Be sure to ______________ any used parts or equipment stored outside to prevent contamination from runoff.

• A. Cover
• B. Dispose of
• C. Sell
• D. Move indoors

Answer: (A)

Covering any used parts or equipment stored outside creates a barrier between contaminants such as oil, grease, solvents, or metal residues and rainwater. When precipitation hits exposed materials, pollutants can be washed into soil, storm drains, or waterways. A tarp, lid, or other cover keeps moisture from contacting the contaminants, reducing runoff and the potential environmental impact. Moving indoors or disposing of parts are valid considerations, but covering is the simplest, most immediate way to prevent runoff contamination in outdoor storage.