1996-02-06_REVISION - M1977493 (14)

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Chapter 4-Site-Specific Industrial Storm Water BMPs Sweeping' What Is It Sweeping with brooms, squeegees, or other mechanical devices is used to remove small quantities of dry chemicals and dry solids from areas that are exposed to precipitation or storm water runoff. These areas may include dust or contaminant covered bags, drums containing remaining materials on their lids, areas housing enclosed or covered materials, and spills of dry chemicals and dry solids in locations on the industrial site. Cleaning by sweeping with brooms is a low cost practice that can be performed by all employees and requires no special equipment or training. When and Where to Use It Sweeping can be used at many material handling areas and process areas in all types of industrial facilities. Timing is an important consideration for all mitigative practices. To be effective as a storm water control, cleanup must take place before rainfall or contact with storm water runoff or before an outside area is hosed down. Do not limit your cleanup activities to those outside activities that are exposed to rainfall. In many cases, tracking of materials to the outside from areas that are enclosed or covered (e.g., on shoes) may also occur. What to Consider Store brooms appropriately and do not expose them to precipitation. In addition, rules of compatibility also apply. Do not use the same broom to clean up two chemicals that are incompatible. Determine the compatibility between the brooms themselves and the chemical of concern before using this practice. In some instances, chemicals should be vacuumed instead of swept. Be sure that swept material is disposed of properly. Advantages of Sweeping • Is inexpensive • Requires no special training • Provides -=cycling opportunities Disadvantages of Sweeping • Is a labor-intensive practice • Is limited to small releases of dry materials 4-29