To reduce the amount of erosion and sediment buildup at entrance and exit sites of construction areas, proper procedures must be put into place. This is because vehicular traffic, particularly heavy construction vehicles, does considerable damage to the soil. By putting the proper measures into place, the damage caused by vehicular traffic can be minimized. This is not to say there is a perfect solution and that weather events may still cause issues, but the proper methods can go a long way to minimize the situation.
Adding gravel or woody slash can protect the soil underneath and minimize the damage caused by the traffic. In addition, there are portable protects that aid in control of entrance and exit areas. Tracking pads for example are a must for all entrance and exit locations. Plus, a wash station may be installed to clean muddy vehicles before the leave the premises.
Implementation
The first step is the location of all entrance and exit areas that are to be used. Once location, the area should be prepared for maximum effectiveness of the gravel pads and other treatments to minimize the erosion process. This means entrance and exit areas that do not have steep grades, an unusual amount of loose soil, or areas that curve into public roads as this might present a danger to the public.
Gravel pads must use rocks of 50mm to 75mm and be hard, angular, and durable for maximum effectiveness. The use of erosion control drawings for placement of the gravel should be made as well. The pad itself must be at least 150mm thick and roughly 3.6 m wide and 13 meters in length. Since gravel tends to be loose, it is recommended that additional gravel be used to top dress the entrance and exit roads, so that they maintain their beds properly.
It is recommended that all vehicles, especially their tires are washed regularly to prevent the buildup of sediment. By washing them prior to exiting onto the city streets, the sediment is kept on the site itself and does not affect surrounding property or the roads. Any sediment or mud that is spilled onto the city streets or onto other properties must be cleaned immediately.
Admittedly, there is arguably not perfect way to address the sediment that may escape construction sites and find their ways onto road. By using the proper, established methods, following local laws, and observing diligence in the cleaning of vehicles and maintenance of gravel beds, it is possible to substantially minimize the potential of sediment from building up outside the site.
Inspection & Maintenance
The gravel pad needs to be maintained properly so that no significant buildup of mud or sediment can occur. The inspections can be timed to every significant rainfall or large snowmelt. Plus, they should be held regularly to catch any buildup in the early stages, so that whatever cleaning needs to be done is minimal.
By maintaining proper inspection and maintenance procedures, the entrance and exit locations of your construction area will not carry significant mud and sediment away from the site.
Tag: construction, erosion control, Sediment Control, BMP’s, Gravel Pads
