Sediment and Erosion Control

Throughout building and construction activities it is important to adopt best practice soil and water management measures onsite to protect our natural environment. Exposed soils are easily washed away during rainfall events as sediment, which is a major source of pollution to local waterways. Large amounts of sediment in waterways are harmful to aquatic organisms (i.e. fish, plants), and can silt up streams and block stormwater pipes leading to increased flooding. Sediment also often transports other pollutants such as oils, heavy metals and hydrocarbons from building and construction sites into local waterways.

Adopting best practice soil and water management measures will also help to:

  • improve wet weather working conditions onsite,
  • reduce stockpile losses,
  • reduce clean up costs; and
  • ensure greater compliance with appropriate regulations including state environmental laws, thereby reducing the risk of fines and other penalties.

The Fact Sheets below outline the Tasmanian guidelines for best practice soil and water management on building and construction sites. Follow these guidelines to minimise erosion, control sediment runoff from your building or construction site, and protect our local waterways.


Fact Sheets: Soil and Water Management on Building and Construction Sites