The Bureau of Meteorology has predicted a wetter than average Spring. Pipe Management Australia is here and ready to assist with the full range of stormwater maintenance projects now, during the storm season and for post-season maintenance.
The Bureau of Meteorology’s Chance of Exceeding Median Rainfall Chart
The Bureau of Meteorology has reported that the likelihood of La Nina developing this year is now double the normal prospects. This means we can expect above-average rainfall with the potential for flood events.
Prepare for Storms
Now is the perfect time to prepare stormwater networks for the wetter weather forecast in the coming months. Here are some of the ways that Pipe Management Australia can help to prepare for storm season:
Gross Pollutant Trap (GPT) Cleaning
Gross Pollutant Traps or Stormwater Quality Improvement Devices (SQID) play a vital role in keeping our waterways clean from litter, plant matter and other large pollutants. However, when GPTs are full or not maintained, pollutants can overflow during rainfall events. Cleaning out GPTs before the wetter weather arrives can reduce the risk of flooding and help to ensure these assets keep our rivers clean.
A basket is lifted from a CleansAll GPT ready for cleaning.
Stormwater Drain Maintenance
Like GPT’s, stormwater drains can become blocked with silt, debris and even tree roots, which can prevent them from draining water in heavy rainfall events. To prevent flooding, drain lines can be cleaned with Combo Jetter Vacuum Units.
PMA operators conduct stormwater drain cleaning at night.
Additionally, root cutting or robotics may be required to remove roots blocking the drain and patching to repair any breaks in the pipe. Broken pipes left unrepaired can lead to sinkholes and other issues during heavy rainfall events. Undertaking maintenance in preparation for storm season can ensure stormwater drains are running at optimal hydraulic capacity.
Culvert Cleaning
Culverts play a vital role in preventing water from impacting roads and railway lines during heavy rainfall events. Culverts can become filled with silt, mud and even large rocks and boulders. The dryer months provide optimal conditions for conducting inspections to assess whether culverts need to be cleaned. PMA’s Combo Jetter Units carry a variety of jetter nozzles and sleds for cleaning culverts.
We also operate Australia’s only MicroTraxx remote controlled culvert cleaning units, ideal for removing silt, debris and large rocks.
PMA’s MicroTraxx Remote Controlled Culvert Cleaner
Barrier Dams
Barrier Dams or Cofferdams can be used for a variety of projects in waterways or tidal reaches to create a dry work zone. Installing barrier dams prior to the storm season when water levels are lower, and when there is less likelihood of rainy days, can reduce the need for pumping and drastically reduce project costs.
A PMA Barrier Dam creates a dry work zone for culvert cleaning
Over nearly two decades, PMA has refined the art of drain cleaning and stormwater maintenance. PMA maintains a fleet of over 90 specialty vehicles with capabilities across CCTV, root cutting and pipe repairs. Working with local councils, utilities, construction and infrastructure projects, PMA have developed core competencies across the breadth of stormwater maintenance services.
If you need assistance preparing for the wetter weather, give PMA a call on 1800 455 660. We will be happy to assist.
