The East Palestine train derailment was a wakeup call to everyone about train safety, but it also showed how vulnerable our surface waters are and the connection to our drinking water supply. SWPPP stands for Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan. Typically, most of us just think of sediment and erosion control, but it also includes all forms of pollution that can contaminate surface and ground water from construction sites.
In the case of East Palestine, the train was carrying chemicals such as, vinyl chloride, an ingredient in hard plastics like PVC. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources estimates that the spill has killed nearly 44,000 animals in nearby waterways and the residents are concerned about the local water supply. This was noticeable in videos where people would stir up the bottom of local creek beds, which would produce a sheen.
This incident may seem like it is not relevant to the average construction site, but there are plenty of potential pollutants on most construction sites, which can cause similar concern and visual effects. Bulk fuel storage, potential vehicle leaks, paint washout, concrete washout, portable leaks, etc. have the potential to leave the site. It is important not just to focus on soil and erosion, but the whole Stormwater Pollution and Prevention Plan. Earthworks can help with ensuring the site has a SPCC plan if there is a large enough quantity of petroleum, making sure that the site has a spill kit, and ensuring that there is secondary containment for sensitive storage/washout containers.
