Environmental stewardship practices for painting
operations minimize exposure of paints and solvents
to stormwater run-on and runoff. These Caltrans recommended
practices safeguard against the accidental release
of painting materials into storm drainage systems and
natural watercourses.[N]
Following these storage practices will reduce the
exposure of paints and supplies to stormwater run-on
and runoff at maintenance facilities:
- Where feasible, store paint materials in an area
with a canopy or roof designed to direct runoff away
from the storage area.
- Check for leaking or ruptured paint containers.
Careful transport of painting material to and from
the work site helps to prevent accidental spills:
- Load and unload paint on level ground when using
a forklift to minimize the chance of tip-overs and
potential spills.
- Ensure that all paint pallets are securely fastened
before moving.
- Secure the paint containers to the transport vehicle
using approved methods such as ropes and straps.
- Transport paint and materials to and from work
sites in containers with positive locking lids.
- Do not transfer or load paint over or near drain
inlets, stormwater drainage systems, or watercourses.
Proper application practices inhibit paint chips
and excess paint drift from being transported to storm
drainage systems or watercourses by wind or other means.
See section 7.3, Bridge Painting/Coating/Sealing and
Containment Stewardship Practices for more detailed
environmental stewardship practice.
- Monitor weather and wind direction to ensure that
paint drift is minimized and does not enter drain
inlets, stormwater drainage systems, or watercourses.
- If possible, use canvas or plastic tarps under
the work area to capture excess paint or paint chips.
- To avoid spills, follow proper operational procedures
for lane striping and paint applications.
- Ensure that the paint spray gun remains closed
when not in use to prevent leaks.
Thorough cleanup and disposal practices ensure that
paint-related hazardous materials are handled properly.
- Do not clean out the paint spray gun over the ground.
- Wipe up small paint spills immediately with rags.
For larger spills, use dry absorbent material.
- Collect all excess material and paint wash solutions
in appropriate containers. Secure all containers and
transport to a Maintenance facility for proper disposal.
- Dispose of used absorbent and rags, and empty paint
and solvent containers in appropriate containers at
a Maintenance facility that has approved storage areas.
- Special procedures may be required when removing
yellow stripes.
- Follow proper waste disposal procedures. Dispose
of hazardous waste according to regulations. Contact
the District Maintenance HazMat Manager or refer to
the Maintenance Hazardous Waste Manual for more information
and guidance.
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