After a Rain Event

After a rain event, it's important to conduct a thorough inspection of your manufacturing site to check for any signs of stormwater management failure. Here are key aspects to look for:

1. Pooling Water:

   • Check for areas where water is pooling or ponding. This can indicate inadequate drainage, blocked channels, or other issues preventing proper stormwater flow.

2. Erosion and Sediment Accumulation:

   • Inspect for signs of erosion and sediment accumulation. Excessive erosion or sedimentation may suggest ineffective erosion control measures or insufficient stormwater management.

3. Discolored Water:

   • Look for discolored water in stormwater runoff. Unusual colors may indicate the presence of pollutants or contaminants that require investigation.

4. Unusual Odors:

   • Pay attention to any unusual odors in stormwater runoff. Foul smells might indicate contamination, and identifying the source is crucial for corrective action.

5. Debris and Trash Accumulation:

   • Check for debris and trash in stormwater channels or collection areas. Excessive debris can impede flow and contribute to pollution.

6. Infrastructure Damage:

   • Inspect stormwater infrastructure for any signs of damage, such as cracks, erosion around structures, or displaced components. Damaged infrastructure may lead to system failure.

7. Stormwater Outfall Inspection:

   • Examine stormwater outfalls for any abnormalities. Ensure that outfalls are not blocked, and check for signs of erosion around these discharge points.

8. Vegetation Disturbance:

   • Observe the condition of vegetation in and around stormwater management areas. Disturbed or damaged vegetation may indicate erosion issues or improper landscaping.

9. Sediment Basins and Filters:

   • Inspect sediment basins and filtration systems. Ensure that they are effectively capturing and filtering sediment, preventing it from entering water bodies.

10. Documentation Review:

    • Review documentation related to stormwater management plans and previous inspections. Check for any patterns or recurring issues that need attention.

11. Monitoring Devices:

    • If your site is equipped with monitoring devices, review the data collected. Look for any anomalies or trends that might indicate stormwater management failure.

12. Runoff Patterns:

    • Observe runoff patterns and flow velocities. Sudden changes or irregularities may indicate issues with the stormwater conveyance system.

13. Stormwater Quality Testing:

    • Consider conducting stormwater quality testing. This can provide insights into the presence of pollutants and help identify potential sources of contamination.

14. Employee Feedback:

    • Gather feedback from employees who may have observed issues during or after the rain event. They can provide valuable on-the-ground insights.

15. Check Maintenance Records:

    • Review maintenance records for stormwater infrastructure. Ensure that routine maintenance tasks are up to date and that any recent maintenance activities were effective.

Regular and systematic post-rain event inspections are crucial for identifying and addressing stormwater management issues promptly. If you observe any potential failures or concerns, take immediate corrective action and, if necessary, consult with stormwater management professionals for further assessment.