The call comes as new pollution prevention guidelines are published by the Environment Agency.

Steve Wenham, Technical Advisor at the Environment Agency, said: “In 2006 the construction and demolition industry was responsible for 271 pollution incidents causing environmental damage, of which 123 were to water. Of these, 18 incidents were serious causing significant damage to watercourses.

“These incidents are not only damaging to our environment, but it can leave the responsible company with an expensive clean up bill. Under the law those who pollute our environment have to pay the clean up costs.

Construction works near watercourses which include lakes, reservoirs and canals can cause pollution by silt, oil and chemical spills. Also poor waste management can have a major impact on the water environment – for example, improper storage of hazardous wastes like oils and solvents could lead to it escaping into water.

The new Pollution Prevention Guidelines (PPG) provides advice, useful references and links relevant websites on topics such as:

* Pollution Prevention Planning – most pollution incidents are avoidable by careful planning.
* Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDS) – controlling surface water runoff.
* Safe use of concrete and cement – can lead to serious pollution as it is alkaline and corrosive.
* Oil and chemical storage and use – legal requirements apply on how they are stored.
* Safe herbicide use – written approval for use near waters is needed.
* Waste management – advice on Site Waste Management Plans.
* Pollution incident response – planning for incidents and who to call.