Confined Space Entry

Stormwater Management

CMS provides safe, professional confined space entry for stormwater pipes, vaults, and underground drainage structures. Our trained technicians perform inspections, cleaning, and maintenance in compliance with OSHA and local safety regulations. Confined space entry allows for detailed assessment of stormwater infrastructure, detecting blockages, structural defects, and sediment accumulation before they cause system failure. From municipal storm sewers to commercial and HOA drainage systems, our services ensure safe, effective stormwater management and regulatory compliance.

OSHA Certified Confined Space Entry

Request a Consultation

CMS Confined Space Entry Services & Activities

Inspections & Maintenance:
Perform internal assessments of stormwater pipes, vaults, and manholes to ensure proper flow, detect blockages, and maintain infrastructure functionality.

Cleaning & Desilting:
Remove debris, sediment, and obstructions from underground stormwater systems to optimize hydraulic performance and prevent flooding.

Structural Repairs:
Rehabilitate stormwater infrastructure, including pipe lining, joint repair, and vault restoration, to restore system integrity and compliance.

Emergency Response:
Standby confined space rescue services address immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) situations within stormwater pipes and vaults.

Confined space entry for maintenance in stormwater pipe with high sediment buildup

Emergency confined space entry to repair damaged storm drain structure

CMS Provides Safety & Regulatory Compliance (OSHA)

Permit-Required Entries:
Follow strict OSHA permit-required entry standards with documented programs, permits, and calibrated safety equipment for all confined stormwater spaces.

Atmospheric Testing & Monitoring:
Continuously monitor oxygen, toxic gases, and flammable vapors in stormwater vaults and pipes to ensure worker safety.

Ventilation & Safety Equipment:
Use forced air ventilation, PPE, and retrieval systems—including harnesses and tripods—for safe stormwater confined space work.

Trained Personnel:
Certified entry supervisors, attendants, and entrants perform stormwater confined space operations to minimize risk and maintain compliance.

Underground SCM Maintenance, Repairs, and Inspections

Stormwater Maintenance – Underground SCM Devices

Routine maintenance of underground stormwater control measures (SCMs) such as vaults, pipes, and chambers ensures these systems continue to manage runoff and treat water effectively. Services include sediment removal, debris clearing, and monitoring for blockages to maintain proper hydraulic performance. CMS provides scheduled maintenance programs throughout North Carolina to protect system functionality and prevent costly failures.

Compliance, Longevity & Sustainability:
Regular maintenance helps property owners meet NC DEQ and local stormwater permit requirements by keeping systems fully operational. Preventing sediment buildup and minor damage extends the service life of underground SCMs. Well-maintained systems improve water quality, manage runoff efficiently, and support long-term environmental sustainability.

Technician performing maintenance on an underground stormwater control measure (SCM) vault, removing sediment and debris.

Underground stormwater detention system providing flow control and treatment at a space-constrained site

Stormwater Repairs – Underground SCM Devices

Underground SCM repairs address structural damage, clogged pipes, damaged vaults, or eroded chambers that compromise system performance. Timely repairs restore full hydraulic capacity and ensure water quality treatment goals are met. CMS offers targeted repair solutions to return underground systems to optimal operation while minimizing disruption to surrounding properties.

Compliance, Longevity & Sustainability:
Prompt repairs ensure systems remain compliant with regulatory requirements and avoid penalties. Restoring structural integrity protects the long-term durability of the underground infrastructure. Efficient repairs reduce material waste, extend asset life, and maintain sustainable stormwater management practices.

Stormwater Inspection – Underground SCM Devices

Professional inspections of underground SCMs include structural evaluations, sediment and debris assessments, and hydraulic performance checks. Regular inspections identify developing issues such as clogs, damage, or decreased flow before they escalate into major problems. CMS provides detailed inspection reporting to support maintenance planning and regulatory documentation requirements.

Compliance, Longevity & Sustainability:
Routine inspections demonstrate due diligence and help property owners comply with NC DEQ and local stormwater regulations. Early detection of deficiencies reduces long-term repair costs and maximizes the lifespan of underground assets. Properly inspected systems ensure continued pollutant removal, efficient runoff management, and environmentally responsible operations.