Problem: Two of the nation’s largest home building firms expressed frustration about a common site development National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System challenge. Street sweepers keeping development roads clear of debris from empty lots during construction tend to tear up traditional over-grate filters made of non-woven geotextiles. Traditional under-grate options require special tooling or multiple personnel to lift heavy grate covers to affix and maintain both over and under-grate options.  

Solution: GEI Works developed a patented over-grate option that allows customers to affix the grate cover to the grate without special tooling, or having to lift the grate. Specialized fasteners provide both above and below-the-grate access without having to lift the grate itself. The over-grate filters are made with street-sweeper friendly materials that significantly reduce wear on the filter itself, extend use life and reduce labor costs to maintain. Additionally, options are available with larger aperture windows to allow more water flow and visibility over the grate, to reduce ponding.

Result: Large new-development Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans utilizing the over-grate filters remained compliant and reduced maintenance costs. Investing in a longer-term over-grate filter despite initial cost difference to widely used typical filters lowered project costs overall through longer duration between replacements, minimal installation time, no special tooling requirements and easy maintenance. 772-646-0597; www.erosionpollution.com