Construction professionals are wary of storms because stormwater runoff causes damage to property and severe soil erosion. Stormwater overflows occur whenever rainwater is led to drainage systems and directed to natural water resources like lakes, streams, and rivers. Stormwater runoff carries with it harmful substances and debris that pollute natural water resources, thereby posing health risks to people, plants, fish, and animals. While stormwater overflow is considered a primary source of polluted water, it's not the only culprit. Water from melted snow may also contain contaminants; the discharge can subsequently harm lakes, streams, and rivers. Because of its environmental impact and potential damage to property, those in the construction industry are advised to adopt stormwater best management practices in everyday operations. An effective way of managing stormwater runoff is to ensure that it's pollutant-free. For this reason, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends the use of storage chambers at construction sites. Storage chambers are tube-like devices that can act as temporary storage units for stormwater runoff. For optimum results, storage chambers must be used in conjunction with sediment traps, small impoundments installed in drainage systems that trap sediment gathered as a result of storms and other inclement weather conditions. These modern storm water systems help remove pollutants from stormwater, thereby ensuring its quality and safety in case it gets discharged into rivers, lakes, and streams. Meanwhile, the sediment traps get rid of pollutants by breaking them down into non-toxic byproducts. Since storm water storage systems are installed underground, they should be able to function in any type of soil, even in clay soil. Prior to installation, the area will first need to be excavated and equipped with a drainage field, which directs the wastewater to be filtered into the ground and into the storage systems. When excavating an area, proper measurements must be observed to ensure a proper fit for the storage systems. Storage systems are usually made of glass-reinforced plastic or polyvinyl chloride, the same material used in PVC pipes. A lot of manufacturers these days also use recycled materials to make the sediment traps more environment-friendly. For more information, visit cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater/menuofbmps/index.cfm?action=factsheet_results&view=specific&bmp=59.
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