Because of the potential danger to our environment, the government has required contractors to use a professional-grade inlet filter and to erect their own sediment control solutions and measures when starting any new project. Inlet protection can be constructed from rock socks, sediment control logs, silt fence, block and rock socks, or other materials approved by the local jurisdiction.

Understanding the Basics of Inlet Protection

Inlet protection is a crucial aspect of inlets construction practices that involves preventing sediment, debris, and other contaminants from entering stormwater drainage systems. This temporary sediment control measure is essential for diverting water laden with pollutants away from the drainage system, thereby preventing the clogging of storm sewer inlets and local streams. By maintaining water quality, inlet protection plays a vital role in safeguarding the environment.

Inlet protection devices are specifically designed to capture sediment and other contaminants before they enter the drainage system. These devices can be installed in various locations, including catch basins, curb inlets, and storm sewer inlets. Typically used in areas with unstabilized land, such as construction sites, utility work areas, and landscape renovations, inlet protection ensures that debris and pollutants are effectively managed.

The Benefits of Securing Your Job Site with Inlet Protection

Erosion Control in Your Drainage System

Inlet protection acts as a robust barrier against sediment runoff, preventing erosion and maintaining the integrity of your job site. It ensures that valuable soil stays in place, reducing the environmental impact. Regular maintenance is crucial to remove sediment build-up from inlet protection devices to maintain their safety and efficacy.

Compliance with Regulations

Stay on the right side of environmental regulations. Inlet protection measures demonstrate your commitment to responsible construction practices, helping you avoid potential fines and delays associated with non-compliance.

Water Quality Preservation

By effectively filtering and trapping sediment, inlet protection contributes to preserving water quality. This not only benefits the surrounding environment but also safeguards local water bodies from contamination. Drainage inlets and catch basins are commonly used in parking lots to manage excess stormwater runoff, ensuring efficient drainage solutions in both sag and on-grade configurations.

Enhanced Safety

A well-protected inlet adds an extra layer of safety to your job site. It minimizes the risk of sediment-related accidents, creating a secure working environment for your team. Maintaining and analyzing a particular inlet is crucial to ensure its proper functionality and safety, especially during winter conditions.

Community Relations

Show your commitment to environmental stewardship and community well-being. Implementing inlet protection measures demonstrates responsible construction practices, enhancing your reputation with local communities.

Identifying Different Inlet Types for Effective Protection

There are several types of storm drain inlets that can be used for effective inlet protection, each serving a specific purpose:

• Curb Inlets: The most common type of storm drain inlet, curb inlets are typically used in urban areas to capture stormwater runoff from streets and sidewalks.
• Curb Grate Inlets: Similar to curb inlets, these inlets feature a grate or screen to capture debris and sediment, preventing them from entering the drainage system.
• Drop Curb Inlets: Designed for areas with heavy stormwater runoff, drop curb inlets are capable of capturing large amounts of water, making them ideal for high-flow situations.
• Combination Inlets: Used in areas with high stormwater runoff, combination inlets are designed to capture both stormwater and debris, ensuring comprehensive protection.

Choosing the right type of inlet is essential for effective inlet protection, as it ensures that the specific needs of the drainage area are met.

Innovative Methods to Safeguard Your Construction Site

Several techniques can be employed for effective inlet protection, each designed to capture sediment and other contaminants before they enter the drainage system:

• Inlet Protection Devices: These devices are specifically designed to capture sediment and other contaminants, preventing them from entering the drainage system. Examples include silt sacks, filter fabric wraps, and coir wattles.
• Sediment Traps: These traps are designed to capture sediment and other contaminants in stormwater runoff, preventing them from reaching storm sewer inlets.
• Erosion Control Measures: Implementing erosion control measures, such as silt fences and straw wattles, helps prevent soil disturbance and erosion on construction sites, reducing the amount of sediment that can enter the drainage system.
• Regular Maintenance: Ensuring that inlet protection devices are functioning properly requires regular maintenance. This includes inspecting and cleaning devices to remove accumulated sediment and debris.

By understanding and implementing these techniques, construction sites can be effectively safeguarded, and water quality can be maintained. Inlet protection is an essential aspect of responsible construction practices, helping to prevent sediment, debris, and other contaminants from entering stormwater drainage systems.

Call 732-370-0291 or Contact Us for Inlet Protection Solutions for Your New Jersey Construction Site

Also Available

• Chicken wire with stone
• Coir logs
• Filter fabric wrap
• Straw wattles

Additional Resources

• Siltsack Protects Storm Drains and Inlets From Sediment and Pollutants
• This article will help shed some light on Dealing With Foundation Drainage Issues
• Construction Sitework: Everything You Need to Know
• This post covers How Is Straw Wattle Used For Erosion Control?
• When To Use An Erosion Control Silt Sock
• How Can Silt Fences Help Manage Stormwater Runoff?