United States Postal Service® (USPS®) sites that store large quantities of de-icing and anti-skid products in areas prone to snow and sleet may be subject to regulation by federal law. State and local environmental laws impose mandatory chemical reporting, restrictions on quantities stored, or permitting and requirements for on-site storage areas.
De-icing and anti-skid products include:
n Sodium chloride (“rock salt”),
n Calcium chloride,
n Magnesium chloride,
n Calcium magnesium acetate, and
n Sand.
Proper storage of de-icing and anti-skid products ensure usability of products, eliminates potential loss of product, and reduces the possibility of environmental contamination with salt or chemical run-off.
Regardless of location, sites that order or store de-icing and anti-skid products must:
n Store de-icing and anti-skid products on non-porous concrete or asphalt. If possible, frame the storage area on three sides to form a bin. Do not store bulk quantities directly on soil or near wells, reservoirs, or groundwater supplies.
n Cover de-icing and anti-skid product piles stored on–site (e.g., store materials under a shelter like an awning, shed, or tarp).
n Never purchase or store quantities more than 10,000 pounds at one site, unless necessary. Sites that store 10,000 pounds or more of de-icing and anti-skid products (including sand) are subject to USPS Tier II reporting (blue.usps.gov/sustainability/environmental/_pdf/waste/ecb-tier2.pdf.)
Depending on location, more requirements may apply to your site. For more information, use the following guidance:
n See the De-icing and Anti-Skid Product Storage Environmental Compliance Bulletin at blue.usps.gov/sustainability/environmental/_pdf/ecb-deicing-product-storage.pdf.
n Consult your designated USPS Environmental Specialist at blue.usps.gov/sustainability/regional-environmental-compliance-all.htm.
— Environmental Affairs and Corporate Sustainability,
Corporate Affairs, 12-26-24
