?

Depending on the type of material or liquid, spill kits

can be as simple as a drum full of sand or sawdust and a

shovel. For hazardous or dangerous liquids, manufacturedkits are available in a range of sizes for different applications

(oil, chemicals etc) and can be purchased from a number

of safety suppliers. Check with suppliers for the equipment

that best suits your individual needs. Look under Safety

Equipment and Accessories in the Yellow Pages.

ISSUE: SPILL CLEAN-UP PROCEDURE

It is important to train and prepare your staff for a spill

emergency. In any spill emergency or pollution situation, the

primary objective must be to ensure safety and to contain

the pollutant or prevent further spillage.

Good Spill Emergency Management

For small scale spills, follow the advice in the relevant

material safety data sheet (MSDS).

1. Put on appropriate protective safety clothing such as

gloves, breathing mask, goggles, and overalls.

2. Stop the spill at the source immediately if safe to do so.

3. Contain the spill by controlling or redirecting flow.

4. Isolate or block off drain inlets.

5. Clean up the spill using dry absorbent material.

6. Sweep or shovel up absorbent material and arrange

for the appropriate disposal of the contaminated waste

(Check MSDS).

7. Report the Spill to the appropriate regulatory authority.

This must occur when the situation presents significant,

actual or potential harm to the health and safety of

humans or to the environment.

sawdust


Keep a spill kit on site and ensure staff know

how to respond to a spill emergency

Be prepared for spills. Keep a

spill kit on site for cleaning oil

and chemical spills.

Spill Equipment

Look under Safety Equipment and Accessories in

the Yellow Pages for spill clean up equipment.

For small scale spills, follow the

advice in the relevant material

safety data sheet (MDSDS).

Never put yourself or the lives of

others at risk. Avoid breathing

any gas, fumes, mist or dust

and avoid making direct contact

with the material.

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ISSUE: REGULATORY AUTHORITIES IN A

SPILL EMERGENCY

Who are the appropriate regulatory authorities in a spill

emergency?

For small-scale spills (spills less than 60 litres) follow

the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) instructions.

For large-scale dangerous goods or hazardous

substance spills immediately call the Fire Brigade.

CFAPh: 000

If the spill threatens or harms the environment, you

must report it to EPA Victoria (Environment Protection

Authority).

EPA Pollution Watchline (24 hrs) Ph: 1800 444 004EPA Traralgon Regional Office Ph: 5176 1744

EPA Dandenong Office Ph: 8710 5555

Where drainage systems are affected, the owner or

manager should be notified. For local drains this will be the

municipality.

South Gippsland Shire Council Ph: 5662 9200

Bass Coast Shire Council Ph: 5671 2211 or

Ph: 5951 3311

Larger drains and waterways are the responsibility of

the Catchment Management Authority (CMA).

West Gippsland CMA Ph: 5175 7800 or

Ph: 5662 4555

Port Phillip & Westernport CMA Ph: 9785 0183

THE ISSUE: STAFF TRAINING

Staff training is one of the most effective mechanisms

to reduce potential pollution to waterways and also lower

liability for businesses.

Good Stormwater Management

1. Train your staff in the following:

The difference between the stormwater system and

sewerage system. Where stormwater drains and waste disposal points

are located in and around your premises.

Which disposal point they must use to dispose of

wastewater.

The most appropriate method of cleaning including

dry cleaning methods.

Good waste storage practices to encourage no

offsite impacts.

Ways to reduce, reuse and recycle waste.

Spill Emergency procedures

2. Install signage in highly visible locations to ensure staff

are aware of their responsibilities in relation to waste

management, cleaning procedures, spill managementetc.

Employees, employers,

occupiers and contractors all

have a duty to contact EPA

Victoria if the spill threatens or

harms the environment.

What to report

Time and location of spill

incident.

Nature of spill (material and

quantity).

Threats to human health,

property or environment,

proximity to waterways or

stormwater drains.

Rain and wind direction at

the location.

Do not hose spills away - if

the spill enters the stormwater

system you may be prosecuted

for pollution.

Do not allow clean-up and wash

down effluents to escape intothe stormwater system.

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TAKE THE TEST!

Score:

Only questions with Yes/No answers contribute to the score. Where a question is N/A for this business,

the maximum possible score is reduced (e.g. from 18 to 17)

A. Score (Total number of YES)

B. Maximum possible score 18

C. Percentage (A/B x 100)

Results (circle)

Towards Best Practice Moderate

90%+ 89 - 70%

Poor Extremely Poor

69 - 51%


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Washing Score

8. Are degreasing and parts washing conducted in a parts washer or in a bunded

concrete area that drains to an oil/water separation unit?

Yes No N/A

9. Is vehicle washing conducted in a dedicated wash bay that drains to an oil/water

separation unit?

Yes No N/A

Storage

10. Are liquids, drums and tanks stored in a bunded concrete area or on spill

pallets undercover?Yes No N/A

11. Are Material Safety Data Sheets held on site for every hazardous substance you

buy and/or use in your operations?

Yes No N/A

12. Are contaminated parts/waste stored in sealed containers and undercover in

a bunded area?

Yes No N/A

13. Are storage areas checked regularly for any leaks or spills?

Yes No N/A

Spill Management

14. Do you have a spill clean up plan for your business and have you trained staff

in clean up procedures?

Yes No N/A

15. Is a chemical/oil spill kit kept on site and staff trained in its use?

Yes No N/A

Waste

16. Are waste receptacle lids kept closed at all times?

Yes No N/A

17. Is a licensed carrier contracted to remove hazardous waste from the premises?

Yes No N/A

18. Is waste kept in a secure waste receptacle or fenced area on your premises?

Yes No N/A

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Reproduced and adapted with permission from EPA Victoria

and the City of Kingston.





Useful Contacts for Further Information & Advice

Shire Councils

Bass Coast Shire Council Ph: 5671 2211

Ph: 5951 3311

South Gippsland Shire Council Ph: 5662 9200

Environment Protection Authority

EPA Traralgon Regional Office Ph: 5176 1744

EPA Dandenong Office Ph: 8710 5555

EPA Pollution Watch Line Ph: 1800 444 004EPA Information Centre Ph: 9695 2722

Water Authorities

Westernport Water Ph: 5956 4100 OR

1300 720 711 Enquires

South Gippsland Water Ph: 5682 0444

Gippsland Water Ph: 51 77 4600

CFA Ph: 000

Victorian WorkCover Authority

www.workcover.vic.gov.au Ph: 9641 1444 OR

1800 136 089

Yellow Pages

Look under;

Water Treatment & Equipment, Sewage & Wastewater Treatment, Effluent Treatment

Equipment & Services, Environment & Pollution Consultants, Safety Equipment &

Accessories, Oil and Chemical Spill Recovery or Dispersal Services, Gippsland Metal

Recyclers, Waste Reduction and Disposal, Allure Safety.

18


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Reproduced and adapted with permission from EPA Victoria and

the City of Kingston.






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URBAN STORMWATER


COMMERCIAL PREMISES




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CONTENTS

Page

Introduction ...............................................................................................................1

Wastewater .............................................................................................................. 3

Cleaning and Wastewater ....................................................................................... 4

Grease Traps / Treating Wastewater ....................................................................... 4

Maintaining Shop Fronts ......................................................................................... 5

Mechanical Exhaust Canopies ................................................................................ 5

Waste Reduction and Storage ................................................................................. 6

Waste Management ................................................................................................ 6

Waste Receptacles - Bins, Skips and Hoppers ....................................................... 7

Organic / Putrescible Waste .................................................................................... 8

Bin Wash Areas ....................................................................................................... 8Oil Storage and Liquid Waste .................................................................................. 9

Spill Management .................................................................................................. 10

Staff Training ......................................................................................................... 10

Take the Test ......................................................................................................... 11


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Supported By:


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What is stormwater




rivers, cre

617_1.storm water guidelines

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