Preventing Stormwater Pollution: Solid Waste Operations

Trash Collection

• Notify residents of persistent problems with scattered trash.
• Watch the area around the hopper to avoid leaving litter behind.
• Pick up any trash that falls from truck during compaction.

Hazardous Waste

DO NOT pick up hazardous wastes (flammables, toxics, explosives) such as:

• used batteries
• solvents
• fuels
• fluorescent bulbs
• pool chemicals
• pesticides/fertilizers
• fireworks
• ammunition

Notify residents of household hazardous waste collection/disposal opportunities.

Liquid Waste

• DO NOT pick up liquid wastes such as:
  • used motor oil
  • paint
  • antifreeze
  • cooling liquids
  • cooking oil

Pollution Prevention Equipment

• Carry spill kits on trash collection trucks and service vehicles.
• Kit should include:
  • broom
  • shovel
  • absorbent
  • pop-up pools

Leaks and Spills

• Check vehicle frequently for leaking fluids and notify supervisor of significant leaks.
• Locate source of spill and prevent further spillage.
• If a major spill or leak occurs, contain the spill using absorbents and take steps to stop the leak if possible.
• Immediately clean up spills to minimize safety hazards and deter spreading.

Vehicle Washing

• Make certain hopper drain plugs are always sealed during collection.
• Wash collection trucks only in facilities where wash water drains to the sanitary sewer system or is collected and recycled.

Transfer Stations and Drop-Off Operations

• Pick up all windblown litter and rubbish.
• Provide covered storage areas for solid and liquid wastes that will not be taken to the landfill.
• Dry sweep litter and rubbish periodically, especially during rainy and windy conditions.
•  Use litter screens such as:
  • chain link fences
  • steel mesh
  • orange construction fencing.

Preventing Runoff

• DO NOT overfill collection receptacles.
• DO NOT hose down w ork areas that drain into storm sewers or drainage ways.
• Conduct facility wash- down activities as directed by  the supervisor.
• Retain spills and prevent them from entering the environment.

Securing Trash

• Make sure lids on bins and receptacles are closed, especially during rain events.
• Notify haulers and citizens on requirements to cover loads during transport.

Mulching Operations

•  Remove trash and foreign materials from brush prior to grinding.
   Place trash and debris in covered containers.
•  Use litter screens (fencing) to capture windblown trash.
   Use mulch berms to filter runoff from work area.