Spill prevention and prompt appropriate spill response reduces the potential for discharging pollutants to drainage system. Typical spills of concern include chemicals and hazardous waste such as soil stabilizers/binders, dust palliatives, herbicides, growth inhibitors, fertilizers, petroleum, products, fuels, pesticides, lubricants, paints, and solvents.

GUIDELINES

In preparation of a potential spill, locate and clearly label spill-kits and disposal containers. Appropriateness of the response is determined by the quantity and/or composition of the spilled substance as follows:

This section is particularly applicable when conducting construction in highly urbanized or industrial areas where soil contamination may have occurred due to spills, illicit discharges, and leaks from underground storage tanks.

GUIDELINES

The procedures and practices presented in this BMP are general. The contractor should identify appropriate practices and procedures for the specific contaminants known to exist or discovered on-site. It is important to confirm a site assessment before moving soil. 

Identify contaminated soils by investigating the following items:

• Past site uses and activities.
• Detected or undetected spills and leaks.
• Acid or alkaline solutions from exposed soil or rock formations high in acid or alkaline forming elements.
• Contaminated soil as evidenced by discoloration, odors, differences in soil properties, abandoned underground tanks or pipes, or buried debris.
• Contaminated soil is prohibited from entering storm drains, natural waterways, or drainage channels.
• Depending on the type of contamination, different handling requirements will need to be met. In some cases, contaminated soils may need to be placed in steel barrels, sealed, and removed from the site. This waste will need to be taken to a licensed hazardous waste disposal site. Along with this, soil testing for contaminants in stormwater may be required at the discretion of the Construction or Stormwater Inspector.
• Avoid stockpiling contaminated soils. If stockpiling is necessary and allowed, cover the stockpile and install a berm around the pile to prevent runoff for secondary containment.

All suspected soils should be tested at a certified laboratory.

This section describes how to properly store and dispose of paint, stucco, and associated tools.

GUIDELINES

Contact your local jurisdiction to locate facilities that accept paint cans, paint, solvents, and thinners.

• All paint and stucco materials stored on-site must be contained and covered.
• It is illegal for contractors to wash out paintbrushes in the street or dump any residues in the sewer/storm drain.
• Paintbrushes, spray guns, and other tools must be washed/cleaned out into a hazardous materials barrel or original container. Avoid doing this where wash water can flow to the storm drain, even if the paint is latex.
• Paint out brushes as much as possible. Always wash brushes with latex paint in a sink that goes to the sanitary sewer.
• Clean up latex paint spills with rags and wash in the sink. Avoid using oil-based paints, which require solvents. Filter and reuse thinners and solvents.