ENV/Water Pollution/TBT-ENV-024
Concrete Washout Area Management
Environmental › Water Pollution › Concrete Washout Area Management
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Concrete Washout Area Management
Concrete washout water is highly alkaline with a pH of around 12 and contains fine suspended solids that are harmful to watercourses and drainage systems. Washing out concrete mixers, pumps, and tools directly onto the ground or into drains is an environmental offence that can result in prosecution and significant fines. A designated concrete washout area must be established on every site where concrete is used, and all washout water must be contained, settled, and disposed of correctly.
Key Hazards
Water pollution from alkaline concrete washout entering surface drains and watercourses
Soil contamination from repeated washout onto unprotected ground surfaces
Prosecution and fines from the Environment Agency for causing a pollution incident
Blocked drainage systems from concrete solids settling in surface water drains
Control Measures
- Establish a designated concrete washout area with an impermeable lined containment system.
- Direct all concrete mixer, pump, and tool washout to the designated area without exception.
- Position the washout area away from surface water drains, watercourses, and sensitive habitats.
- Install settlement tanks or filtration systems to separate solids from washout water before disposal.
- Dispose of settled solids as construction waste and treated water through an approved route.
- Brief all concrete delivery drivers and pump operators on the washout area location during site induction.
- Display signage directing all washout activities to the designated area.
- Monitor the washout area capacity and arrange regular emptying to prevent overflow.
- Never discharge concrete washout water directly to ground, drains, or any watercourse.
Remember
- Concrete washout water is highly alkaline and toxic to aquatic life in rivers and streams.
- Washing out concrete into drains or onto the ground is an environmental offence with serious penalties.
- A designated lined washout area must be established on every site where concrete is used.
- All concrete delivery drivers and pump operators must be briefed on the washout area location.
- Settlement and proper disposal of washout water is required — you cannot simply let it soak away.
- The Environment Agency monitors construction pollution actively and prosecutes offenders.
Applicable Legislation: Environmental Protection Act 1990 · Water Resources Act 1991 · Environmental Permitting Regulations 2016 · CDM Regulations 2015
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