Make Stormwater Pollution Prevention Your Business!

Why It Matters?

Stormwater runoff can carry untreated pollutants from industrial facilities and construction sites directly into Lake Mead—the Valley’s primary drinking water source. Preventing stormwater pollution is essential for protecting water quality, complying with regulations, and maintaining a safe environment.

Best Management Practices (BMPs) for Industrial & Construction Si:tes

Implementing Best Management Practices (BMPs) can significantly reduce stormwater pollution

For more information on state and local stormwater compliance:

https://www.clarkcountynv.gov/government/departments/water_quality/stormwater_faqs.php?#collapse63362b0

https://webfiles.clarkcountynv.gov/Building%20%26%20Fire%20Prevention/Inspections/CONSTRUCTION%20SITE%20STORMWATER%20INSPECTION%20CHECKLIST%2009.14.20.pdf

https://ndep.nv.gov/water/rivers-streams-lakes/bmp-nv-bmp-handbook?

Q&A – General Stormwater Pollution Prevention

• Q: Why is stormwater pollution a concern?
  A: Unlike wastewater, stormwater is not treated before entering natural waterways. Pollutants can harm drinking water supplies, aquatic life, and public health.
• Q: How can businesses ensure compliance with stormwater regulations?
  A: Follow local stormwater permits, develop a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), and regularly inspect and maintain BMPs.
• Q: What are common stormwater pollutants?
  A: Oil, grease, heavy metals, sediment, chemicals, and debris from industrial and construction activities.

Q&A – Municipal Stormwater Resources

• Q: Where can I find stormwater regulations for my area?
  A: Contact your local stormwater management agency or check municipal websites for compliance guidelines.
• Q: Who enforces stormwater regulations?
  A: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), state environmental agencies, and local municipalities enforce stormwater regulations.
• Q: Where can I report illegal dumping or stormwater violations?
  A: Report to your local stormwater hotline or municipal environmental department.

Q&A – Industrial Facilities

1. Do industrial facilities in Clark County need a stormwater permit?
   No, facilities regulated by Clark County Water Quality do not need to obtain a separate county stormwater permit. However, industrial facilities may need to secure a Multi-Sector General Permit from the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP). Visit the NDEP website for more details.
2. How frequently are industrial facilities inspected?
   Inspections are conducted annually, periodically (every 2–5 years), or more frequently depending on the facility’s compliance status and history.
3. Can facility personnel attend inspections?
   Yes, it is recommended that a facility manager or representative be present during the inspection to address any questions or concerns.
4. Are any industrial facilities exempt from inspections?
   Certain facilities may qualify for exemptions based on their compliance history or operational status. Contact Clark County Water Quality for specific exemption criteria.
5. Is stormwater training available for industrial facilities?
   Yes, Clark County Water Quality offers stormwater compliance training to help facilities meet regulatory requirements and maintain best practices.

Q&A -Construction Sites

1. Are construction sites in Clark County required to have a stormwater permit?
   Yes, construction sites may need to obtain a stormwater permit depending on the size and nature of the project. Clark County Water Quality and NDEP provide guidance on permit requirements.
2. How often are construction sites inspected?
   Inspection frequency varies based on site conditions and compliance status but is typically conducted at key project phases or after major storm events.
3. Can construction site managers attend inspections?
   Yes, it is recommended that a site manager or representative be present to address any issues or questions during the inspection.
4. What steps should be taken when construction is complete?
   Once construction is finished, all temporary Best Management Practices (BMPs) should be removed, and permanent post-construction BMPs should be installed and maintained as required.

Post-Construction Facilities

1. What are post-construction Best Management Practices (BMPs)?
   Post-construction BMPs are long-term control measures designed to reduce pollution in stormwater runoff. They work by filtering, settling, trapping, or infiltrating contaminants before they leave the site.
2. What are the maintenance requirements for post-construction BMPs?
   Facilities are responsible for maintaining installed BMPs to ensure they remain effective. Regular inspections, cleaning, and repairs may be required to comply with local regulations.

Q&A- Residential

1. Is it allowed to wash vehicles at home?
   Yes, but it’s recommended to use a commercial car wash or wash the vehicle on grass or gravel to prevent runoff from entering storm drains.
2. How should swimming pools or spas be drained?
   Swimming pool or spa water should be drained into the sanitary sewer system or through appropriate filtration systems to prevent chemical contamination in stormwater.
3. Is cleaning allowed in the street gutter?
   No, washing or cleaning activities that discharge pollutants into the gutter or storm drain are prohibited.
4. Where can household hazardous waste be disposed of?
   Hazardous waste, such as paint, solvents, and batteries, should be disposed of at an approved household hazardous waste facility.

How-To

1. How can I report illegal discharges or polluted runoff?
   Illegal discharges and pollution can be reported to Clark County Water Quality through their website or by calling the stormwater compliance hotline.
2. How can I arrange a stormwater training?
   Schedule your training with best in the west safety TODAY!.

“At Best in The West Safety, Inc., our mission is to protect the health and safety of workers by providing precise, compliant, and efficient respirator fit testing services. We are committed to ensuring that every individual has properly fitted respiratory protection to safeguard against hazardous airborne contaminants. Through expert guidance, industry-leading equipment, and adherence to OSHA and NIOSH standards, we help businesses maintain compliance and promote a safer work environment for all.”

Types of Respiratory Protection:

1. Air-Purifying Respirators (APRs) – Filter contaminants from the air.

   Examples include:

   • Disposable Masks (N95, P100, etc.) – Protect against particulates.
   • Half-Face and Full-Face Respirators – Use replaceable filters/cartridges for protection against gases, vapors, and particulates.
   • Powered Air-Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) – Use a battery-powered blower to provide filtered air.
2. Atmosphere-Supplying Respirators (ASRs) – Provide clean air from an external source.

   Examples include:

   • Supplied-Air Respirators (SARs) – Connect to a clean air supply via hose.
   • Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) – Used in high-risk environments (e.g., firefighting).

Respiratory Protection Program Requirements:

• Hazard Assessment: Identify airborne hazards and select appropriate respirators.

• Medical Evaluation: Ensure workers are fit to wear respirators.
• Fit Testing: Ensure a proper seal for tight-fitting respirators.
• Training & Education: Teach proper usage, maintenance, and limitations.
• Maintenance & Storage: Regular cleaning, inspection, and replacement of filters/cartridges.
• Regulatory Compliance: Follow OSHA (29 CFR 1910.134), NIOSH, and other applicable safety standards.

Key Considerations:

• Use the correct filter or cartridge for the specific hazard.

• Ensure a proper fit for maximum protection.
• Replace filters when breathing resistance increases or according to manufacturer guidelines.
• Never use air-purifying respirators in oxygen-deficient or immediately dangerous environments.

Best Management Practices, BMPs are often referred to as controls in EPA’s Stormwater Management Standards under the Clean Water Act.  Two of the most commonly used BMPs are secondary containment for hazardous materials as shown on the upper left with two types of spill pallets.  One of the more common sediment control measures at construction sites is the use of daily or bi-weekly street sweepers to remove debris, sediment, trash to clean the street.