Storm water Awareness xxx What is storm water

> Storm water Awareness > xxx ®

What is storm water? • Storm water = rain which has run off hard surfaces (roads, roofs and car parks). • Storm water travels through pipes/channels and flows directly to streams and harbours with no treatment • Do you know where your storm water flows to?

Storm water pollutants Pollutants can enter the storm water system by being spilt, dumped, or washed there either on purpose or by the rain. Pollutants include: • Fuels and solvents • New and used oil • Resin and fines • Paint, inks and dyes Cement Paint • Food and drinks • Dirt/Sediment Detergent Resin • Washing liquid • Cigarette butts • Litter • Dog poo

Why is storm water pollution a problem? Storm water pollution can kill plants and animals: • Stormwater pollutants, like detergent, paint and garden waste, breakdown in water and use up oxygen needed by plants, fish and other aquatic animals. • Dirt makes waterways cloudy and can suffocate fish by clogging gills. It also restricts light which plants need to grow. • Litter clogs waterways and is dangerous and poisonous as it breaks down for birds, fish, animals and plants.

Why is storm water pollution a problem? Storm water pollution affects humans too: • Water can be polluted so we can’t swim in it or drink it • Pollutants can poison fish and shellfish

A little bit doesn’t matter? Yeah right! Count the people in this neighbourhood washing their cars. Added together that’s a lot of detergent down the drain A little bit does matter because it is multiplied again and again

But it’s biodegradable… • When biodegradable products, including cleaning products, enter waterways they break down using up oxygen from the water. This suffocates other aquatic life. • “Biodegradable” does not mean “environmentally friendly” Remember: The drain is just for rain

How can you stop storm water pollution at work? 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Cover waste bins and ensure they don’t leak Never allow washwater to enter outside drains - use designated wash areas Store oils and chemicals in a bunded area and check regularly Ensure drains near resin silos are guarded/meshed Don’t use a hose to wash things away – sweep them up Clean up spills/drips immediately or tell your supervisor – no matter how small. Make sure contractors on-site dispose of any wastewater they produce appropriately Keep your site clean and free of litter (eg: cigarettes, hair nets, ear plugs etc)

Remember: Storm water drains lead to natural waterways (sea, streams and lakes). The Drain is just for Rain!!