Prevent Groundwater Contamination: 5 Things Your Business Can Do

Prevent Groundwater Contamination: 5 Things Your Business Can Do

 

Groundwater contamination is serious business.  It affects drinking water, navigable waterways, and soil. Not to mention contamination poses health risks for you, your family and friends.

You may not think that your business could contribute to groundwater contamination. However, many industries and types of businesses are at a greater risk of contamination.  Plus, there are regulations in place and violating one of them could cost your business.  The Clean Water Act regulates ground water that is shown to have a connection with surface water. It sets standards for allowable pollutant discharges to surface water. The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) regulates treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous and nonhazardous wastes.

Typical Sources of Contamination Include:

  • Auto Repair Shops
  • Construction Areas
  • Car Washes
  • Dry Cleaners
  • Gas Stations
  • Laundromats
  • Manufacturing Facilities
  • Petroleum Production and Storage
  • Storage Tanks (Above ground and Underground Storage Tanks)
  • Toxic or Hazardous Spills and Releases

Five Things Your Business Can Do to Prevent Groundwater Contamination

  1. Re-evaluate Processes.  Consider changing the frequency washing equipment or vehicles.  Or consider implementing a rotation schedule for washing and maintenance so that runoff is kept at a minimum at all times.  Recycle old oil or chemicals instead of dumping them.
  2. Consider Material Substitutions.  Look for affordable, less hazardous materials.
  3. Inspect Storage Area. Make sure all storage tanks and containers are in good condition and properly closed.  Also make sure all containers are labeled correctly.
  4. Inspect Inventory. Check inventory logs to see if you are ordering too much of a certain material or chemical.   The more inventory you have on-site means there is more of a chance for a spill or release.
  5. Periodically test soil and groundwater.  Contamination can often remain undetected for long periods of time. This makes cleanup of a contaminated water supply difficult, if not impossible. If a cleanup is undertaken, it can cost thousands to millions of dollars.  Contact a professional to schedule soil and groundwater testing on a regular basis.

Have Questions About Soil and Groundwater Testing?  Call SRP to Speak With One of Our Environmental Consultants in Your Area.  Call Us Today at (866) 222-2364 or Email Us Below.

Source: Environmental Compliance Alert.