Did you know that catch basins help both minimize flooding and protect water quality by removing trash, sediment, decaying debris, and other solids from stormwater and snowmelt runoff? In essence, these materials are stored in a sump that is located below the invert of the outlet pipe. Catch basins must be cleaned on a regular basis in order to prevent clogs in the storm drain system, eliminate the release of foul odors, and reduce the amount of bacteria and suspended solids that end up reaching the local waterways such as streams, ponds, rivers, and the ocean.
Catch basin inspection in Massachusetts is also incredibly important. During the inspection, the technician can gather data that pertains to the condition of the structure including the physical basin, frame, grate, and even the quality of the stormwater that is running through the unit. The technician will also observe the levels of oil sheen, discoloration and trash/debris in order to indicate the sources of pollution that are located in the storm drain system. Bacteria and petroleum tend to create a sheen on the water surface.
The source of the sheen can be distinguished by moving it around with a pole. A sheen that is caused by an oil-based substances will remain intact. It will move in a swirl pattern. On the other hand, a sheen caused by bacteria will separate and appear to be blocky. Although a bacterial based sheen is not considered to be a pollutant, it should be noted. Each catch basin in your municipality should be cleaned and inspected at least on an annual basis. That being stated, catch basins that are located in congested areas may very well require cleaning and inspection on a more frequent basis.
Street sweeping does reduce the amount of debris, sediment, and organic matter that enters into the catch basins. That means street sweeping on a regular basis will reduce the amount of times per year that the catch basins should be cleaned and inspected. When date is collected, from catch basin inspection in Massachusetts, you will be able to build a list of catch basins in your city or town that are failing to operate up to par. These catch basins must be inspected on a far more frequent basis in order to determine if the problem will fix itself, the catch basin needs repairs, or the catch basin needs to be completely replaced.
For example, catch basins that are over 50% full of debris and sediment during two (2) consecutive inspections should be added to the list. In addition, catch basins that are located near construction sites must be monitored on a regular basis. Last but certainly not least, catch basins that are loaded with pollutants during two (2) consecutive inspections require special attention in the form of frequent inspections.
If you have any questions about catch basin inspection, catch basin cleaning, and or catch basin overall maintenance, or would like to schedule service we are happy to help. Jolin Paving & Excavating, Inc. is your New England connection for a vast variety of environmentally related services. Our company has been serving Boston Massachusetts, Southern NH, VT & ME as well as Northern CT & RI since 1952. Please Contact us to learn more today.
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