In washout operations, what environmental compliance issue must be addressed?

• A. Containing washout water and concrete in approved areas and preventing runoff to stormwater systems.
• B. Discharging washout water to the storm drain immediately.
• C. No special requirements.
• D. Using unapproved washout areas.

Answer: (D)

The key idea is preventing stormwater contamination from concrete washout. In washout operations, you must keep all washout water and concrete contained in approved areas so nothing — including slurry, wash water, or solids — can runoff into the stormwater system. This protects water quality and keeps you in regulatory compliance. The issue you must address is avoiding the use of unapproved washout areas; using unapproved locations creates a clear pathway for pollutants to reach storm drains and waterways. Proper practice is to establish and use approved containment areas designed to capture and hold washout materials until they can be disposed of properly. Discharging washout water directly to a storm drain or claiming no special requirements would violate these environmental protections.