Earth control measures (ECM) are implemented in construction sites to prevent silt from polluting our waterways.

Construction activities inevitably involve land clearance, which leads to generation of bare surfaces i.e. exposure of soil to erosion. When it rains, silt washes down from the exposed earth surfaces.

Before starting any construction work, contractors are required to obtain the Clearance Certificate to commence works from Public Utilities Board (PUB) by submitting the ECM Plan, designed and endorsed by the Qualified Erosion Control Professional (QECP).

Contractors are then required to install the ECM on site according to the ECM Plan.

An effective ECM requires erosion control and sediment control with the primary focus on the earlier.

Reference: https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltaweb/en/industry-matters/safety-and-health-and-environment/construction-safety-and-environment/environmental-protection/earth-control-measures.html