ENV/Water Pollution/TBT-ENV-011
Silt and Sediment Control Measures
Environmental › Water Pollution › Silt and Sediment Control Measures
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Silt and Sediment Control Measures
Silt pollution is one of the most common environmental incidents on UK construction sites. Disturbed soil washed into rivers and streams by rainwater smothers fish spawning grounds, blocks light, and degrades water quality. The Environment Agency can issue enforcement notices and prosecution for pollution incidents. Preventing silt from leaving the site is a legal obligation and a daily responsibility for every operative.
Key Hazards
Watercourse pollution from silty runoff entering rivers and streams
Prosecution and fines from the Environment Agency for silt pollution
Damage to protected aquatic habitats and fish populations downstream
Blocked drainage systems from silt accumulation in site ditches and gullies
Control Measures
- Install silt fencing along the downhill side of all disturbed ground near watercourses.
- Construct settlement lagoons or use silt busters to treat site runoff before discharge.
- Maintain perimeter ditches and check dams to intercept silty water before it leaves site.
- Cover stockpiles of topsoil and excavated material to prevent erosion during rainfall.
- Inspect all silt control measures daily and after every period of heavy rain.
- Clean out settlement ponds and silt traps regularly to maintain their treatment capacity.
- Route construction traffic away from watercourse banks to avoid disturbing the bank edge.
- Brief all operatives on the importance of silt control and their role in maintaining measures.
- Report any discolouration of watercourses downstream of the site to the environmental manager immediately.
Remember
- Install silt fencing on the downhill side of all disturbed ground near watercourses
- Inspect silt control measures daily and after every period of heavy rain
- Cover all exposed stockpiles to prevent erosion and silt generation during rainfall
- Report any discolouration of nearby watercourses to the environmental manager immediately
- Silt pollution is a criminal offence that can result in prosecution and significant fines
Applicable Legislation: Environmental Protection Act 1990 · Environmental Permitting Regulations 2016 · Water Resources Act 1991 · CIRIA C532 (Control of Water Pollution from Construction Sites)
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