Concrete storm drain
construction refers
to a specific niche area within the pipeline industry. This sort of work revolves
around installing, repairing, and maintaining the intricate drainage systems
used to eliminate excess water and prevent flooding within communities across
the nation.
There are
multiple phases of concrete
storm drain construction. In the initial phase, General Contractors must
employ civil engineers and subsurface engineering contractors to collect
information about the construction site and prepare design plans.
Next, storm
drain contractors are hired to prepare the site for excavation so pipeline can
be installed and fitted. Preparing the job site and installing drainage systems
is a complex process that necessitates specialized training and compliance with
EPA regulations.
The primary
reason for installing storm
drainage systems is to safeguard communities against flooding. Storm water
is carried to catch basins by gravitational pull. Water passes through curb
inlets and subsurface pipes to an outlet pipe where it is discharged into a
body of water.
Drainage systems
consist of two systems that work independently and together to manage water
flow. Minor systems are comprised of several components including pipes,
drains, catch basins, inlets, and swales.
More often than
not, minor systems perform most of the work. Major systems take over when minor
systems become bogged down due to excessive rain or snow melt. Components must
work together in harmony to push water to the point of discharge.
Despite the fact
storm drainage systems are a vital necessity for public protection, they are a
substantial contributor to water pollution. Even though public drainage systems
are monitored by the EPA, a substantial amount of toxins are discharged daily into
oceans, rivers, and streams.
Municipal
systems are outfitted with oil and water separator devices which lessen the
level of oil toxin discharge. Although these devices are beneficial they do not
prevent other kinds of environmental toxins from passing through the system.
Installing
sophisticated filtration systems would reduce the water flow and defeat the
purpose of the system. Storm drains must be capable of transporting runoff
water rapidly to lessen risks of flooding.
One way to
reduce the level of contaminants entering drainage systems is to become more
aware of what is being carried away with rain water. Products like motor oil,
antifreeze, pesticides, and insecticides are some of the most common toxins
found in storm water.
People can make
a big difference by eliminating use of toxic chemicals or switching to lawn
care treatments that are more natural. Those who change motor oil in their cars
or lawn mowers need to take great care to dispose of waste in accordance with
city ordinances.
Concrete
storm drain builders must abide by local and national waste water
management guidelines. Any time contractors are involved with construction
projects categorized as municipal, industrial, institutional, or commercial they
must acquire National Pollutant Discharge System Program permits.
Because of the intricacies
of concrete storm drain construction it is advisable to employ skilled
contractors who are properly licensed and certified. Always works with
reputable companies that are experienced in the particular kind of system that
is being installed or serviced.