Storm Water Testing

Global Port Operator

Use Case: Storm Water Testing

Our customer is a global port and terminal operations leader that provides cargo support and integrated inland services. Their facilities load, unload and facilitate the transport of hundreds of thousands of containers arriving on maritime trade vessels.


One of their North American locations had struggled with compliance with legally mandated levels of chemical constituents due to increased shipping demand. This non-compliance posed significant risks, including potential fines, environmental damage, and negative public perception. The port's management recognized the need for a robust solution to monitor and manage stormwater quality effectively.

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Goal

To detect and monitor the concentration of organic, inorganic, and biologically active compounds in stormwater. This goal involves identifying and quantifying various pollutants, including hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and biological contaminants, to ensure that stormwater runoff meets regulatory standards and does not threaten the environment or public health.

Our Challenge

Implementing and engaging stormwater testing protocols with port employees. Ensuring that the staff understands and adheres to the new protocols can be difficult, particularly in a busy operational environment where time and resources are often stretched.

Our Insight

The operation of shipping ports necessitates stringent monitoring of stormwater runoff, which contains chemical constituents produced from equipment operation. This includes pollutants from machinery, vehicles, and cargo handling equipment that can enter stormwater systems during rainfall, leading to potential environmental hazards if not properly managed.

Our Solution Implementation

Two red and yellow cranes are against a blue sky.
An aerial view of a large container ship docked at a port.

Consultation and Site Identification: With consultation from Sure-BioChem (SBL) analysts, the customer was able to identify stormwater testing sites with prior events of high chemical constituents. This step was crucial in targeting areas with higher contamination levels, ensuring that testing efforts were focused and efficient.


Establishment of Testing Parameters and Protocols: Testing parameters and protocols were established and conducted monthly on days with sufficient rain accumulation. These protocols included:

  • Sampling procedures to ensure consistent collection of stormwater samples.
  • Laboratory analysis methods to accurately detect and quantify contaminants.
  • Data recording and reporting standards to maintain compliance and track improvements over time.

This systematic approach ensured that the testing was consistent and reflective of actual conditions, allowing for more accurate monitoring and results.


Employee Engagement and Training: The education, consultation, and monitoring services offered by SBL strengthened employees' adherence to stormwater regulations. By involving the employees directly in the testing process and providing thorough training, the port operator ensured that their staff were well-versed in the new protocols and understood the importance of compliance. Training sessions covered:

  • The significance of stormwater monitoring and its environmental impact.
  • Detailed instructions on the testing procedures and protocols.
  • Best practices for preventing contamination and ensuring accurate results.

Our Results

An aerial view of a warehouse filled with lots of shipping containers.
An aerial view of a large ship in the middle of a river.

Reduction in Chemical Contaminants: Implementing these testing parameters and protocols significantly reduced the levels of chemical contaminants in stormwater runoff. This achievement directly resulted from the precise and consistent testing methods introduced by SBL. The port operator saw a marked improvement in water quality, demonstrating the effectiveness of the new protocols.


Compliance with Environmental Standards: The port operator, driven by a strong commitment to environmental responsibility, saw stricter adherence to state and local environmental standards. By maintaining compliance, the operator not only avoided potential fines and legal issues but also enhanced their reputation for environmental stewardship. Regular reporting and transparent communication with regulatory bodies further solidified their compliance status, a testament to their dedication.


Cost and Time Efficiency: The comprehensive services offered by SBL improved compliance and saved the port operator time and money. By identifying problem areas early and implementing effective testing protocols, the operator reduced the need for costly remediation efforts. Additionally, efficient testing processes minimized downtime and allowed for seamless integration into the port’s daily operations.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Sure-BioChem and the global port operator demonstrates the critical role of expert consultation and systematic testing in managing environmental compliance. Through targeted site identification, robust testing protocols, and employee engagement, the port operator achieved a notable reduction in stormwater contaminants and ensured adherence to environmental regulations, ultimately saving time and resources.


This case study exemplifies the effectiveness of Sure-BioChem's solutions in real-world applications, highlighting their capability to address complex environmental challenges. The success of this project underscores the importance of continuous monitoring, employee training, and expert guidance in maintaining environmental standards and protecting public health.

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