Full Text
Catch Basin Maintenance Cleaning catch basins regularly is one of the most important pollution prevention measures that a business can take. Catch basins are typically located at low spots in parking lots, along curbs and road edges. Catch basins collect surface runoff into pipes inside the basin, eventually the water is discharged to a stream. Most catch basins have some storage, or a sump, in the bottom that never drains to an outflow pipe. The sump is intended to trap sediments, debris, garbage and other particles that can settle out of stormwater, thus preventing clogging of pipes and sedimentation in streams. All of the solids and stagnant water collected in catch basin sumps must be periodically removed and disposed of properly. The sump contents cannot be flushed into the catch basin outflow pipe. Perform regular inspections of the basins and their grates. Maintenance to remove trash and collected sediment is required when 60% of the sump depth has been filled or if sediments are within 6 inches of the bottom of the outlet pipe. Frequent sweeping of outdoor areas, covering storage areas, and containing run-off that may have pollution sources will help reduce catch basin cleaning frequency, thus saving time and money. Use of catch basin inserts such as filter socks, absorbent pillows, and filter baskets require an increased inspection frequency to prevent plugging and flooding.