Construction sites are known for being noisy, dusty, and congested places that require a lot of coordination and careful planning. However, the importance of keeping construction sites clean and free of debris is often overlooked. Not only is cleanliness essential for the safety of workers and visitors, but it is also necessary to comply with federal regulations. In this article, we will discuss the role of pavement sweeping in maintaining a clean construction site.
Complying with Federal Regulations
Under the Clean Water Act of 1972, construction sites are required to have a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) in place to prevent erosion and minimize the discharge of pollutants into nearby waterways. Pavement and street sweeping are considered a best management practice (BMP) that can help construction sites comply with SWPPP regulations. Sweeping helps remove sediment and pollutants from the site before they can be transported off the property and into nearby waterways. By reducing the amount of dirt and debris that leaves the construction site, sweeping can also 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 track out can cause a range of issues from air quality concerns to potential water pollution if these materials enter storm drains, which ultimately leads to water bodies such as rivers and streams.
Track out control is critical 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.
Pavement Sweeping for 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. The soil is then carried away, causing potential 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 to 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
Airborne dust can be a health hazard for workers and surrounding communities. Sweeping helps reduce dust levels by removing dirt and debris from paved surfaces, which helps improve 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.
AE Commercial Property Maintenance Can Help
AE Commercial Property Maintenance understands the importance of maintaining a clean construction site. Their team of experts can provide comprehensive pavement and street sweeping services that meet your site’s specific needs. They 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 AE Commercial Property Maintenance today to learn more about how their sweeping services can benefit your construction site and help you meet your regulatory obligations.
