© 2023 All rights reserved to TST. Design by HIGH5
Preparing for Construction Site Reopening After Winter : Environmental and Sustainable Management
The snowmelt marks a critical period for construction sites, particularly in Quebec, where the winter is harsh and the thaw sudden. This transition exposessites to several environmental challenges, including runoff management and the prevention of soil and water course contamination.
One of the main risks associated with thawing is the transport of sediment and contaminants to surrounding ecosystems. Meltwater can carry construction site residues, hydrocarbons or fine particles into drainage systems, which can causes oil erosion and pollution of nearby rivers and lakes.
It is important to note that construction sites should also consider the environmental protection requirements included in sustainability certifications, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design).These certifications require construction sites to implement measures tominimize their environmental impact.
To anticipate the challenges associated with snowmelt and ensure sustainable management of the site, several preventive actions should be implemented as soon as activities resume:
▮ Reinstallation of sedimentation barriers: The pressure exerted by snow and ice can weaken or displace these barriers, which are essential for retaining suspended particles. Checking them and repositioning them in sensitive areas is therefore a priority.
▮ Replacing the geotextile membranes in the catch basins: After a winter in which the catch basins have been exposed to the elements, it is crucial to ensure that the filter membranes are properly installed to limit the entry of sediment into the drainage systems.
▮ Maintenance of site entrances and exits: Mud anddebris carried by vehicles can spread onto public roads, leading to risks ofpollution and accidents. Adding or renewing rock beds at access points helps toreduce this phenomenon.
▮ Increased cleaning frequency: With increasedhumidity, construction site surfaces and roadside areas can deterioratequickly. Measures such as washing truck wheels, sweeping streets and removingwaste must be intensified to maintain a clean and safe environment.
▮ Management of contaminated water: Concrete washing basins and other wastewater retention areas require special attention to prevent uncontrolled discharge into the environment. Filtration and treatment systems must be put in place to remove harmful particles before discharge.
Adopting these measures as soon as construction sites thaw helps limit the environmental impacts associated with snowmelt and comply with current sustainable development standards. Proactive and continuous management is essential to ensure the protection of ecosystems, compliance with regulatory requirements and the sustainability of construction projects.
By integrating these good practices, companies in the sector are actively contributing to a more responsible industry, where environmental performance is a central issue from the earliest stages of the resumption of work.
