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 environmental regulations.
De-icing and anti-skid products include the following:
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 ensures usability of products, eliminates potential loss of product, and reduces the possibility of environmental contamination with salt or chemical run-off.
All postal 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 onsite (e.g., store materials under a shelter like an awning, shed, or tarp).
n Never purchase or store quantities of 10,000 or more 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 Tier II chemical reporting (see blue.usps.gov/sustainability/environmental/_pdf/waste/ecb-tier2.pdf).
Depending on location, more requirements, including permitting, may apply to your site. For more information about de-icing materials storage, use the following guidance:
n See the De-Icing and Anti-Skid Product Storage Environmental Compliance Bulletin/Standard Work Instruction 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,12-25-25
