stormwater in Business and industry

Everyday "normal" business operations can contribute significantly to stormwater runoff pollution.  Below are some common Best Management Practices (BMPs) that you can incorporate into your everyday activities.

General Activities

Inspect material transfer lines/connections for leaks or signs of
wear and repair or replace as necessary.

Regularly sweep and clean up the facility to remove dust, spilled
materials, animal and food products, etc.

Initiate inventory control for all raw and spent materials.

Raw Material Unloading/Product

Ensure that a facility representative is present during
unloading/loading activities.

Perform all unloading/loading activities in a covered and/or
enclosed area. Situate loading/unloading areas indoors or in a
covered area. Ensure that berms and dikes are built around the
unloading/loading areas, if applicable. If outside or in covered
areas, minimize run on of stormwater into the unloading/loading
areas by grading the areas to ensure that stormwater runs off.

Use rubber seals in truck loading dock areas to contain spills
indoors. Use drip pans when loading/unloading liquid product.
Close storm drains in surrounding areas during
loading/unloading activities. Use dry cleanup methods for
unloading/loading areas rather than washing the areas down.

Inspect the unloading/loading areas to detect problems before
they occur. Inspect all containers prior to unloading/loading of
any raw or spent materials. Inspect all connection equipment
(e.g., hoses and couplings), and replace when necessary, before
performing unloading/loading activities.

Install backflow prevention devices on liquid transfer equipment.
Drain hoses back into truck, railcar, etc. after loading/unloading
materials. Install high level alarm on tanks to prevent overfilling.

Pest Control

Reduce costs and pesticide use through Integrated Pest
Management (IPM):

Identify and remove source of pest problem
Spot apply pesticides to the problem area
Use baits and traps instead of sprays when possible

Follow manufacturers (label) directions for application of pest
control materials to site. Only apply pest control materials during
dry weather. Do not apply if rain is in the forecast. Apply
insecticides during breeding months. Protect rat bait houses
from stormwater. Store containers indoors or undercover.

Solid and Liquid Storage

Cover and enclose storage areas using berms or dikes. If storing
outside, minimize stormwater runon into storage areas by
grading area to ensure that stormwater runs “off” and not “on”.

Locate the tank outlets for bulkhead liquid storage tanks
indoors. In solid storage areas, consider vacuum emission
control systems for airborne dust and particulate matter.
Inspect the external condition (corrosion, leaks) of the
containers. Inspect the general area around the containers.

Ensure that all containers are closed (e.g., valves shut, lids and
manways sealed, caps closed).

Wash containers indoors before storing empty containers
outdoors.

Employ measures to protect against spills from overflows (e.g.,
high level sensors, alarms).

Waste Management and Storage

Treat wastewater in-house, if possible. Route trash compactor
leakage and overflows/condensates from process vents to
treatment system or sanitary sewer.

Inspect the outside pipe connections (couplings, valve seals and
gaskets, flanges, etc.) of the wastewater treatment system for
leaks, corrosion, and poor upkeep. Inspect air emission control
systems (e.g., baghouses) regularly and repair and replace as
necessary. Inspect the general area around solid waste storage
areas for signs of leaching.

Store waste in proper containers (dumpster's, drums, bags) in an
enclosed and covered area. Minimize stormwater runon to
storage areas by grading the area to ensure that stormwater
runs “off” and not “on.”

Ensure hazardous waste disposal practices are performed in
accordance with Federal, State, and local requirements.
Clean around vents and stacks to atmosphere from process and
storage areas. Place tubs around vents and stacks for easy
collection of settling particles.

Additional information and brochures available for download:

General Business

“Florida Green Lodging Certification Program”

“Steps to Becoming a Florida Clean Marina”

“Waste Reduction – Profit More By Producing Less”

“Hotel / Motel Money Saving and Waste Reduction Guide”

“Electronics – A New Opportunity for Waste Prevention, Reuse and Recycling”

^Top