Common Stormwater BMP Failures at Industrial Sites
Stormwater BMPs often fail because they are not matched to the pollutant source, flow path, maintenance burden, or site operations. The best BMP is one that works during real storm conditions and can be maintained by the facility team.
Common failure patterns
- Filters clog because sediment sources were not controlled upstream.
- Drain inlet protection is bypassed by concentrated flow.
- Outdoor material storage is exposed to rainfall.
- Housekeeping BMPs are not maintained between inspections.
- Sampling locations do not represent the actual discharge.
Improvement approach
Start with source control, then improve flow control, treatment, inspection frequency, maintenance tracking, and corrective action documentation.
Related resources
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