Good housekeeping practices are simply maintaining a safe, orderly, and clean work environment. Some ways of doing this include:
- Improving operation and maintenance of machinery and processes.
- Implement careful storage practices.
- Keep a current up-to-date inventory, and label all containers.
- Schedule routine cleanup operations.
- Train employees on good housekeeping techniques.
A program must be developed that includes inspections and routine maintenance of all equipment, including tanks, drums, and containers, and other facility operations. The best way to stop a spill is to never allow it to spill to begin with.
In areas that have been designated with a high possibility of a leak or spill, permittees should ensure that employees are aware of correct response procedures, including material handling and storage requirements. Spill cleanup equipment must be on site at high risk locations. A spill plan should be formulated in case of an emergency, including notifying the appropriate authorities.
The plan must identify activities that present a potential for significant soil erosion, and any measures taken to control such erosion.
The plan should also include any existing storm water controls such as vegetative swales, reuse of collected storm water, infiltration trenches, or detention ponds.