NAT26306-SANDBYPAS-appC.docx

This is based off previous state operations, subject to change based on submitted proposals Sand Bypass Facility Operations and Maintenance Manual Located within Delaware Seashore State Park

DNREC Division of Watershed Stewardship, Shoreline and Waterway Management Section Operated from Labor Day to Memorial Day Annually Emergency Contact Numbers Program Manager: Kathleen Bergin 302-272-8308 Lewes Facility 302-855-7290 Dover Office 302-739-9921

Contents

Project Overview

1. Overview

a. The Indian River Inlet Sand Bypass Plant, operated by DNREC’s Shoreline and Waterway Management Section, was established under a long-term agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to restore the natural littoral drift disrupted by jetties built in 1939. Since 1989, the plant has moved over 2.1 million cubic yards of sand, offering Delaware the lowest unit cost of sand placement in the past decade.

2. Facility Improvements and Issues

a. A major facility upgrade was completed in 2016–2017, adding a workshop, office, storage, and restrooms.

b. Construction oversight by USACE resulted in unresolved warranty issues, which DNREC is now addressing at its own cost.

c. Ongoing facility issues include heater and door installations, and a rear window leak. A future goal is to build a heavy equipment shed to reduce long-term maintenance costs.

d. A power conversion project, initiated in 2022, is transitioning the facility from diesel to electric motors, and includes HVAC and tank removals.

3. Operational History & Goals

a. Operational disruptions began in 2015 due to sand shortages and facility construction.

b. Limited pumping resumed in 2017–2018 but was marred by mechanical failures and a pump coupler breakdown.

c. The plant has been offline since 2021 due to the electric conversion process.

d. A coastal engineering study attributed sediment flow disruption to storms in 2015–2016; by 2018, sand supply patterns began to normalize.

Permitting and Environmental Compliance List of required permits DNREC has on file.

· LCA with USACE

· Radiation Permit

· Permit conditions summary (e.g., allowable working hours, equipment restrictions)

· Plant has been allowed to operate from Labor Day to Memorial Day

· Public Notice is required for all work on the beach

· Pre-construction meeting required before mobilization

· Marine/tidal restrictions

· Extreme tides and storm surge require removal of all equipment from the dune line and berm and removal of intake pipe due to potential storm damage.

· Wildlife or habitat considerations- all work should be made to ensure no impact to wildlife is occurring including protection of turtle nesting sites, bird breeding, etc.

· Erosion and turbidity control measures Daily Start up Procedure A. Check weather conditions

a. Wind Speed and direction (wind speeds above 30MPH are unsafe for crane operation)

b. High and low tides (may delay starting time approximately 2 hours if high tide mark is up to crane)

c. Monitor various weather reports for long range forecast (NOAA, local radio, weather channel) B. Daily Maintenance Checks

a. Move crane to pumping area

b. Prime supply pump using air jet to pull water from inlet

c. Visually check discharge line on Northside

d. Hoo up and deploy jet pump to pumping area

e. Plant operator and crane operator establish radio communication

f. Open supply pump water valve increasing pressure to operating pressure (150 psi normal operating pressure); inform crane operator that supply water is enroute.

g. Increase slurry pump pressure to operating pressure approximately 70 psi

h. Plant operator checks all gauges and measuring devices for proper readings

i. Inform crane operator to start sending material

j. Plant operator and crane operator verify slurry density (percent by weight) meter reading when plant is running under normal conditions.

C. Normal Operating Procedure

a. Plant Operator

i. Monitor gauges maintaining proper pressures and vacuum for maximum plant output

ii. Monitor discharge pipe on north side for proper filling

iii. Inform crane operator about production output

b. Assistant Plant Operator

i. Monitor engine pressure and temperature

ii. Adjust pump packing

iii. Assist crane operator as needed

iv. Operate heavy equipment as needed

c. Crane Operator

i. Monitor production meter adjusting jet pump to proper depth for maximum production

ii. Inform plant operator about pumping area

iii. Remove chokes (debris) from jet pump D. Plant shutdown for equipment adjustment

a. Adding shore pipe on discharge

i. Plant operator clears slurry line and secures pumping

ii. Plant operator and assistant load tools and equipment to add pipe

iii. Crane operator can assist in removal of shore pipe and adding sections of HDPE pipe once jet pump is secured.

iv. Crane operator returns early and starts plant and places in a standby by mode until operators are ready to continue.

v. Maximum discharge length is 2,300 ft E. Adding or removing water supply and slurry pipe on southside

a. Plant operator clears slurry line and secures pumping

b. Assistant opens slurry line drain valve

c. Disassemble pipes and install or remove two sections using heavy equipment.

d. Resume pumping F. Cleaning supply pump inlet suction strainer

a. Secure pumping operations when vacuum reaches 22”or discharge pressure starts to drop

b. Crane operator secures jet pump and moves crane to suction strainer.

c. Remove suction strainer from inlet and clean with pressure washer.

d. Place suction strainer in inlet and secure holding cables.

e. Return crane to pumping area and deploy jet pump

f. Plant operator and assistant test supply pump

g. Return to normal plant operations.

Normal Plant Shutdown Procedure A. Weekday shutdown

a. Plant operator clears slurry line and ceases pumping.

b. Assistant operator secures pump engines and related equipment

c. Crane operator secures jet pump and returns crane to base of dune, secures crane.

B. Weekend shutdown

a. Plant operator clears slurry line and ceases pumping

b. Assistant operator secures pump engines and related equipment

c. Crane operator secures jet pump and returns crane to yard plant operator performs maintenance and upkeep on plant equipment.

d. Crane operator performs routine maintenance and upkeep on crane C. Advance storm warning procedure

a. Remove Jet pump and pipe assemble and return to yard.

b. Secure crane and move to southern area of yard placing boom in forecasted wind direction

c. Remove discharge pipe on Northside and secure under bridge.

d. Push secondary dunes in front of pumping area with dozer.

End of pumping season shutdown and maintenance A. Remove pipe and jet from pumping area

a. Inspect pipe and repair or replace as necessary

b. Disassemble and inspect Jet pump

c. Disassemble rubber hoses and inspect; cover hose with canvas cloth

d. Order replacement parts requiring long lead time for jet pump and hoses B. Disassemble pumps and inspect, repair or replace

a. Disassemble slurry pump and discharge elbow and inspect

b. Disassemble water supply pump and inspect

c. Order long lead time replacement parts Physical Plant The physical plant shall be supplied with heat, light, electric, telephone, hot and cold running potable water, and restroom facilities. The physical plant shall also include an office that is sufficiently insulated from sound and vibration when bypass is operating.

Due to the corrosive marine environment, all equipment shall be stored inside, to the maximum extent possible/practical, and not outside or on the beach.

Monitoring At least one complete survey of profiles shall be made prior to the storm season. Post-storm surveys shall also be made as determined necessary after a severe storm event. The dry beach width above the normal high tide shall be measured periodically to determine seasonal changes and storm induced sand deficiencies. Conditions such as beach scarps, steepening of the beach face, or the presence of runnels or beach cusps shall be noted and recorded at each profile during the above surveys.

From the survey data, periodic reports shall be produced to analyze the effectiveness of the sand bypass operation with respect to quantity pumped, season of year, placement of material on the beach, etc.

Facilities Maintenance

1. General Building Maintenance

a. Inspect and clean entry ways

b. Check building exterior

c. Check roof condition

2. HVAC

a. Inspect HVAC units

b. Check ductwork in pumproom

i. Inspect for leaks, blockages, or other damages

ii. Clean as necessary

c. Inspect Heating and cooling systems

i. Ensure proper air circulation throughout the building

3. Electrical systems

a. Inspect Electrical Panels

b. Teste emergency lighting and exit signs

4. Inspect wiring and outlets

a. Check for exposed wires or damaged outlets

5. Plumbing and Water Systems

a. Check pipes and plumbing fixtures

i. Inspect for leaks, corrosion or water stains

ii. Drains in building do not lead to a containment unit.

b. Check water heater

c. Inspect sump pumps and ensure working correctly (pump room only)

6. Fire safety and emergency systems

a. Inspect fire extinguishers

b. Test emergency evacuation plan and flood management plan

7. Flooring and Carpeting

a. Inspect floors for damage

b. Check for safety hazards

8. Windows and Doors

a. Check for cracks, leaks or condensation

9. Grounds Maintenance

a. Maintain fence and landscaping

b. Check outdoor lighting

10. Pest Control

a. Inspect for signs of pest activity

b. DNREC has scheduled pest control treatments at this location.

Emergency Management Plan A fire management plan for the Sand Bypass workplace is crucial to ensure the safety of employees, prevent fire hazards, and comply with safety regulations. This plan should outline the procedures, responsibilities, and safety measures to be followed before, during, and after a fire emergency.

Fire Management Plan

1. Introduction The fire management plan outlines the procedures for preventing, detecting, and responding to fire-related emergencies within the workplace. The goal is to protect human life, minimize property damage, and ensure business continuity. This plan applies to all staff, contractors, and visitors.

2. Objectives

· To minimize the risk of fire through proactive fire prevention strategies.

· To ensure employees are well-trained in fire safety procedures.

· To outline a clear, structured response to fire emergencies.

· To ensure the workplace is equipped with the necessary firefighting and safety equipment.

3. Fire Prevention Measures

3.1 Fire Risk Assessment

· Identify Fire Hazards: workplaces may contain flammable materials (oils, solvents, lubricants), electrical equipment, and welding tools that pose fire risks.

· Acetylene torches- Bulk tanks: Oxygen, Argon and Acetylene

· Propane tanks on South side for Furnace: 250lbs ea x 3

· Electrical Room – amperage?

· Diesel Tank in pump room

· Stick Welding materials in the supply room

· Shop room- special heater for fire hazard.

· Fuel in supply room

· Evaluate Risks: Assess the likelihood and potential impact of fire incidents.

· Control Measures: Implement engineering controls, administrative controls, and work practice controls to reduce the risks.

· Fire extinguishers in each room A,B, and C

3.2 Workplace Safety Practices

· Safe Storage of Flammable Materials: Store flammable liquids, gases, and chemicals in properly labeled, approved containers in designated areas with proper ventilation.

· Electrical Safety: Ensure electrical wiring, machinery, and equipment are regularly inspected and maintained to prevent faults or overheating.

· Hot Work Permits: Implement a permit system for activities that involve open flames, sparks, or heat, such as welding, cutting, or grinding.

· Housekeeping: Keep the workplace clean and free of unnecessary combustible materials, including paper, rags, and debris.

· Proper Equipment Maintenance: Regularly inspect machinery and equipment for wear and tear, and repair or replace faulty components to avoid overheating or electrical failures.

3.3 Fire Protection Equipment

· Fire Extinguishers: Place appropriate fire extinguishers (ABC, CO2, Class K for grease fires) in easily accessible locations, especially near high-risk areas such as welding stations and storage areas for flammable materials.

· Fire Blankets: Provide fire blankets in areas where small fires, particularly from flammable liquids or oils, may occur.

· Fire Hose Reels and Hydrants: Ensure fire hoses are easily accessible and properly maintained.

· 2” connection on exterior not for fire trucks

· Smoke Detectors and Alarms: Install smoke detectors and alarms in key areas.

4. Emergency Response Procedures

4.1 Fire Detection and Alarm

· Smoke and Heat Detection: Ensure that the building is equipped with smoke detectors in high-risk areas. Maintain and test alarms regularly.

· Fire Alarm Activation: In case of fire, the alarm should be activated immediately. All employees must be familiar with the alarm sound and know the emergency procedures.

· Meeting site outside fence in 2 DNREC spaces.

4.2 Evacuation Procedures

· Evacuation Plan: Display clear evacuation routes and exit signs in all areas. Ensure paths are free from obstacles and well-lit.

· Assembly Points: Designate safe, clearly marked assembly points away from the building where employees can gather.

· Evacuation Drills: Conduct fire drills at least once a year to ensure all employees know how to evacuate quickly and safely.

· Special Considerations: Make accommodations for employees with disabilities or special needs during evacuation.

4.3 Firefighting and Containment

· Initial Response: If a fire is detected and small enough to be contained, employees should use the appropriate fire extinguisher to suppress the fire.

· HVAC room

· Main pump room

· Shop area

· Office

· Firefighting Equipment Use: Ensure that employees are trained to operate fire extinguishers and other firefighting equipment correctly.

· Contain the Fire: If the fire is uncontrollable, the area should be evacuated, and emergency services should be contacted immediately.

4.4 Emergency Services

· Emergency Contact Numbers: Ensure that employees know how to contact local fire services and emergency responders. Display these numbers prominently in common areas.

· On-Site Fire Warden: Appoint designated fire wardens who are responsible for assisting with evacuation and guiding employees to safety.

5. Fire Safety Training

5.1 Employee Training

· Induction Training: Provide all new employees with fire safety training as part of their induction.

· Ongoing Fire Safety Training: Conduct regular fire safety training sessions, including fire extinguisher use, evacuation procedures, and emergency response protocols.

· Hot Work Training: Train employees involved in hot work (e.g., welding, grinding) in fire safety procedures, including the use of fire watches and hot work permits.

5.2 Fire Drills

· Conduct fire drills regularly to ensure that all employees know their roles during an emergency, including the evacuation procedures and where the emergency assembly points are located.

6. Fire Safety Equipment Maintenance

· Inspection and Maintenance: Regularly inspect all fire safety equipment, including fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, smoke alarms, and emergency lighting.

· Approved Vendor Alarm & Communications Systems Group - 20913 Coastal Highway Rehoboth Beach - Phone 302-226-3335

· Log and Record Keeping: Maintain a log of inspections, maintenance, and any repairs or replacements done to fire safety equipment.

· Replace Expired Equipment: Ensure that any expired fire extinguishers or faulty equipment is replaced immediately.

7. Post-Fire Procedures

7.1 Incident Reporting

· Fire Incident Report: Document the details of any fire incident, including the cause (if known), the response, and any damage. This should be done as soon as possible after the event.

· Investigation: Conduct an investigation into the cause of the fire and whether safety procedures were followed. Identify any areas of improvement.

7.2 Review and Improvement

· Post-Incident Review: After a fire incident, review the response and identify any weaknesses or gaps in the fire management plan.

· Plan Updates: Based on lessons learned from incidents or fire drills, update the fire management plan, training programs, and safety measures to improve fire safety.

Flood Management Plan

1. Introduction The goal of this flood management plan is to protect people, property, and operations in the event of flooding. The plan outlines measures for flood prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery. It applies to all employees, contractors, and visitors in the workplace.

2. Flood Risk Assessment Understanding the potential flood risks for the facility is crucial for effective management. A risk assessment should include the following:

· Flood History: Investigate the history of flooding in the area to identify flood-prone zones.

· Weather and Climate Patterns: Consider local weather patterns, rainfall, and other environmental factors that may increase the likelihood of flooding.

· Facility Location: Facility is located next to a highly tidal inlet.

· Vulnerability of Infrastructure: Identify vulnerable areas within the facility such as electrical systems, storage of critical documents or chemicals, and machinery.

· HVAC systems- room is raised and has significant knee walls to prevent flood damage.

· Flood gates- located in the storeroom

3. Flood Prevention and Mitigation Measures

3.1 Site and Building Design

· Elevated Structures: Elevate critical infrastructure (such as electrical panels and machinery) above potential flood levels. Main shop room is currently raised for additional flood protection.

· Flood Barriers: Install flood barriers, berms, or levees around the facility to prevent water ingress.

· Priority barriers in order of importance

· Start inlet out- shop door last door

· Knee wall in main shop 40”

· Windows at 50”

· Inlet bay door protection is 2’’x12’’ pressure treated lumber

· Garage Doors

· Proper Drainage Systems: Ensure adequate drainage around the facility to prevent water buildup, and clean storm drains regularly.

· Sealed Doors and Windows: Install flood-resistant doors and windows or sealing systems that prevent water from entering during heavy rainfall or rising water.

3.2 Water Diversion

· Landscaping and Grading: Use landscaping techniques like berms, swales, or ditches to divert water away from buildings and critical areas.

· Work with staff to ensure there are no focusing points on the landscape that will unintentionally trap water during a flood event

· Roof Gutters and Downspouts: Ensure gutters are clear and downspouts are directed away from building foundations to prevent water accumulation.

3.3 Emergency Flood Protection Equipment

· Flood Barriers: Store flood barriers and other temporary flood defense items on-site to be used in the event of a flood.

· Storage location- main storage area.

· Label which gate belongs to which door- all gates and posts labeled.

· Practice drills to ensure muscle memory

· Sandbags for garage doors

· Pumps and Sump Systems: Install sump pumps and backup systems to remove water if the facility is threatened by rising floodwaters.

4. Flood Preparedness

4.1 Employee Training and Awareness

· Flood Safety Training: Train employees on the actions to take before, during, and after a flood, including evacuation procedures, how to protect equipment, and how to stay safe.

· Flood Emergency Contacts: Ensure all employees have access to emergency contacts, including local authorities, emergency services, and facility-specific contacts.

· Personal Preparedness: Encourage employees to prepare for flooding at home and ensure they know how to respond if they need to evacuate or be safe during a flood event.

4.2 Flood Emergency Plan

Develop a comprehensive flood emergency plan that includes the following:

· Evacuation Routes: Clearly mark and communicate flood evacuation routes. Make sure they are accessible and safe during a flood.

· Assembly Points: Designate safe assembly points for employees away from flood zones.

· Communication Plan: Establish a communication system to alert employees of a flood risk, such as a text alert system or emergency notification app.

· In event of potential flood risk

· Communication from Program Manager to Bypass based staff.

· Condition assessment

· If potential flood after working hours- flex shift to monitor night

· If potential flood event during working hours- engage early action steps.

· Critical Equipment Protection: Ensure critical equipment is raised or protected in case of flooding. Have backup power systems in place (e.g., generators) for important operations.

· If concerned for power outage- contact rental company for large generator.

· Flood Monitoring: Monitor weather forecasts, flood warnings, and local alerts in real time to provide early warnings. – include in weekly reporting.

· Required at National Weather Service prediction of X ft

· SWMS classifies storm events by scale to align response actions:

· Level 1: Minor Coastal Event (wave action greater than 500kJ)

· Localized wave action and erosion.

· Community notifications only.

· Field staff on alert.

· Level 2: Moderate Coastal Storm(wave action greater than 1000kJ but less than 1500kJ)

· Significant erosion and potential back bay flooding.

· Coordination with contractors (e.g., Great Lakes, USACE).

· Site inspections post-storm.

· Field Staff to stage equipment in high ground areas for access.

· Daily weather updates to be given to leadership from Field Ops.

· Level 3: Major Coastal Storm / Hurricane (wave action greater than 1500kJ)

· Widespread coastal impacts.

· Community notifications, regulatory enforcement, and post-storm assessments.

· Coordination with DEMA, USACE, municipalities, and federal partners.

· Consider activating recovery resources and emergency permits.

5. Flood Response Procedures

5.1 Activation of the Flood Plan

· Alerting Employees: As soon as flooding is imminent or predicted, activate the communication system to inform all employees and provide evacuation instructions.

· Immediate Actions: Depending on the severity of the flood, employees should:

· Move to higher floors or designated safe zones.

· Secure sensitive equipment and critical documents.

· Turn off utilities (gas, electricity, water) if it is safe to do so to prevent further damage.

5.2 Evacuation

· Evacuation Routes: Employees should follow designated evacuation routes to safe, predetermined assembly points.

· Assistance for Vulnerable Employees: Provide assistance to employees with disabilities or those who need special care during the evacuation process.

· Communication During Evacuation: Maintain clear communication with employees throughout the evacuation to ensure that everyone is accounted for and safe.

· Contact Lewes Office 302-855-7290 if emergency arises

5.3 Securing Equipment and Materials

· Disconnect Power: Unplug electrical equipment and secure machinery to avoid damage or fire hazards due to water exposure.

· Seal Doors and Windows: If time permits and it is safe to do so, seal doors and windows with sandbags or other flood barriers to minimize water ingress.

5.4 Emergency Services Coordination

· Contact Emergency Services: If the flood causes significant damage or if employees are stranded, contact emergency services immediately for assistance.

· Cooperate with Authorities: Follow any orders or instructions provided by local authorities or emergency responders to ensure the safety of all individuals.

6. Post-Flood Recovery

6.1 Damage Assessment

· Inspect the Facility: After the flood has subsided, conduct a thorough inspection of the facility to assess structural damage, equipment failure, or contamination.

· Use monthly inspection form

· Hazardous Materials: Identify and safely remove any hazardous materials that may have been exposed to floodwaters, including chemicals, oils, or other industrial substances.

· Documentation: Document all damage for insurance claims, government relief, and legal purposes.

6.2 Clean-Up and Restoration

· Water Removal: Use pumps, wet vacuums, or other water removal methods to clear the premises of water.

· Sanitize and Dry: Clean and sanitize the facility to prevent mold growth and bacterial contamination. Dry out all affected areas, including walls, floors, and ceilings.

· Equipment Restoration: Have professionals assess and repair machinery and electrical systems damaged by the flood. Replace any equipment that is irreparably damaged.

6.3 Return to Operations

· Health and Safety Checks: Ensure that the facility is safe for employees to return to work. This includes checking the integrity of the building, air quality, and any ongoing risks.

· Rebuild and Repair: Repair any structural damage to the building, update any temporary flood mitigation measures, and rebuild systems as necessary.

· Post-Flood Review: Evaluate the response to the flood event and revise the flood management plan based on lessons learned to improve preparedness for future incidents.

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