Written by the Pro-Enviro Team
Serving Auburn, Maple Valley, Spokane and all of Washington State
Pro-Enviro by FleetEasy specializes in professional spill response and spill recovery throughout Washington State. Our team is highly trained in fleet spill response, storm drain cleanup, and emergency spill recovery. When Pro-Enviro gets the call, we ensure that roadway accidents and vehicle leaks are handled safely, efficiently, and in compliance with state and federal law.
Recently, our operators were dispatched to a challenging roadway spill cleanup on Boylston Avenue in Seattle, WA, that required specialized storm drain cleaning. Here’s how it unfolded.
Navigating Tight Roads to Reach the Spill
When Pro-Enviro operators get the call about an oil or fuel spill, the clock is ticking. Quick response is critical to contain contamination before it spreads to waterways or sensitive areas. On this call, one of our operators reported:
“On the way to the scene, I had to go extremely slow due to the roads being only as wide as my truck and only having a few inches to spare on both sides at some points. Once at the scene, I assessed the situation, informed dispatch of the spill, and while they were coming up with a game plan, I began unloading.”
Despite the challenges of reaching the site, the operator began using absorbent pads and a grease sweep to contain the spill before it could spread. Cones were set up to secure the area and ensure public safety until the full team and equipment arrived.
Spill Recovery Plan: Containing and Cleaning
Once additional equipment arrived, including the Bobcat and vac trailer, the team was able to transition from containment to full oil and fuel spill recovery. The spill had spread across the roadway, and we saw that the spill was reaching nearby storm drains.
City of Seattle Environmental Compliance Inspector arrived on-site, reviewed the Pro-Enviro plan, and approved it. After inspection, one storm drain was identified as needing direct cleanup.
The crew collected and bagged all used absorbent pads and grease sweep, then applied a neutralizing TC solution across the surface. The Bobcat distributed the solution evenly, while the vac trailer and sweeper worked in tandem to capture any runoff and clean the street.
Storm Drain Cleanup and Waste Disposal
Storm drains are one of the most sensitive points in any spill recovery. If contamination reaches stormwater systems, it can flow directly into creeks, rivers, or Puget Sound. If this happens, it can cause long-term environmental harm.
To prevent this, the Pro-Enviro team removed the storm drain grate, pressure-washed the surrounding pavement, and vacuumed out all contaminated liquid and debris with the vac trailer. Once complete, the storm drain was sealed, inspected, and confirmed clean.
Back at the yard, all used equipment was washed, disinfected, and restored for the next call. Contaminated material collected in the vac trailer was safely transported to a licensed disposal facility under proper waste manifest protocols.
Professional Spill Response is Vital
Even small vehicle leaks or oil spills can have major environmental and financial consequences. In Washington State, property owners and fleet operators are legally and financially responsible for cleaning up spills of fuel, oil, and other hazardous materials, for spills large and small.
Hiring a trained and certified spill recovery contractor like Pro-Enviro ensures:
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- Containment and cleanup happen quickly before spills spread.
- Storm drains and waterways are fully protected.
- All work complies with Washington State Department of Ecology spill requirements.
- Waste is properly transported and disposed of at licensed facilities.
Trust Pro-Enviro for Compliant Fleet Spill Response
Thanks to fast action, trained expertise, and specialized equipment, the contaminated site was fully restored. The storm drain was cleaned, the roadway was safe, and hazardous waste was properly disposed of. Team Pro-Enviro is ready 24/7 to respond to your emergency spill recovery needs.
Learn more about our storm drain recovery services.
Read more about our full-service spill recovery across Washington State.
