1. > Storm water Awareness
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2. What is storm water?
Storm water = rain which has run off hard surfaces (roads, roofs and car parks).
Storm water travels through pipes/channels and flows directly to streams and harbours with no treatment
Do you know where your storm water flows to?

3. Storm water pollutants
Pollutants can enter the storm water system by being spilt, dumped, or washed there either on purpose or by the rain.
Pollutants include:
Fuels and solvents
New and used oil
Resin and fines
Paint, inks and dyes
Food and drinks
Dirt/Sediment
Washing liquid
Cigarette butts
Litter
Dog poo
Cement
Paint
Detergent
Resin

4. Why is storm water pollution a problem?
Storm water pollution can kill plants and animals:
Stormwater pollutants, like detergent, paint and garden waste, breakdown in water and use up oxygen needed by plants, fish and other aquatic animals.
Dirt makes waterways cloudy and can suffocate fish by clogging gills. It also restricts light which plants need to grow.
Litter clogs waterways and is dangerous and poisonous as it breaks down for birds, fish, animals and plants.

5. Why is storm water pollution a problem?
Storm water pollution affects humans too:
Water can be polluted so we can’t swim in it or drink it
Pollutants can poison fish and shellfish

6. A little bit doesn’t matter? Yeah right!
Count the people in this neighbourhood washing their cars.
Added together that’s a lot of detergent down the drain
A little bit does matter because it is multiplied again and again and again

7. But it’s biodegradable…
When biodegradable products, including cleaning products, enter waterways they break down using up oxygen from the water. This suffocates other aquatic life.
“Biodegradable” does not mean “environmentally friendly”
Remember: The drain is just for rain

8. How can you stop storm water pollution at work?
Cover waste bins and ensure they don’t leak
Never allow washwater to enter outside drains - use designated wash areas
Store oils and chemicals in a bunded area and check regularly
Ensure drains near resin silos are guarded/meshed
Don’t use a hose to wash things away – sweep them up
Clean up spills/drips immediately or tell your supervisor – no matter how small.
Make sure contractors on-site dispose of any wastewater they produce appropriately
Keep your site clean and free of litter (eg: cigarettes, hair nets, ear plugs etc)

9. Storm water drains lead to natural waterways
Remember:
Storm water drains lead to natural waterways
(sea, streams and lakes).
The Drain is just for Rain!!