CESSWI Pollution Prevention and Good Housekeeping

Question 1

Where should a concrete washout area be located on a construction site to prevent stormwater contamination?

Accepted Answer

At least 50 feet from storm drains, streams, and other water bodies

Answer

Directly adjacent to the nearest storm drain inlet for easy drainage

Answer

Upslope from all drainage channels to allow natural dilution

Answer

Within 10 feet of the concrete mixing area regardless of drainage patterns

Question 2

Which of the following is the BEST practice for storing bulk fuels and lubricants on a construction site?

Accepted Answer

Place containers inside secondary containment capable of holding 110% of the largest container's volume

Answer

Store containers on bare soil in a low-lying area so spills naturally disperse

Answer

Stack containers near the site entrance for quick access during emergencies

Answer

Store all fuels and lubricants directly on impervious pavement without additional containment

Question 3

A construction crew spills hydraulic fluid near a storm drain. What is the FIRST action the inspector should ensure is taken?

Accepted Answer

Stop the source of the spill and prevent it from entering the storm drain

Answer

Dilute the spill with water and flush it into the storm drain

Answer

Document the spill and notify the state agency within 24 hours before any cleanup

Answer

Apply dry cement powder to neutralize the hydraulic fluid

Question 4

Construction site solid waste, such as packaging and scrap materials, must be managed to prevent stormwater pollution. What is the required minimum frequency for solid waste removal from most active construction sites?

Accepted Answer

Weekly, or more frequently if waste containers are full

Answer

As needed, with no defined frequency required by NPDES permits

Answer

Monthly, provided containers have adequate capacity

Answer

Daily, as all waste must be removed from the site each evening

Question 5

Portable sanitary facilities (portable toilets) on construction sites should be positioned to minimize stormwater contamination. Which placement is MOST appropriate?

Accepted Answer

On stable, level ground away from drainage channels, storm drains, and water bodies

Answer

In a low-lying area downhill from the site so runoff carries waste away from work areas

Answer

Adjacent to the nearest stream to allow for emergency overflow in heavy rain events

Answer

Clustered near the site entrance on bare soil for easy servicing access

Question 6

Which of the following materials stored on a construction site poses the GREATEST pH-related risk to aquatic life if it enters a waterway via stormwater runoff?

Accepted Answer

Concrete and mortar washout water

Answer

Wood shavings from lumber cutting

Answer

Topsoil stockpile runoff

Answer

Plastic sheeting and packaging waste

Question 7

Under good housekeeping practices, how should paints, solvents, and other hazardous construction chemicals be stored on site?

Accepted Answer

In original labeled containers under cover, within secondary containment, away from drains

Answer

Opened and repackaged into unmarked containers for convenience, stored outdoors

Answer

Adjacent to water sources for easy cleanup access when containers are emptied

Answer

Stored loosely on open shelving to allow vapors to dissipate naturally