What should a worker do first if they notice contaminated water entering a surface water drain?

When a worker notices contaminated water entering a surface water drain, the priority should be to immediately stop the pollution. This action is critical because the contamination can have severe implications for the environment, including harming aquatic life and potentially affecting public health. Stopping the source of pollution helps to minimize the risk and prevents further environmental damage.

While notifying a supervisor, documenting the incident, and blocking the drain are important steps in the response process that should follow, they do not directly address the urgency of halting the contamination. Stopping the pollution first ensures that immediate harm is reduced and creates a safer situation for both the workers and the surrounding ecosystem. Taking swift action to prevent contamination is not only a legal requirement under various environmental protection regulations but also reflects a proactive approach to environmental stewardship.