Environmental compliance is the responsibility of ensuring that construction projects adhere to environmental regulations. Contractors are responsible for mitigating environmental impacts and ensuring that the project does not harm the environment.
When working on a construction project, a contractor must be aware of the many environmental regulations. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines and other penalties.
Environmental Compliance for Commercial Building Construction
Here are some tips for new commercial building contractors to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
1. Sustainability
Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important consideration in construction projects. Contractors should take steps to integrate sustainable practices into their operations. That includes using recycled materials, reducing energy consumption, and promoting environmental awareness among workers.
2. Contract Specifications
Contractors should include environmental compliance requirements in their contract specifications. That will ensure that both the contractor and the client are aware of their responsibilities and can hold each other accountable.
3. Site Inspections
The client may conduct periodic site inspections to ensure that the contractor complies with all environmental regulations. Contractors should prepare to show documentation of compliance upon request.
4. Subcontractors
Contractors are responsible for ensuring that their subcontractors comply with all environmental regulations. They should include ecological compliance requirements in their subcontract agreements and provide training to their subcontractors.
5. Training
Contractors must ensure that all workers on the job site are trained adequately in environmental compliance. That includes safe work practices, hazardous material handling, and stormwater management training.
6. Recordkeeping
Contractors should maintain records of all environmental compliance activities for future reference. That includes descriptions of inspections, reports, and training certificates.
7. Site Plans
Site plans should include detailed stormwater management, hazardous material storage, and waste disposal information. That will help contractors stay in compliance with all environmental regulations.
8. Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan
The Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) is a critical document for contractors working on commercial construction projects. The SWPPP outlines how the contractor will prevent pollutants from entering stormwater drains. Contractors should work with their engineers to develop an SWPPP that meets all regulatory requirements. Alternatively, there are independent consultants specializing in drafting this for every project.
9. Stormwater Management
Stormwater runoff can be a significant source of pollution on construction sites. Contractors should take steps to reduce the amount of stormwater runoff from the job site. That includes using the correct drainage systems, reducing the amount of paved surfaces, and planting vegetation to absorb stormwater.
10. Pollution Prevention
Pollution prevention is one of the critical goals of environmental compliance. Contractors should take steps to prevent pollution from occurring at the job site. That includes using the correct equipment and materials, properly disposing of wastes, and reducing waste production.
11. Air Emissions
Air emissions can be a significant source of pollution on construction sites. Contractors should reduce emissions from all sources, including vehicles, equipment, and workers. That includes using the correct engine oils and fuels, maintaining equipment, and proper work practices.
12. Material Safety Data Sheets
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) contain important information on the safe handling of hazardous materials. Contractors should ensure that all workers have access to these sheets and are familiar with their contents.
13. Sampling and Testing
Contractors may be required to submit samples for testing to ensure that they are complying with all environmental regulations. They should have a plan for these samples’ safe handling and transport.
14. Asbestos
Asbestos is a hazardous material that can cause serious health problems if inhaled. Contractors working on asbestos projects must take special precautions to avoid exposure. That includes properly encapsulating asbestos-containing materials, using proper personal protective equipment, and training workers in safe handling procedures.
15. Lead
Lead is also a hazardous material that can cause serious health problems if inhaled. Contractors working on projects that contain lead must take special precautions to avoid exposure. That includes using proper personal protective equipment, training workers in safe handling procedures, and properly disposing of lead-containing wastes.
16. Site Cleanup
Contractors are responsible for cleaning up the job site upon project completion. That includes removing all construction debris, restoring any disturbed areas, and cleaning up any spills or releases.
17. Waste Management
Waste management is another critical aspect of environmental compliance. Contractors must ensure that they follow all local, state, and federal regulations for waste disposal. That includes appropriately segregating wastes, using authorized landfills and transfer stations, and complying with hazardous waste regulations.
18. Reporting Violations
If the contractor discovers a violation of any environmental regulation, they must report it to the proper authorities. They should keep records of all related correspondence and documentation. They should also keep records of all environmental compliance activities for future reference.
19. Third-Party Certification
Some contractors may choose to seek third-party certification for environmental compliance. That shows that they are taking steps to ensure responsible operations and can help them win contracts with environmentally conscious clients.
Build Safely
These tips can help contractors ensure compliance with all applicable regulations. That includes using the correct drainage systems, reducing the number of paved surfaces, and planting vegetation to absorb stormwater. In addition, contractors should adequately train workers in environmental compliance. That includes safe work practices, hazardous material handling, and stormwater management training. By following these tips, contractors can help keep their construction projects running smoothly and safely while staying environmentally compliant.
