Construction sites require careful planning and coordination to manage the noise, dust, and congestion, but the importance of cleanliness is often overlooked. Maintaining a clean construction site is essential for worker and visitor safety, and also to comply with federal regulations. In this article, we will discuss the role of pavement sweeping in keeping construction sites clean and safe, and how Commercial Property Maintenance can help.
Compliance with Federal Regulations
The Clean Water Act of 1972 mandates that construction sites must have a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) to prevent erosion and reduce the discharge of pollutants into nearby waterways. Pavement and street sweeping are a best management practice (BMP) that helps construction sites comply with SWPPP regulations. Sweeping removes sediment and pollutants from the site before they can be transported into nearby waterways, reducing the amount of dirt and debris that leaves the site. Regular sweeping can help construction companies avoid costly fines and legal action from regulatory agencies.
Track Out Control
Track out occurs when dirt, gravel, or other construction materials are transported from a construction site to nearby streets, sidewalks, and storm drains by construction vehicles, equipment, and workers’ feet. This can cause air quality concerns, and if these materials enter storm drains, it can lead to water pollution. Track out control is crucial to prevent erosion, reduce airborne dust, and prevent pollutants from entering nearby waterways. Sweeping is a proven BMP that helps control track out by removing dirt, dust, and debris from the surface of paved areas before it is transported off the construction site.
Erosion Control
During construction, the ground surface is often disturbed, which can lead to soil erosion. The displacement of soil is caused by wind, water, or gravity, which can cause environmental and property damage. Soil erosion can also lead to sedimentation of nearby waterways, which can be detrimental to aquatic life. Pavement sweeping is an effective way to control erosion by removing soil and debris from paved areas, which can help reduce the amount of sedimentation in nearby waterways. Sweeping also helps prevent dust from blowing off the site, which can be a health hazard for workers and the surrounding community.
Additional Benefits of Regular Sweeping
In addition to SWPPP compliance and track out control, regular pavement and street sweeping can provide additional benefits to construction sites. These benefits include:
Improved Air Quality: Sweeping removes dirt and debris from paved surfaces, reducing airborne dust and improving air quality on and around the construction site.
Better Site Appearance: A clean construction site looks more professional and can help create a positive image for the construction company. A well-maintained site can also help with community relations by reducing the impact of the construction project on nearby residents.
Commercial Property Maintenance Can Help
At Commercial Property Maintenance, we understand the importance of maintaining a clean construction site. Our team of experts provides comprehensive pavement and street sweeping services that meet your site’s specific needs. We use state-of-the-art equipment and proven techniques to ensure that your construction site remains clean, safe, and compliant with all federal regulations. Contact us today to learn more about how our sweeping services can benefit your construction site and help you meet your regulatory obligations.