The United States Postal Service® (USPS®) has established a “Zero Discharge” policy for stormwater to reduce pollution from stormwater and snowmelt, which can release hazardous chemicals and pollutants into the environment; causing harm to rivers, streams, lakes, and coastal waters. Under the policy, employees and suppliers must take specific actions to minimize pollution to protect water quality.
USPS employees and USPS third-party contractors must follow the “Zero Discharge” policy for stormwater.
n Do NOT allow vehicle/equipment washing wash water or pollutants (i.e., oil and grease, metals, acids/bases, and other chemicals) to enter stormwater systems (i.e., storm drains, outdoor drains, or other conveyances).
n Do NOT wash vehicles outdoors in an uncovered area when it is raining.
n Wash only official vehicles on USPS property using one of the following acceptable methods:
n Wet wash in interior bays (when washing is performed by USPS employees).
n Wet wash with water recovery in exterior lots (when washing is performed by third-party contractors).
n Dry wash or dry vapor steam cleaning in exterior lots (when washing is performed by third-party contractors, may be performed by USPS employees).
n Use only vehicle wash products that do NOT contain any USPS Targeted Chemicals or exhibit hazardous waste characteristics.
n Establish vehicle washing contracts through the Vehicles Category Management Center (CMC) using the nationally approved statement of work for vehicle washing and monitor vehicle washing contracts and activities for compliance.
To establish a vehicle washing contract for your location, contact Kelly O’Connor by email at kelly.c.o’connor@usps.gov. For more information, consult your designated Environmental Specialist at (blue.usps.gov/sustainability/regional-environmental-compliance-all.htm) or review the following:
n Vehicle Washing Requirements Environmental Compliance Bulletin at blue.usps.gov/sustainability/environmental/_pdf/ecb-vehiclewashing.pdf.
n The Environmental Affairs website at blue.usps.gov/sustainability.
— Environmental Affairs and Corporate Sustainability,
Corporate Affairs, 7-11-24
