The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) creates and enforces laws
that regulate the actions of certain industries in an effort to preserve the surrounding ecosystems.
When it comes to the construction industry, it’s critical that workers and managers do their part
to ensure full EPA compliance. Unfortunately, the heavy machinery, construction equipment,
and large-scale shifting of organic materials come with a significant risk of harmful
environmental impact. We’ve compiled a few of the industry’s best management practices
(BMPs) into one easy list. Take a look at our summary below, and refer to the EPA website for a
more comprehensive outline of its rules and regulations.
• Minimize Mass Clearing. Clearing a large plot of land can cause significant destabilization in
the ground. The soil relies on tree and grass roots to keep it firmly in place. Without this
stability, the soil will quickly become a muddy mess, prone to severe water erosion. Consider
building around natural features (trees, streams, wetlands, etc.) to keep them intact.
• Stabilize Loose Dirt. Clearing comes with the territory of construction, and it’s often
unavoidable. But be sure to stabilize the mountains of loose dirt in some way that will prevent it
from spreading through the air or water. Planting grass seed, bushes, or even spreading mulch is
a great way to keep water and wind erosion at bay.
• Utilize Silt Fences. Silt fences are designed to keep the sediment on the work site. Be sure that
they are properly secured with stakes, and bury the fences well into the ground to prevent them
from being washed away. Inspect the material for damage after each rainstorm, and replace as
needed.
• Maintain Slopes & Hills. Slopes and hills are particularly susceptible to water erosion. Prevent
rain from forming divots and streams by terracing your hills or planting grass. You could even
incorporate a barrier of rougher, sturdier material for longer slopes.
• Prepare the Exit. It’s essential that those leaving the site don’t carry the dirt and mud with them
onto the roads. There are several ways to ensure this doesn’t happen, including stone pads,

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shaker racks, and wheel wash systems. Any one or combination of these structures will remove
the dirt before vehicles head out onto the road.
Neptune Wash Solutions is leading the clean road revolution with customizable wheel
wash systems that will accommodate all types of vehicles and help keep your construction site
EPA-compliant. Take a look at our full lineup on our website, and receive a customized quote
today. Questions? Reach out and contact us directly to learn more!