Construction
Patterns and Recommendations
18.
On Site
– Protecting the site and crew
The practices that the construction crew follows at the site can have a
significant impact on the project’s sustainability.
Care taken to protect existing site vegetation helps to maintain its habitat,
shading, and erosion control values. Erosion
from construction sites has been recognized as a source of water pollution and is
specifically regulated in some states. Meanwhile,
avoiding the use of toxic building materials when possible helps make the site healthier
for both workers and future occupants. When
toxic materials must be used, they should be properly handled, applied, and disposed of,
so that the site is not contaminated and the health of workers, future occupants, and the
environment is promoted.
Recommendations:
§
Protect existing site vegetation, including the dripline zone of mature
trees.
§
Prevent job-site erosion and runoff by reducing site disturbance, using
erosion control materials, and trapping sediment.
§
Minimize soil compaction by restricting access and operation of heavy
equipment.
§
Choose
less-toxic materials and avoid site contamination with proper handling and
disposal.
§
Enforce worker safety regulations and use proper materials application
procedures.
Reference:
§
Preserving
Trees During Construction
§
Protecting Trees
from Construction Damage: A Homeowner's Guide
§
National Arbor Day Foundation “Building With Trees” Program
§
Pollution
Prevention for Residential Construction: A Guide for Residential
Construction Contractors and Designers
§
Santa Monica Green Building Design & Construction Guidelines
Applied in Case Studies:
§ O’Brien – Cunningham Home
§ Casas de Don Juan
Additional Examples:
§ Fireweed
Court
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