Catch Basin and Storm Drain Cleaning Safety

Key Hazards

• Workers struck by traffic while opening or servicing roadway drainage structures
• Crush and strain injuries from heavy, stuck, or unstable grates and covers
• Exposure to contaminated water, sewage, chemicals, sharps, and biological material
• Unexpected water flow, flooding, suction, or debris release
• Confined-space and hazardous-atmosphere exposure inside drainage structures
• Vacuum hose, boom, pressure hose, and equipment movement hazards

2–3 Minute Talk Script

Catch basins and storm drains collect more than rainwater. Sediment, fuel, chemicals, sewage, animal waste, sharps, and roadway debris may be present, so the crew should evaluate traffic, weather, flow, equipment, and contamination before opening the structure.

Traffic controls should protect both the structure and the vacuum or service vehicle. Workers should remain out of adjacent lanes and equipment blind spots and should avoid placing hoses or tools where vehicles can strike or drag them.

Grates and covers can be heavy, corroded, stuck, or under pressure. Approved lifting tools and mechanical assistance should be used, with hands and feet kept clear of the opening and the path where the cover may shift or fall.

Opening a drainage structure does not authorize entry. Workers should recognize when the space may meet the definition of a confined space and should follow the applicable evaluation, permit, atmospheric testing, ventilation, rescue, and entry procedures before anyone enters.

Weather and upstream conditions can change flow quickly. Cleaning should be postponed or stopped when storms, rising water, upstream releases, tidal effects, pumping changes, or unstable debris create a risk of flooding or sudden movement.

Vacuum hoses, booms, jetting lines, and pressure equipment should be inspected and controlled by trained workers. The crew should stay clear of hose movement, suction openings, high-pressure discharge, overhead lines, and boom swing areas.

Suitable gloves, eye and face protection, footwear, protective clothing, and hygiene practices should be used for contaminated material. Workers should avoid touching the face and should clean exposed skin and equipment according to site procedures.

Before leaving, the basin should be stable, the cover or grate seated correctly, debris removed, and the roadway cleared. A loose cover or unfinished opening can create a serious hazard for traffic and pedestrians.

Safety Reminders

• Protect the drainage structure and service vehicle from traffic.
• Use approved tools or mechanical help for grates and covers.
• Treat drainage material as potentially contaminated.
• Recognize confined spaces and never enter without the required program.
• Monitor weather, upstream flow, and changing water conditions.
• Control vacuum, boom, and pressure-equipment movement.
• Reseat covers and clear the roadway before leaving.

Ask the Crew

• What traffic and equipment positioning controls are needed?
• How will the grate or cover be lifted and controlled?
• Could weather or upstream conditions change the flow?
• Does any planned access require confined-space procedures?
• What contamination and hygiene controls are required?