Routine inspections for storm water should focus on what areas?

Routine inspections for storm water management aim to identify and mitigate potential sources of contamination that could negatively impact water quality. Focusing on areas that have a greater potential to contaminate storm water is essential for preventing pollutants from entering the drainage system and ultimately local waterways. These areas often include loading docks, maintenance areas, storage facilities, and parts of the site where chemicals or waste materials might be present.

By inspecting these higher-risk zones regularly, operators can implement corrective actions, such as improving site practices or enhancing containment measures, to reduce the risk of pollution during rain events. This understanding is fundamental for compliance with regulations and for striving toward better environmental stewardship.

In contrast, areas with low potential for contamination would not warrant the same level of inspection focus, as they pose less risk to storm water quality. Inspecting only landscaping areas or administrative office spaces would likely overlook critical zones where significant pollutants could be present, thus risking regulatory non-compliance and environmental damage.