Environmental Standards Flashcards

Why is untreated glycol deicing runoff harmful to streams and rivers?

Answer: Its high biochemical oxygen demand depletes dissolved oxygen

As glycol breaks down it uses up dissolved oxygen in the water, which can kill fish and other aquatic life.

Which deicing fluid type is usually orange, applied heated and diluted, and removes frost, snow, or ice?

Answer: Type I

Type I fluid is low-viscosity, usually dyed orange, and applied hot to remove frozen contaminants.

What is the main environmental purpose of a designated deicing pad?

Answer: To collect spent deicing fluid for recovery or treatment

Deicing pads drain to collection systems so glycol can be captured instead of running off into stormwater.

What is a glycol recovery vehicle (GRV) used for?

Answer: Vacuuming spent deicing fluid off the pavement

GRVs vacuum up spent glycol from the pavement so it doesn't enter storm drains.

Which EPA regulation sets effluent limitation guidelines for airport deicing discharges?

Answer: 40 CFR Part 449

EPA set national airport deicing effluent guidelines in 40 CFR Part 449 in 2012.

Which of the following is least toxic and the most common glycol base in modern aircraft deicing fluids?

Answer: Propylene glycol

Propylene glycol is less toxic than ethylene glycol and is widely used in aircraft deicing fluids.

After deicing, a ramp agent sees fluid pooling near a storm drain outside the collection area. What is the right action?

Answer: Report it and use drain protection or absorbents according to the spill plan

Glycol escaping the collection area must be contained and reported under the airport's stormwater and spill procedures.