how to Prevention bacteria pollution at work
Did you know that businesses can contribute to bacteria entering our freshwater resources? Don’t fret, you can learn more about how to prevent it below!
All businesses have the potential to contribute to stormwater pollution. Stormwater runoff is rain and snow melt that flow off your property or water generated from your business
Stormwater pollution is when runoff picks up pollutants, such as bacteria, and does not get treated before it enters freshwater systems. The type of work you do can influence how you can protect our waters while at work. All businesses can respect our waters by following these stormwater-friendly practices:
If it's not rain, it doesn't belong down the drain
Do not put any substances down the storm drain system.
Contain, don’t drain
If loose materials are left outside, cover them.
Seal up that garbage
Keep your garbage and dumpsters closed.
Businesses that work with food or animals have a greater potential to contribute bacteria to our freshwater resources. For example, this can include businesses like restaurants, grocery stores, pet stores, animal day care centers, or veterinary clinics. If you own or work at one of these businesses, learn how to protect our waters while at work below.
If you work with animals
Businesses that work with animals are not strangers to animal waste. Animal waste contains dangerous bacteria that can be a threat to human health and our freshwater resources. If animal waste is left outside, it can be picked up by stormwater and then get into our freshwater.
Did you know the EPA estimates that two or three days' worth of droppings from 100 dogs in a watershed can contribute enough bacteria to impact the surrounding 20 miles and make them unsafe for fishing and swimming? That is why animal waste management is important for Respecting Our Waters. By following these tips, you can prevent bacteria pollution:
Pick up animal waste as soon as possible. Especially before a storm or snow event.
Put animal waste in the trash. Landfills are lined to protect them from leakage.
Make sure your dumpster and/or garbage lids are closed.
If you work with food
Grocery stores and restaurants will at one time or another have leftover or excess food that needs to be thrown away. Food waste can promote bacteria growth in warm and wet conditions (like a dumpster in the spring). That is why dumpster management is important. By following these dumpster tips, you can respect our waters at work:
Always keep your dumpster lid closed and secured.
Inspect regularly to ensure there are no cracks or leaks.
Always bag trash before putting it in the dumpster; it provides an extra layer of protection.