Prevent Environmental Damage With Soil Stabilisers in Australia

The Australian government is rightly concerned about the amount of soil run-off and loss which is being suffered during construction and mining work. Many streams and rivers are now suffering the problems of soil movement into waterways, causing pollution and silting. As these problems have become increasingly widespread, the government has placed some of the responsibility for soil loss upon contractors and site managers, and this means that these teams have to take steps to reduce the amount of soil lost from their work areas. There are some ways in which this can be done successfully. 

How does soil management prevent environmental damage?

The purpose of soil and sediment control and soil erosion solutions is to prevent the movement of mixed granules, including sand, cement, soil and dust, from moving into nearby waterways. Soil control helps to prevent pollution from reaching waterways, which can kill wildlife and block stormwater pipes, both of which have serious consequences for nearby habitats. The purpose of sediment control is to move water without sediment away from work areas, reduce site disturbance and stabilise soil surfaces, and avoid the movement of dust from material piles. All of these steps are designed to help prevent water damage, and consequent problems with the floodplains and with flora and fauna of the area. 

Beginning sediment control

The start of soil management occurs at the very beginning of any site. The soil control methods are implemented before any excavation begins, so that there is limited movement of soil from the beginning of the dig. The final stormwater pipes should be fitted as early as possible, and catch drains and water flow systems should be set in place before that. Sediment catchment areas should be put into place early on, and textiles and other drainage preventing products should be applied to steep sides.  Where soil is loose, or where materials are stored, it will be necessary to use a sediment control product or chemical mixture in order to dampen the area and prevent the movement of dust into ditches and drainage channels. Erosion control mats should be used throughout the site, and will prevent sediment from reaching uncontaminated water. Dams and flow management tools will also move water away from the most vulnerable parts of the site, preventing contamination and also stopping soil from being carried away by the stream or river.