Keeping vehicles and equipment clean isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about maintenance, safety, and longevity. Whether you’re running a commercial fleet, managing a farm, or operating heavy machinery, a properly designed wash rack can make all the difference. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about wash racks, from basic functionality to advanced environmental compliance features.
What is a Wash Rack and Why Does It Matter?
A wash rack is a designated area specifically designed for washing vehicles, equipment, and machinery while managing water runoff and contaminants. Unlike washing on regular pavement or dirt, a wash rack system captures and treats wastewater before it enters storm drains or natural water systems. These specialized washing stations typically feature concrete or steel grating surfaces, drainage systems, and water treatment capabilities.
The importance of wash racks extends beyond simple convenience. Without proper containment, washing activities can release harmful chemicals, oils, greases, and sediments directly into the environment. Many jurisdictions now require businesses to use compliant vehicle washing facilities to prevent water pollution. A well-designed wash rack protects both your operation and the surrounding ecosystem while ensuring you meet regulatory standards.
Modern wash rack systems have evolved to include sophisticated features like oil-water separators, sediment traps, and recycling capabilities. These additions make them essential infrastructure for industries ranging from agriculture to construction, transportation to mining.
Types of Wash Racks for Different Applications
Commercial Vehicle Wash Racks
Commercial wash racks designed for trucks, buses, and fleet vehicles typically feature heavy-duty construction to withstand constant use. These systems often measure 12-16 feet wide and 40-60 feet long to accommodate large vehicles. The best commercial wash racks include:
- High-capacity drainage systems that handle 50-100 gallons per minute
- Reinforced concrete or steel grating rated for vehicles up to 80,000 pounds
- Multiple wash bay configurations for simultaneous vehicle cleaning
- Automated water recycling systems that can reclaim up to 80% of water used
Fleet operators report significant cost savings when switching from mobile washing services to permanent wash rack installations. One logistics company in Texas documented annual savings of $47,000 after installing a three-bay commercial wash rack system, with the investment paying for itself within 18 months.
Agricultural Equipment Wash Racks
Farm and agricultural wash racks face unique challenges due to the size of equipment and the nature of contaminants involved. Tractors, combines, and sprayers accumulate soil, pesticides, and organic matter that require specialized treatment. Agricultural wash rack systems typically incorporate:
- Extended length platforms (60-100 feet) to accommodate large machinery
- Chemical treatment systems for pesticide and herbicide neutralization
- Biosecurity features to prevent disease transmission between farms
- Seasonal drainage considerations for freeze-thaw cycles in colder climates
Research from the USDA shows that proper equipment washing can reduce crop disease transmission by up to 75%. Farmers using dedicated wash rack facilities also report better equipment performance and reduced maintenance costs due to decreased corrosion from accumulated chemicals and moisture.
Industrial Equipment Wash Stations
Construction and mining operations require robust industrial wash racks capable of handling the heaviest equipment and the toughest contaminants. These systems must manage mud, concrete residue, hydraulic fluids, and other industrial byproducts. Key features include:
- Ultra-heavy-duty grating systems supporting equipment over 100,000 pounds
- High-pressure water systems (2,000-4,000 PSI) for removing caked-on materials
- Multi-stage filtration for sediment and oil separation
- Large holding tanks (5,000-10,000 gallons) for water treatment and recycling
Mining operations in Australia have demonstrated that proper wash rack usage extends equipment life by an average of 15-20%, representing millions of dollars in deferred replacement costs for large mining fleets.
Essential Components of an Effective Wash Rack System
The Foundation: Drainage and Grating
The foundation of any quality wash rack starts with proper drainage design. The surface must slope toward collection points, typically at a grade of 1-2% to ensure complete water runoff without creating unsafe working conditions. Two main grating options dominate the market:
Steel grating offers superior strength and longevity, with galvanized or stainless steel options lasting 20-30 years under normal conditions. The open design allows water to drain quickly while providing excellent traction for workers and equipment. However, steel grating costs 2-3 times more than concrete alternatives initially.
Concrete wash racks provide a more economical solution and can be customized with textured surfaces or washed stone aggregate finishes for improved traction. Properly installed concrete systems last 15-25 years but may require more frequent maintenance in high-traffic applications. The trade-off between initial cost and long-term durability makes this decision crucial for project budgets.
Water Treatment and Environmental Compliance
Environmental regulations have transformed wash rack design over the past two decades. Most jurisdictions now prohibit direct discharge of wash water to storm drains or surface waters. Modern wash rack systems incorporate multiple treatment stages:
Primary treatment begins with sediment traps that capture heavy solids and particulates. These settling basins remove 60-80% of suspended solids through gravity separation. Regular cleaning of sediment traps—typically monthly or quarterly depending on usage—ensures consistent performance.
Secondary treatment uses oil-water separators to remove petroleum products and other hydrocarbons. Coalescing plate separators or API (American Petroleum Institute) separators can reduce oil content to below 10-15 parts per million, meeting most discharge standards. Annual maintenance and proper disposal of collected oils are essential for regulatory compliance.
Tertiary treatment may include filtration systems, pH adjustment, or biological treatment for specific contaminants. Some advanced wash rack installations now incorporate membrane bioreactors or constructed wetlands for final polishing before discharge or reuse.
Water Recycling and Conservation
With water costs rising and environmental concerns growing, wash rack water recycling has become standard practice for many operations. Modern recycling systems can reclaim 70-90% of wash water for reuse, dramatically reducing both water consumption and wastewater disposal costs.
A typical recycling-equipped wash rack includes filtration units, clarifying tanks, and disinfection systems. The investment in recycling equipment typically ranges from $15,000 to $75,000 depending on system capacity and treatment sophistication. However, operations washing 20+ vehicles daily can see payback periods as short as 2-3 years through reduced water and sewer costs.
Designing Your Wash Rack: Key Considerations
Size and Layout Planning
Proper wash rack sizing depends on your specific needs and equipment dimensions. As a general rule, wash rack platforms should extend at least 3-4 feet beyond the vehicle or equipment being washed on all sides. This containment margin ensures all runoff reaches the drainage system.
For fleet operations, consider these standard sizing guidelines:
- Passenger vehicles: 12′ x 25′ minimum
- Light trucks and vans: 12′ x 30′ minimum
- Large trucks and buses: 14′ x 50′ minimum
- Agricultural equipment: 16′ x 80′ or larger
- Heavy construction equipment: 20′ x 100′ or custom dimensions
Multi-bay configurations improve efficiency by allowing simultaneous washing operations. However, each bay requires independent drainage and treatment capacity. A three-bay system might need 50-75% more infrastructure investment than a single bay but can triple throughput during peak periods.
Location and Site Selection
Choosing the right location for your wash rack installation impacts both construction costs and operational efficiency. Ideal sites feature:
Adequate drainage with natural slope away from buildings and toward collection systems. Locations requiring extensive grading or drainage modification can add $10,000-50,000 to project costs.
Utility access including water supply lines (1-2 inch diameter for adequate pressure and flow), electrical service for pumps and lighting (typically 30-50 amp service), and sewer connections if allowed for treated discharge.
Weather protection considerations, especially in regions with freezing temperatures. Covered wash racks cost 40-60% more initially but protect workers, reduce ice hazards, and enable year-round operation in cold climates.
Proximity to equipment storage minimizes travel time and fuel costs while preventing tracking of contaminants across your facility. However, wash racks should be positioned to prevent overspray or runoff from reaching other operational areas.
Material Selection and Durability
Wash rack construction materials must withstand constant water exposure, chemical contact, and heavy loads. The primary choices each offer distinct advantages:
Hot-dipped galvanized steel provides excellent corrosion resistance and typically lasts 25-30 years in wash rack applications. The zinc coating thickness (typically 2.0-3.0 mils) determines longevity, with heavier coatings justifying their premium cost in harsh environments.
Stainless steel offers superior chemical resistance and the longest service life (30-40 years) but costs 2-3 times more than galvanized alternatives. Industries using aggressive cleaning chemicals or operating in marine environments often find stainless steel worth the investment.
Reinforced concrete with epoxy coatings provides excellent value for stationary installations. Modern epoxy formulations resist chemical attack and can last 15-20 years between recoating. Concrete wash racks typically cost 30-50% less than steel alternatives but require more substantial foundations.
Installation Process and Timeline
Professional Installation vs. DIY
Installing a wash rack system requires specialized knowledge of drainage, plumbing, and environmental regulations. While simple portable wash racks can be owner-installed, permanent facilities almost always benefit from professional installation. Professional installers bring:
Regulatory expertise to ensure your system meets all federal, state, and local requirements. Non-compliant installations can result in fines of $5,000-50,000 or more, plus mandatory remediation costs.
Engineering knowledge for proper drainage design, structural calculations, and utility integration. Incorrectly sized drainage systems are the most common installation failure, leading to pooling water and incomplete containment.
Equipment and experience to complete installation efficiently and correctly the first time. Professional crews typically complete wash rack installations in 1-3 weeks versus 4-8 weeks for inexperienced installers.
Cost Factors and Budget Planning
Wash rack costs vary dramatically based on size, features, and site conditions. Budget planning should account for all project phases:
Basic portable wash racks start at $3,000-8,000 for simple grated platforms with basic collection pans. These entry-level systems work for low-volume applications but lack treatment capability.
Mid-range permanent installations including drainage, basic treatment, and standard grating typically cost $15,000-50,000 for single-bay systems. This price range covers most small business and farm applications.
Commercial-grade systems with multiple bays, sophisticated treatment, and water recycling run $75,000-250,000 or more. Large fleet operations and industrial facilities typically invest at this level.
Additional cost factors include site preparation ($5,000-25,000), utility connections ($3,000-15,000), weather enclosures ($20,000-100,000), and ongoing maintenance equipment ($2,000-10,000).
Maintenance and Operations Best Practices
Daily and Weekly Maintenance Tasks
Proper wash rack maintenance ensures system longevity and consistent performance. Daily operations should include:
Visual inspections of drainage systems for blockages or standing water. Catching drainage issues early prevents more serious problems and potential environmental releases.
Surface cleaning to remove debris and prevent buildup that could impede water flow. A simple squeegee and broom take just 5-10 minutes but significantly extend system life.
Equipment checks including pressure washer operation, chemical dispenser function, and water supply valve operation. Addressing minor equipment issues immediately prevents unexpected downtime.
Weekly maintenance expands to include sediment trap inspection and cleaning as needed. High-volume operations may require more frequent attention, while light-use facilities might extend to bi-weekly schedules.
Monthly and Seasonal Maintenance
Monthly wash rack maintenance should address accumulated sediment, oil buildup, and system performance. Key tasks include:
Sediment removal from collection sumps and traps. Most systems accumulate 50-200 pounds of sediment monthly depending on usage and soil conditions. Proper disposal following local regulations is essential.
Oil-water separator maintenance including checking float levels, removing accumulated oil, and inspecting baffles. Neglected separators lose efficiency rapidly and can cause regulatory violations.
Drain line flushing to prevent blockages in underground piping. High-pressure water jetting every 3-6 months keeps drainage systems flowing freely.
Seasonal preparations matter especially in cold climates. Winterizing wash rack systems includes draining water lines, protecting pumps from freezing, and potentially decommissioning for the season if year-round operation isn’t necessary.
Common Problems and Solutions
Wash rack troubleshooting often involves addressing recurring issues:
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Standing water | Inadequate slope or blocked drains | Clear blockages; adjust drainage grade if needed |
| Oil breakthrough | Separator overloaded or damaged | Clean/replace separator; reduce wash frequency if necessary |
| Slow drainage | Sediment buildup in pipes | Hydro-jet drain lines; increase trap cleaning frequency |
| Surface deterioration | Chemical damage or freeze-thaw | Repair/recoat surfaces; improve drainage; add heating |
| Odor issues | Organic matter decomposition | Increase cleaning frequency; improve ventilation; use biological treatments |
Environmental Compliance and Regulations
Federal and State Requirements
Wash rack regulations have become increasingly stringent as environmental awareness has grown. The Clean Water Act prohibits discharge of pollutants to waters of the United States without permits. Most wash rack operations fall under general permits or specific industry permits.
Key federal regulations affecting wash racks include:
NPDES (National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System) permits required for facilities discharging to surface waters. Even treated wash water typically requires permit coverage, with discharge limits for oil, suspended solids, pH, and specific chemicals.
Stormwater regulations require separation of wash water from stormwater systems. Mixing contaminated wash water with stormwater creates larger volumes of water requiring treatment and potentially triggers more stringent permit requirements.
RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act) governs waste management, including sediment and oil removed from wash rack systems. Improper disposal can result in significant penalties and environmental damage liability.
State and local regulations often exceed federal requirements. Some states prohibit any discharge of vehicle wash water, requiring 100% recycling or licensed disposal. Others set stricter limits on specific contaminants based on local water quality conditions.
Record Keeping and Reporting
Maintaining proper wash rack documentation protects your operation from regulatory issues and demonstrates environmental stewardship. Essential records include:
Maintenance logs documenting all inspections, cleaning, and repairs with dates, personnel involved, and specific actions taken. These logs prove due diligence if problems arise.
Waste disposal records showing proper handling of all materials removed from the wash rack system, including sediment, oils, and any special wastes. Retain disposal manifests for at least three years, or longer if required by state regulations.
Water quality testing results if required by your permit. Many facilities must conduct quarterly or annual testing for key parameters and submit results to regulatory agencies.
Operator training documentation showing that personnel understand proper wash rack operation and environmental protection procedures. Regular training updates (annually or bi-annually) demonstrate ongoing commitment to compliance.
Industry-Specific Applications and Case Studies
Transportation and Fleet Management
Fleet wash rack systems provide some of the clearest return-on-investment cases. A regional delivery company in the Midwest documented their experience after installing a two-bay wash rack system:
Initial investment: $87,000 including installation, treatment systems, and weather enclosure
Previous monthly washing costs: $4,200 (mobile service contract)
New monthly operating costs: $800 (water, electricity, supplies, labor)
Monthly savings: $3,400
Payback period: 25.6 months
Beyond direct cost savings, the company reported improved vehicle appearance, better driver morale, and reduced corrosion-related maintenance. The ability to wash vehicles on-demand rather than scheduling mobile services improved operational flexibility significantly.
Agriculture and Farming Operations
Agricultural wash rack applications focus heavily on biosecurity and chemical management. A cooperative of grain farmers in Iowa installed a shared wash rack facility serving 47 member farms. Their experience highlights the value of collaborative approaches:
The cooperative invested $125,000 in a large-capacity wash rack with specialized chemical neutralization systems. Individual member farms contributed based on acreage and expected usage. Within three years, the cooperative documented:
- 85% reduction in crop disease transmission between farms
- $200,000+ savings from prevented disease outbreaks
- Improved pesticide management reducing groundwater contamination risks
- Better equipment condition with 10-15% longer service life reported
The shared model made sophisticated wash rack technology affordable for farms that couldn’t justify individual installations, while the centralized location encouraged consistent use by making cleaning convenient.
Construction and Heavy Equipment
Construction wash rack requirements differ significantly from lighter applications due to equipment size and contamination levels. A large commercial construction firm in California shared their implementation story:
After receiving a $35,000 fine for improper equipment washing, the company invested $180,000 in a permanent wash rack at their equipment yard. The system features:
- 120-foot platform accommodating their largest excavators
- 15,000-gallon settling basin for high-sediment loads
- High-pressure hot water system for removing hardened concrete
- Full water recycling reducing consumption by 80%
The company now saves approximately $6,000 monthly in water costs alone, with the fine and remediation experience motivating commitment to proper practices. Equipment maintenance managers reported that systematic cleaning reduced hydraulic system failures by 40% through early contamination detection.
Advanced Features and Technology Integration
Automated Washing Systems
Automated wash rack technology brings efficiency gains similar to those seen in commercial car washes. These systems use sensors, programmable controllers, and automated equipment to reduce labor requirements while ensuring consistent cleaning results.
Key components of automated wash rack systems include:
Vehicle detection sensors that activate systems when equipment enters the wash area and adjust water flow, pressure, and chemical application based on vehicle size and type detected.
Programmable chemical injection that delivers precise detergent ratios optimized for different cleaning tasks. This reduces chemical waste by 30-50% compared to manual application while improving cleaning effectiveness.
Robotic wash arms that follow vehicle contours automatically, ensuring complete coverage while minimizing water usage. These systems work particularly well for standardized fleet vehicles but can adapt to varying equipment types.
Data logging and reporting features that track water consumption, chemical usage, and system performance. This data supports environmental reporting requirements and identifies optimization opportunities.
Water Quality Monitoring
Real-time wash rack monitoring helps maintain compliance and optimize operations. Modern monitoring systems measure:
pH levels continuously to ensure discharge meets permit requirements (typically 6.0-9.0 range). Automated alerts warn operators of excursions before violations occur.
Oil content using optical sensors or automated sampling systems. These prevent discharge of water exceeding permitted oil concentrations (often 10-15 ppm).
Flow rates tracking total water usage and identifying leaks or system inefficiencies. Flow monitoring helps quantify water recycling performance and identify maintenance needs.
Temperature especially important in cold climates where freezing can damage systems or in hot climates where elevated temperatures might affect treatment efficiency.
Advanced systems integrate monitoring data with facility management software, creating comprehensive environmental compliance dashboards that simplify reporting and documentation.
Energy-Efficient Operation
Sustainable wash rack design increasingly incorporates energy-saving features:
Solar water heating reduces the energy required for hot water washing, particularly valuable in regions with strong solar resources. Solar systems can offset 60-80% of water heating energy in optimal conditions.
Variable frequency drives on pumps adjust motor speed to match demand, reducing electrical consumption by 20-40% compared to constant-speed motors. The premium cost for VFD-equipped systems typically pays back in 2-4 years.
LED lighting in covered wash racks uses 75% less energy than traditional lighting while providing better visibility and lasting 3-5 times longer, reducing maintenance requirements.
Heat recovery systems capture thermal energy from warm wash water to preheat incoming cold water, improving efficiency in operations requiring heated wash water.
Selecting the Right Wash Rack for Your Needs
Assessing Your Requirements
Wash rack selection starts with honest assessment of your specific needs:
Volume and frequency: How many vehicles or equipment pieces require washing daily or weekly? Operations washing fewer than 5 vehicles daily might manage with portable systems, while higher volumes justify permanent installations.
Equipment types and sizes: What dimensions must your wash rack accommodate? Don’t forget to account for future equipment acquisitions or the largest occasional items requiring cleaning.
Contaminant types: What substances will your wash rack handle? Agricultural operations with pesticides need different treatment than construction equipment with mud and concrete residue.
Regulatory environment: What are your local discharge requirements? Some jurisdictions allow treated discharge, while others mandate zero discharge with water recycling or removal for offsite treatment.
Budget constraints: What capital is available now versus what can be financed? Remember to account for installation, site preparation, and ongoing operational costs beyond the equipment purchase price.
Comparing Options and Vendors
Wash rack vendor evaluation should look beyond initial price to long-term value:
Warranty coverage: Quality manufacturers typically offer 5-10 year warranties on structural components and 1-3 years on mechanical systems. Longer warranties reflect confidence in product durability.
Service and support: Is technical support readily available? Can the vendor provide maintenance training? Are replacement parts stocked locally or subject to long lead times?
References and track record: Request references from similar operations in comparable conditions. Site visits to existing installations reveal real-world performance better than marketing materials.
Customization capability: Can the vendor modify standard designs to fit your specific requirements, or are you limited to off-the-shelf configurations?
Compliance knowledge: Does the vendor understand applicable regulations and design systems to meet requirements? This expertise can prevent expensive corrections after installation.
Future Trends in Wash Rack Technology
Emerging Innovations
Wash rack technology evolution continues to advance:
Biological treatment systems using specialized bacteria to break down petroleum products and other contaminants offer alternative approaches to chemical treatment. These systems often reduce operating costs while improving efficiencies.
Membrane filtration technology borrowed from municipal water treatment provides exceptionally clean water for recycling. Advanced systems achieve 95-98% water recovery with minimal chemical addition.
IoT integration connects wash racks to broader facility management systems, enabling remote monitoring, predictive maintenance alerts, and comprehensive environmental compliance reporting from any internet-connected device.
Ozone treatment systems provide chemical-free disinfection for recycled wash water, eliminating bacterial growth concerns while reducing chemical costs and environmental impacts.
Sustainability and Green Technology
Eco-friendly wash rack design responds to growing environmental consciousness:
Rainwater harvesting integration captures roof runoff from covered wash racks and surrounding buildings, reducing municipal water consumption while providing high-quality wash water after basic filtration.
Wetland polishing systems use constructed wetlands as final treatment stages, providing chemical-free water polishing while creating habitat and improving site aesthetics. These systems work best in warmer climates with adequate land availability.
Biodegradable detergents specifically formulated for wash rack use break down rapidly in treatment systems and the environment, reducing long-term impacts. Modern formulations clean as effectively as traditional products while improving sustainability.
Carbon footprint reduction through solar power, efficient equipment, and water conservation helps operations achieve broader sustainability goals while potentially qualifying for green business certifications and incentives.
Take Action: Upgrade Your Washing Operations with a Professional Wash Rack
Whether you’re managing a commercial fleet, agricultural operation, or industrial facility, investing in a proper wash rack pays dividends through improved efficiency, environmental compliance, and equipment longevity. The initial investment is significant, but the long-term benefits—reduced water costs, avoided fines, extended equipment life, and environmental stewardship—make wash racks essential infrastructure for serious operations.
Don’t let inadequate washing facilities hold your operation back or expose you to regulatory risks. Professional wash rack systems designed for your specific needs provide the foundation for responsible, efficient vehicle and equipment maintenance.
Start by assessing your current washing practices and requirements, then consult with experienced wash rack vendors who can design a solution matching your operational needs and budget. Whether you need a simple containment system or a sophisticated multi-bay facility with water recycling and automated features, today’s wash rack technology offers options for every application.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wash Racks
What is a wash rack used for?
A wash rack is a designated area for washing vehicles, equipment, and machinery while containing and treating the resulting wastewater. It prevents pollutants like oils, chemicals, and sediments from entering storm drains or natural water systems, ensuring environmental compliance while providing an efficient cleaning station.
How much does a wash rack system cost?
Wash rack costs vary widely based on size and features. Simple portable systems start around $3,000-8,000, mid-range permanent installations run $15,000-50,000, and commercial-grade systems with multiple bays and advanced treatment can cost $75,000-250,000 or more. Site preparation and installation add to these base costs.
Do I need a permit for a wash rack?
Most jurisdictions require permits for wash rack installations, especially if discharging treated water. The specific permits needed depend on your location, facility type, and discharge method. Consult with local environmental agencies or a qualified wash rack vendor familiar with regional regulations before beginning any installation project.
How often should a wash rack be cleaned?
Daily maintenance includes removing visible debris and checking drainage. Sediment traps typically need cleaning monthly or more frequently with heavy use. Oil-water separators require monthly inspection and cleaning as needed. Complete system flushing and deep cleaning should occur quarterly or semi-annually depending on usage intensity.
Can wash rack water be recycled?
Yes, modern wash rack systems can recycle 70-90% of wash water through filtration, treatment, and disinfection processes. Water recycling significantly reduces operating costs and environmental impact, though it requires additional equipment investment. Recycling systems typically pay for themselves within 2-4 years in high-volume applications.
What size wash rack do I need?
Wash rack size depends on your largest equipment with 3-4 feet of clearance on all sides. Passenger vehicles need minimum 12′ x 25′ platforms, light trucks require 12′ x 30′, large trucks and buses need 14′ x 50′, agricultural equipment typically requires 16′ x 80′ or larger, and heavy construction equipment may need 20′ x 100′ or custom dimensions.
What maintenance does a wash rack require?
Regular wash rack maintenance includes daily debris removal and drainage checks, weekly sediment trap inspection, monthly deep cleaning of separators and collection systems, quarterly drain line flushing, and annual equipment servicing. Proper maintenance extends system life, ensures regulatory compliance, and prevents costly emergency repairs.
Are portable wash racks effective?
Portable wash racks work well for low-volume applications, temporary sites, or operations with budget constraints. They provide basic containment and collection but typically lack sophisticated treatment capabilities. For frequent use or strict environmental requirements, permanent installations offer better long-term value and performance.
- United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). “Clean Water Act Requirements for Vehicle Washing.” https://www.epa.gov/npdes
- USDA Agricultural Research Service. “Equipment Sanitation and Disease Prevention in Agriculture.”
- National Association of Fleet Administrators (NAFA). “Fleet Washing Best Practices Guide.”
- American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). “Drainage Design Standards for Wash Rack Facilities.”
This article was last updated November 2025 to reflect current wash rack regulations, technology, and industry best practices.
