According to the “Get the Site Right” campaign, a joint taskforce involving the Georges Riverkeeper, Parramatta River Catchment Group, and other local councils, aiming to improve erosion and sediment control on building sites many construction sites were failing to comply with regulations, resulting in severe environmental impacts and hefty fines. Builders are legally required to have a comprehensive erosion and sediment control plan, with fines ranging from $8,000 to $15,000 for each incident of non-compliance¹.

On top of these council task force, the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) sanctions fines in the construction industry, primarily targeting environmental compliance violations. Here are the top three most common fines:

• Illegal Dumping: This involves the unauthorised disposal of waste, especially hazardous materials. Penalties for illegal dumping can range from $250,000 to $1 million for companies and up to $250,000 for individuals.
• Improper Dewatering Practices: Dewatering involves removing groundwater or surface water from a construction site. Inadequate practices can lead to significant fines, especially if contaminated water is discharged improperly. Fines for water pollution can reach up to $1 million for corporations and $250,000 for individuals. In severe cases, fines can escalate to $10 million for companies and $2 million for individuals.
• Skipping Detailed Site Investigation (DSI) Requirements: Failing to conduct proper site investigations before starting construction can lead to substantial penalties. These fines can range from $1 million to $10 million, depending on the severity of the violation.

These fines highlight the importance of adhering to environmental regulations and implementing effective erosion and sediment control measures on construction sites. By using products like silt curtains, dewatering bags, silt socks, concrete washout bunds and drain guards, builders can significantly reduce the risk of incurring these penalties and contribute to environmental protection.

Key Products for Effective Control

To avoid these fines and protect the environment, builders can use several key products:

1. Silt Curtains: These are essential for controlling sediment in water bodies adjacent to construction sites. They act as barriers, preventing sediment from spreading and contaminating larger areas.
2. Dewatering Bags: These are used to filter water pumped from construction sites, trapping sediment and preventing it from entering stormwater systems.

3. Silt Socks: These are flexible tubes filled with filter media that trap sediment and pollutants from stormwater runoff, preventing them from entering waterways.
4. Drain Guards: These are installed in storm drains to capture sediment, debris, and pollutants, ensuring that only clean water enters the drainage system.
5. Concrete Washout Bunds: These contain and treat washout water from concrete mixers and pumps, preventing harmful chemicals from contaminating the environment

Best Practices

• Regular Inspections: Conduct regular site inspections to ensure all control measures are in place and functioning correctly.
• Proper Installation: Ensure that silt curtains and dewatering bags are installed correctly and maintained throughout the construction process.
• Training: Educate your team on the importance of erosion and sediment control and how to use these products effectively.

By implementing these measures, builders can not only avoid costly fines but also contribute to a healthier and safer environment. Remember, effective erosion and sediment control is a win-win for both compliance and conservation.