Stormwater BMPs for Industrial Properties

Rainfall or melting snow creates stormwater runoff that can significantly impact industrial properties. Without a comprehensive management plan, stormwater can cause facility flooding, introduce pollutants into nearby waterways, and create unsafe working conditions for employees. For industrial property owners and managers, implementing best management practices (BMPs) is essential to protect your property and the environment. Overwhelmed? Don’t worry—these steps will help you take control.

Breaking Down the Challenges of Stormwater Management

Industrial properties face unique challenges when it comes to managing stormwater runoff:

1. Impervious Surfaces
   Impervious surfaces, including large rooftops, parking lots, and paved areas, often dominate industrial facilities. These surfaces prevent water from naturally filtering into the ground, leading to increased runoff volumes during storms.
2. Potential Pollutants
   Chemicals, oils, and other hazardous materials commonly used in industrial operations can mix with stormwater runoff, polluting nearby water sources. Even soil or absorbent materials that address spills can be carried into waterways if improperly managed.
3. Maintenance Gaps
   With multiple priorities, it’s easy to overlook routine maintenance of stormwater systems. Missed repairs or clogged infrastructure can leave your property vulnerable to flooding and regulatory violations.

Why BMPs Matter for Industrial Properties

Proper stormwater management protects more than just your property—it helps preserve local ecosystems and ensures compliance with environmental regulations. Industrial properties contribute significantly to stormwater runoff, and poor management can result in harmful pollutants entering groundwater, rivers, and lakes.

Regulatory agencies enforce strict stormwater guidelines for industrial facilities. Failure to comply can lead to costly fines and damage your reputation. Implementing BMPs proactively can help you avoid these risks while safeguarding your property and the environment.

Evaluating Your Stormwater Management Practices

To develop an effective BMP plan, start by evaluating your current stormwater management practices:

1. Inspect Existing Infrastructure
   Regular inspections of your stormwater system are vital. For storm drains, catch basins, and oil-water separators to function properly, debris must remain free of them. Work with a professional stormwater maintenance company to assess the condition of your infrastructure. Storm drain cleaning services can ensure that sediment, debris, and pollutants are properly removed to maintain optimal system performance.
2. Reduce Runoff
   Where feasible, consider landscaping changes to reduce impervious surfaces. For instance, incorporating permeable pavement in parking areas can help manage runoff more effectively.
3. Improve Spill Containment Protocols
   Review and enhance procedures for handling and storing chemicals to prevent leaks and spills from entering the stormwater system. Train employees to ensure they understand how to comply with these protocols.
4. Assess Disposal Practices
   Ensure that storm drains are not misused to dispose of liquid or solid waste. Evaluate how equipment washing and other operations may contribute to runoff and make adjustments to prevent pollutants from entering your stormwater infrastructure.

Key Questions to Ask During a Stormwater Review

When evaluating your stormwater management practices, ask these critical questions:

• Are storm drains regularly inspected and cleaned?
• Is there a plan for dealing with root infiltration or sediment buildup?
• Does your team follow proper waste disposal procedures?
• Are spill containment materials readily available and accessible to employees?

These questions can help you identify areas for improvement and prioritize the next steps for your BMP implementation.

What Happens During a Stormwater Facility Inspection?

Stormwater systems often operate out of sight, with much of the infrastructure underground. A professional inspection is essential for identifying potential problems before they escalate. Common steps in an inspection include measuring sediment levels, visually assessing the performance of structures, identifying SWPPP sample locations, preparing a detailed map of the structures within the stormwater system, and performing camera scoping if necessary.

Our team of qualified inspectors assesses each site individually to ensure that a comprehensive inspection takes place.

Proactive Maintenance: The Key to Long-Term Success

Routine maintenance of your stormwater system is critical to ensuring its long-term effectiveness. By addressing potential issues before they become major problems, you can:

• Prevent flooding and water damage to your property.
• Reduce the risk of regulatory violations.
• Protect nearby ecosystems from harmful pollutants.

Partnering with a trusted stormwater maintenance provider can help you establish a maintenance schedule that meets your property’s unique needs.

Putting BMPs Into Action

Implementing BMPs starts with a commitment to continuous improvement. Here are actionable steps to get started:

1. Train Employees
   Proper training ensures that employees understand their role in protecting stormwater systems. For example, they should know not to dispose of waste in storm drains or rinse equipment in areas that drain into the system.
2. Enhance Spill Prevention
   Invest in spill containment materials and ensure they are strategically placed around your facility. Conduct regular drills to test your team’s preparedness for spill incidents.
3. Establish a Partnership with Experts
   Working with a professional stormwater maintenance provider ensures your systems are inspected, cleaned, and maintained regularly. This partnership helps protect your property while keeping you in compliance with stormwater regulations.

CatchAll Environmental: Your Partner in Stormwater Management

Industrial property owners and managers in the Seattle area trust CatchAll Environmental for comprehensive stormwater maintenance. Our services include pipe jetting, detention vault cleaning, storm filter system maintenance, and oil-water separator servicing.

Whether you need a one-time cleaning or ongoing maintenance, our team is here to help you implement BMPs that protect your property and the environment. Contact us today to learn more about our storm drain cleaning in Seattle and how we can support your stormwater management goals. Call us today!