1996-02-06_REVISION - M1977493 (14)

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• • Chapter 4-Site-Specific Industrial Storm Water BMPs What Are They Sumps are holes or low areas that are structured so that liquid spills or leaks will flow down toward a particular part of a containment area. Frequently, pumps are placed in a depressed area and are turned on automatically to transfer liquids away from the sump when the level of liquids gets too high. Sumps can be temporary or permanent. I When and Where to Use Them Sumps can be used at all facilities. Sumps are used with other spill containment and treatment measures and can be located almost anywhere onsite. Sumps are frequently located in low lying areas within material handling or storage areas. I What to Consider When designing and installing a sump system, consider the pump location, function, and system alarms. Design and install the sump in the lowest lying area of a containment structure, allowing for materials to gather in the area of the sump. Construct the sump of impenetrable materials and provide a smooth surface so that liquids are funneled toward the pump. It may be appropriate to house the pumps in a shed or other structure for protection and stabilization. There are numerous factors that should be considered when purchasing a pump. Base the size of the pump on the maximum expected volume to be collected in the containment structure. In some cases, more than one pump may be appropriate. Typically, pumps that can be submerged under the spill are the most appropriate for areas where large spills may occur and that may submerge the sump area. The viscosity (thickness) of the material and the distance that the material must be pumped are also important considerations. Install pumps according to the manufacturer's recommendations. An alarm system can be installed for pumps that are used to remove collected materials. An alarm system can indicate that a pump should be operated by hand or that an automatically operated pump has failed to function. Ultimately, facility personnel should have some mechanism to take action to prevent spills from by-passing and overflowing containment structures. The pumps and the alarm system used in the sump generally require regular inspections for service and maintenance of parts based on manufacturers' recommendations. If it is possible that the sump may handle combustible or flammable spilled materials, explosion- proof pumping equipment and controls or other appropriate precautions should be taken to prevent explosions or fires. Consult OSHA and local safety codes and standards for specific requirements and guidance. 11 4-20