P2: Auto Body Shop Wastewater

Wastewater from auto body shops may contain oil, solvents, and detergents. Liquids from sumps are likely to contain concentrated contaminants. Oil/water separators or other types of wastewater pretreatment may be required for your shop wastes. You must contact local and state officials to determine the requirements and restrictions that may apply to your business. See the section on Environmental Compliance for more information on wastewater regulations and permits.

Make certain that no wastewater goes to storm sewers.

• Discharges into the local storm water sewer system go directly to streams, rivers, and lakes
• Wash vehicles where the water goes to the sanitary sewer system

Close all sumps or drains that do not discharge to sanitary sewer system.

• Discharge to sumps or drains that go to groundwater is a violation of the Safe Drinking Water Act

Pre-rinse parts before using hot tank or jet spray washers

• May be able to reuse rinse water

Reuse water as much as possible.

• In vehicle washing operation, collect wash water and rinse water in a holding tank, filter and reuse
• Clean water is only necessary for final rinse

Sweep floors and wipe up oil or solvents drips and spills prior to washing.

• The less foreign materials in wastewater, the easier it is to pre-treat or treat

continue to Auto Body Shop Equipment