Construction Runoff: Keep Soil on the Site

Know the hazard

Team: Builders. Topic: Environmental Protection.

A builder can defeat stormwater controls without touching a drain. Driving across a stabilized entrance incorrectly, burying a silt fence with stockpiles, or moving a barrier for a delivery can allow soil to leave the site during the next rain. The controls are part of the work layout and must remain functional as construction changes.

Use the controls

Follow the project stormwater pollution prevention plan and applicable permit requirements. Use designated access, protect inlet controls, stabilize disturbed areas as directed, and keep stockpiles within approved locations and cover arrangements. Do not move or modify controls without the responsible person's approval. A barrier is not a general trash fence and may fail if material is piled against it or runoff bypasses its ends.

Work within the safe plan

Report tears, undercutting, overflow, track-out, and changes in drainage promptly. Inspect and maintain controls through the assigned program, including required weather-related checks. Collect tracked sediment using the approved method rather than washing it into the street. Today follow the next delivery route and identify where it crosses or threatens a control. Arrange an approved crossing or revised route before the truck arrives, then verify the controls afterward. Preventing one access shortcut can avoid a release affecting neighbors and waterways long after the delivery leaves.

Discuss with the crew

A delivery crew folds down an inlet barrier to make a smoother turn.

Question: What should happen instead?
Answer guidance: Coordinate an approved access arrangement that preserves required stormwater protection.

Question: Should tracked soil be hosed into the gutter?
Answer guidance: No; recover it using the approved site method.

Prepare, act, and follow up

Leader preparation: Review the site stormwater plan and active control locations.

Put it into practice: Walk the delivery route and identify affected controls.

Supervisor follow-up: Assign prompt repair and postdelivery verification.

Official reference: EPA — Construction General Permit Resources
https://www.epa.gov/npdes/construction-general-permit-resources-tools-and-templates

Awareness briefing. Apply current site procedures and applicable requirements. This talk does not replace required qualification, practical training, exposure assessment, medical evaluation, or a written program.

Suggested session: 5-7 minutes, including discussion and activity. Prepared October 18, 2026; recheck current requirements before use.

Show the crew

Walk the delivery route and identify affected controls.