Environmental Responsibility Statement

At Joe Schwierking Inspection, we recognize that our operations in Ketchikan, Alaska take place within one of the world's most pristine natural environments. We understand that the pressure washing and mechanical cleaning services we provide have the potential to impact local ecosystems if not conducted responsibly. That's why environmental stewardship is a core value that guides every aspect of our business operations.

This Environmental Policy outlines our commitment to sustainable practices, compliance with environmental regulations, and our ongoing efforts to minimize our ecological footprint while delivering exceptional cleaning results for our residential, commercial, and marine clients.

Our Promise: To provide high-quality pressure washing services that protect and enhance our clients' properties while safeguarding Alaska's natural resources for future generations.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Solutions

Biodegradable Cleaning Agents

We exclusively use biodegradable, phosphate-free cleaning solutions that break down naturally in the environment without leaving harmful residues. Our cleaning agents are specifically selected to be:

Non-toxic to aquatic life
Free from harsh chemicals like bleach and ammonia
Low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
Effective at lower concentrations to minimize chemical usage

Surface-Appropriate Cleaning Methods

We tailor our cleaning approach to each surface type, using the minimum effective pressure and appropriate cleaning solutions to achieve results without unnecessary environmental impact. This includes:

Soft washing techniques for delicate surfaces
Targeted spot treatments for stains rather than broad chemical application
Mechanical removal of contaminants where possible to reduce chemical use
Pre-treatment methods that enhance effectiveness while reducing overall resource consumption

Specialized Marine-Safe Products

For our marine vessel and dock cleaning services, we use specialized products designed specifically for use in marine environments. These products are:

Compliant with all federal and Alaska state regulations for marine environments
Formulated to minimize impact on marine ecosystems
Effective at removing marine growth and contaminants without harming surrounding waters

Water Conservation Practices

Despite Ketchikan's abundant rainfall, we recognize water as a valuable resource that requires responsible management. Our water conservation practices include:

Advanced Equipment Technology

High-efficiency pressure washing equipment that delivers maximum cleaning power while minimizing water usage
Variable pressure controls that allow us to use only the necessary water pressure for each specific task
Regular equipment maintenance to prevent leaks and ensure optimal performance
Flow restrictors and water-saving nozzles that reduce consumption without compromising cleaning quality

Water Reclamation Systems

For larger commercial projects and areas with sensitive drainage, we employ water reclamation systems that:

Capture and filter wastewater before it enters storm drains or natural waterways
Remove contaminants including oils, heavy metals, and suspended solids
Allow for proper disposal of collected contaminants according to local regulations
Reduce the overall water footprint of our cleaning operations

Rainwater Harvesting

Taking advantage of Ketchikan's abundant rainfall, our facility incorporates rainwater harvesting systems that:

Collect and store rainwater for use in our cleaning operations
Reduce our dependence on municipal water supplies
Provide naturally soft water that often requires fewer cleaning agents

Wastewater Management

Proper wastewater management is critical in our industry, especially in Ketchikan's sensitive coastal environment. Our comprehensive approach includes:

Runoff Prevention and Containment

Use of containment barriers and storm drain protection devices during cleaning operations
Strategic planning of cleaning projects to direct runoff away from sensitive areas
Vacuum recovery systems for projects with significant contaminant concerns
Site assessment before beginning work to identify potential environmental risks

Filtration and Treatment

When working with potentially contaminated surfaces (such as heavily soiled industrial areas or surfaces with lead paint), we implement:

Multi-stage filtration systems to remove contaminants before water discharge
pH neutralization when necessary
Proper disposal of filtered contaminants according to hazardous waste regulations

Compliance with Local Regulations

We strictly adhere to all applicable regulations regarding wastewater management in Ketchikan and Alaska, including:

Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) requirements
Clean Water Act provisions
Local municipal ordinances regarding storm water management
Special considerations for work performed near salmon streams and marine habitats

Energy Efficiency Measures

We strive to minimize our carbon footprint through energy-efficient operations:

Equipment Selection and Maintenance

Investment in fuel-efficient pressure washing equipment
Regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and fuel economy
Use of electric equipment when appropriate to reduce emissions
Proper sizing of equipment to job requirements to avoid wasted energy

Operational Efficiency

Strategic scheduling of jobs to minimize travel between sites
Route optimization to reduce fuel consumption
Regular vehicle maintenance to ensure fuel efficiency
Training staff in energy-efficient operating procedures

Environmental Training and Awareness

Our commitment to environmental responsibility extends to our entire team:

Staff Training

Comprehensive environmental training for all technicians
Regular updates on best practices and new eco-friendly technologies
Certification in environmentally responsible cleaning methods
Empowerment of staff to make environmentally sound decisions in the field

Client Education

Informing clients about our environmental practices and their benefits
Providing maintenance recommendations that reduce the need for intensive cleaning
Offering eco-friendly alternatives when discussing service options
Transparency about the environmental aspects of our cleaning processes

Continuous Improvement

Our environmental policy is not static; we are committed to ongoing improvement:

Research and Development

Staying informed about advances in eco-friendly cleaning technologies
Testing new products and methods to find more sustainable options
Participating in industry forums focused on environmental best practices
Collaborating with suppliers to develop more sustainable cleaning solutions

Environmental Impact Assessment

Regular review of our operations to identify areas for environmental improvement
Tracking resource consumption and setting reduction targets
Soliciting feedback from clients and staff about our environmental practices
Annual review and update of this environmental policy

Environmental Concerns or Questions

If you have questions about our environmental practices or suggestions for improvement, please contact us at:

Email: gregoryherman@jsipressclean.com
Phone: (907) 247-5027

Joe Schwierking Inspection
176 Pond Reef Rd
Ketchikan, AK 99901-9308
United States

Environmental Policy