Commercial Excavation

Recruiting and Retaining Talented Women in Construction

While it may be a common belief that men are typically interested in the construction business, there has been a rise of women in construction positions. At Mikula Contracting, women contribute significantly to our team and we take proactive measures to find talented women to hire in our business.

It’s easy enough to make a goal to increase the number of women in construction. But what can we do to ensure that number increases? Action is more important than words. Let’s take a look at some measures that all construction businesses can take to make women feel more welcome in the construction industry. 

Current Situation of Women in Construction

Women make up 47% of the total workforce in America, but only 10% of the construction industry. The National Association of Women In Construction is organized to be a networking group for all women in construction and help them break into the male-dominated industry. 

Women do face obstacles when trying to work in construction. There are tangible reasons that deter women from applying for a construction job and certainly keep them from staying in a construction position. Some of these setbacks include: 

• No Women Role Models: If you expect a slew of women applicants but don’t have any existing women in your company, you may have a tough start. Every company has to start somewhere, so it’s crucial to take responsibility for your past negligence in hiring women and spell out your future goals. 

• Being Passed Up for Promotions: From a recent survey, 73% of women in construction feel that they have been passed up for promotions based on gender rather than their skill set. This shows that it is an industry problem that needs to show a change in order to expect more women to enter into construction careers.  

• Gender Pay Gaps: If a company isn’t monitoring gender pay gaps, then there is a problem. Every construction business should measure each person’s pay regardless of gender and make sure that the numbers are fair. 

• Feeling Left Out of Social Situations: 8 out of 10 women in construction feel left out of social conversations and events. A company needs to proactively work to plan events that are inclusive to all genders. 

• Higher Risk of Injury Due to Poorly-Fitted Equipment: Women are at a higher risk of injury because the safety equipment isn’t fit for their bodies. The construction company has a huge responsibility to protect all of their employees by offering proper safety equipment catered to all body types. 

While the leadership of women in construction has been rising, the representation is still not substantial. 43% of companies do not even monitor gender pay gaps in their organizations. If they are not aware of what is happening, how will change come about? Our team at Mikula acknowledges how vital women are to the construction industry and are taking action to increase women in construction.  

How Mikula Recruits & Retains Top Women Talent

We have a goal to increase women working in construction. We can start by eliminating the obstacles that women face. When we work toward including women in project management and building up women in leadership positions, we produce role models for new women in construction.

We believe that we can increase the percentage of women in the construction industry one company at a time - starting with our company. Our family-owned company knows how valuable it is to have women involved in leadership decisions. Women have proven time after time to be valuable construction employees. “Kim Meano, our Office Manager/Project Coordinator, plays an essential role within our company’s leadership team.  Kim’ s extensive knowledge of the construction industry and our services not only provides value to our organization but to our clients as well in her role as Project Coordinator.  For many years, Kim continues to impress our clients with her vast knowledge, organization and outstanding client service.” - Dennis Mikula, Jr., Executive Vice President

Kim Meano took some time to share her thoughts on what makes Mikula a great place to work in this brief interview:

How many years (total) have you worked for Mikula Contracting?

Kim: I’ve worked for Mikula Contracting almost 18 years, taking 4 off in between to raise my daughter and returning to the office. 

Why did you join Mikula Contracting?

Kim: I was previously a restaurant manager. Mikula Contracting was an opportunity that was recommended to me since I was looking for more consistent working hours. Having grown up in Clifton, I was aware of how long they were in business. Coming from my previous career, this presented more stability. 

What is your primary role at Mikula Contracting?

Kim: Customer service is number one. As the Office Manager and Project Coordinator,  I gather project information, provide estimates, prepare permit applications, obtain utility mark outs, schedule projects and bill our clients. 

What keeps you interested in working at Mikula Contracting?

Kim: I’ve felt right at “home” from day one. They’re a very close family, and we’re like an extension of that family. In the office, we’re constantly evolving. Trying to keep up with the pace of increasing work. Being here as long as I have, seeing the increasing work is something all of us should be proud of. I think this speaks volumes for the company and all our employees. 

Our Recruiting Process

As we look to hire women in the industry, we have to adjust our process to make it clear that women employees are sought after in our company. A prospective female hire will see our company goals and culture and know that they will be safe and valued when choosing Mikula Contracting. Some of our recruiting strategies include: 

• Women in the Hiring Process: If you have a networking event and have a woman there to represent your construction company, you can show that your company values women in construction. This is proof that there is action behind your promises when you have a woman involved in hiring other women in your construction business. 

• Inclusive Job Postings: The wording in job postings can make a big difference on who responds. Be sure to seek out quality men or women and do not default to a male pronoun in your job description. 

• Reaching Out to Women: Women are unlikely to apply for a construction position, feeling under-qualified or unsure of breaking into the male-dominated industry. When you reach out to women and ask them to apply, it will arm them with the confidence that your company will have their back. 

• Networking Opportunities: Offer a variety of networking opportunities for women to come into your office and take an interest in your company. You can start young with a bring-your-daughter-to-work day. Or you can offer open invitations for “coffee with managers” where anyone can come and ask questions and get to know the leadership of your company. 

• Create Diverse Teams: The most valuable teams are made up of people from diverse backgrounds and personalities. When you have a team of multiple genders, races, and socio-economic backgrounds, you can glean all perspectives in order to understand your demographics better. 

• Resist Stereotypes: Create a workplace culture where negative stereotypes are not tolerated. Build team relationships where you know they will stick up for each other if a client or co-worker says something offensive. 

When women feel valued in the hiring process, they will feel safer as they move forward with your company. Clearly communicating your goals for hiring more women in construction will gravitate more quality applicants toward your business. 

How to Encourage Women to Pursue Careers in Construction

As time goes on and the construction industry moves toward male and female contracting teams, more women will be willing to have career paths in construction. All of the obstacles that we mentioned above have remedies if they are closely monitored in a company. 

Change the Perspective    

You can welcome more female workers when you show them that they aren’t taking a risk to be constantly passed over in your company. Monitor your gender pay gaps, alternate between genders when promoting project managers, and provide the appropriate safety equipment for both genders. Be transparent about your goals and monitoring in these categories. 

If your company has grown to be male-dominated and, in turn, disrespectful to outsiders over the years, then do something to make a change. You can change company culture by setting expectations and cracking down on disrespectful behavior. It is never too late to create a safe company atmosphere. 

Learn to Embrace Diversity and Equality

One of the reasons that Mikula Contracting was named New Jersey Family Business of the Year is because of our inclusivity and innovation. When we spot a hole in our business, we do what it takes by encouraging more women in construction to contribute to our company’s evolution.  

Equality and diversity only improve your company as multiple perspectives go into the decision-making processes. If you have a company with a one-track mind, you will never learn how to reach various customer bases and grow your business.  

Inclusive Job Descriptions

Those looking at a career in construction can tell what types of companies embrace diversity and equality through their job description. Ensure your company makes your values clear in posting an inclusive job description that steers away from gender-specific pronouns and masculine adjectives. 

You can explicitly state in a job description that women applicants are welcome! This will set you apart from other construction job postings and help you find valuable female applicants looking to work in the construction industry. 

Mentorship Programs  

Offering mentorship opportunities with other women in construction will increase the number of women interested. Whether they find a networking group in The National Association of Women in Construction or join a mentorship program through college, women's representation is vital. 

Learning directly from a woman in the industry is important because women can build relationships with someone to ask genuine questions. It’s rare to ask about discrimination or pay gap experiences in a quick interview without getting short answers. When a connection is developed, women can ask the heavy questions that are weighing on their minds. 

Mikula Welcomes you to Apply Today!

Our construction company has built an excellent reputation in the community throughout the years. We offer excavation and demolition services for both residential and commercial properties. It is vital to partner with a company that is trustworthy and hard-working. 

Mikula Contracting is a great family business that is ready to expand and grow in all ways. We are committed to supporting women in construction and evolving our team to reflect that. If you are interested in joining an inclusive and welcoming team, apply with us today! You can always contact us and let us know of your interest before applying. 

by Dennis Mikula Jr.

Common Excavation Types Used in Construction

A lot of times, a project is delayed in getting started because of the excavation work that needs to be done. Many home-owners think the project can be done without professionals. How hard is it to take a sledgehammer to a pool? It’s much more challenging and dangerous than you think. And if you are in the market for commercial excavation, the longer you sit on that project, the more money it will cost you. Take some time to understand these excavation types to help you hire the right team for your job. 

How is Excavation Carried Out?

Whether you need commercial excavation or residential excavation, both require different excavation methods based on the specific project. Once you decide which type of material is specific to your project, you will be able to select the excavation method needed. 

Task-Based Excavation Types

These excavation methods are commonly used in residential and commercial excavation. Meet with an excavation team and dazzle them with your knowledge when you ask whether they’ll be using cut and fill or borrow excavation for your next project. 

1. Drainage

An example of drainage excavation is when water is not correctly draining in your backyard or a parking lot. Storm drains can be built using trenches or ditches for runoff. 

1. Cut and Fill 

Cut and fill excavation is also known as stripping, and it consists of clearing a large plot of land to make it ready for building. This may also include removing elevated sections to make sure the ground is level before construction begins. 

1. Dredging

Dredging happens underwater when sediment deposits build up and block waterways intended for boat traffic. It involves the removal of underwater debris in rivers, canals, or shallow ocean passages.  

1. Basement

When digging out for a basement, this requires basement excavation. Breaking through each layer of soil and digging through rocky surfaces is necessary to build out the basement of a home or building. 

1. Channel

An existing channel may be blocked and require channel excavation to drain properly again. The clearing of the debris and sediment is necessary to get the water flowing again. The excavation team always provides the equipment needed to work underwater. 

1. Trench

Trench excavation is used when digging pipelines or burying service lines. The digging length far exceeds the depth in this type of project. If you need a sprinkler system for your commercial building or home, trench excavation will be used to install the system. 

1. Borrow

Borrow excavation involves saving all the materials excavated from one area of the project and using them in a different aspect of the project. This can include using the soil and rocks cleared from a construction site when leveling and using those same materials to fill or grade another area. 

If you have a residential project regarding outdoor flooding, you can learn exactly how an experienced team plans to solve it through drainage excavation. Dredging and channel excavation may be more specific to commercial excavation projects. No matter what your project, Mikula Contracting can take care of it for you. 

Material-Based Excavation Types

There are a variety of materials that an expert excavation team may work with when completing your project. Let’s go through the materials and examples of projects requiring the excavation of each one.  

1. Topsoil

With topsoil excavation, the team will remove just the top layer of soil. Sometimes this needs to be done to clear out and start again with planting and growing healthy grass. The removal of this vegetation and dirt can also be done before building a structure to make the area sound and level. The excavated areas will then be ready for construction. 

1. Muck

Muck is the mix of soil and water that makes it challenging to build on. Muck excavation removes the mushy substance so that a sturdy foundation can be used to build upon. Sometimes the muck is relocated to dry out and be used in a later project. 

1. Earth

If a project requires digging a little deeper to create a building or bridge foundation, earth excavation comes into play. The topsoil is removed, and the layer below the topsoil is also removed so that the foundation can be laid. 

1. Rock

Sometimes there is a layer of rock below the topsoil. A common purpose for rock excavation is when a team is hired for residential excavation for a pool, and they hit a layer of rock. The project gets more complicated as heavy machinery is used to break up the rock and transport it out. 

These 4 types of materials are standard for excavation. When you choose the right team, they will be experienced with all material removals and know exactly what is needed for your project. 

Can These Methods Be Used For Residential and Commercial Excavation Jobs?

These methods are used for both residential and commercial excavation. A team that is experienced in commercial excavation work can easily work with residential excavation and vice versa. When working with the earth and digging to remove different types of land, residential and commercial projects require the same methods. 

If you are looking to dig for plumbing for your residential or commercial building, they would both use trench excavation. If you would like to even out bumpy land to build on top of it, earth excavation would be used to level the ground and lay the foundation. 

Excavation contractors will encounter the same types of excavation among residential and commercial excavation. Muck can be present at a home building site just as often as it is found at a commercial site. Topsoil excavation can be important when trying to get grass to grow in a rundown, garbage-filled field that can be found in a neglected residential or commercial area. And rock excavation is often encountered when digging for a swimming pool or basement in residential or commercial buildings. 

All types of excavation are used across residential and commercial projects, so many contractors specialize in both. When you choose an experienced contractor, they will explain your project's plans and know which excavation methods will be needed. 

Experienced Excavation Contractors in NJ

An excavation obstacle can be what is holding you back from starting your construction project. Do not procrastinate any longer, and take the steps toward getting the job done today. Hiring a team will leave the heavy lifting to the experts while you can relax.  

The most important part of your excavation project is hiring the right team. With Mikula Contracting, you know that the project will be done safely and professionally. The expert team can answer any questions you have specific to your commercial or residential excavation project. Call today to set up your first appointment. 

by Dennis Mikula Jr.

Winter Excavation: What You Need to Know

Are excavation projects happening in the winter? Are excavation services available in the winter? For breaking through frozen ground, is the cost higher? You may have several questions about winter excavation. While winter sounds like a great time to hire a construction team for a project that you’d like done by the spring, you want to be sure of the feasibility. 

Is Winter a Good Time for Beginning an Excavation Project?

Many excavation companies can experience a slow time in the winter months. People assume that the ground is too frozen to start on winter construction projects. This may be true for parts of the country, but at Mikula Contracting, winter excavation is readily available. Our team is able to focus on your excavation project and, with the use of frozen ground tools and soil warming, can get the job done even quicker in some cases. 

With countless deadlines approaching for construction projects in the spring, why not start on excavation work now? When you have an experienced team that is ready to work, there is no reason to delay. Leave it up to the experts to find the best methods for winter excavation NJ. 

How Cold Weather Affects Construction Projects

Temperatures must be below freezing for weeks in order for the top layer of earth to be frozen ground. If you are digging for the foundation of a home, then it is possible that the land is not frozen most of the winter. A winter excavation project can be done throughout most of the year. For the times that temperatures are below freezing and ice and snow come into the picture, then excavation work can be affected. 

• Snow and Ice: Dangers are possible when you mix snow and ice with an excavation project. The team is more susceptible to injuries on the job if they slip and fall. Mixing water with electrical equipment can also be worrisome. But with an experienced team, there are ways to work around it by using tarps to cover the construction area during a snowstorm. And each company has procedures for getting a job done right during a winter storm in New Jersey.  

• Consistent Below-Freezing Temperatures: With freezing temperatures, the ground can become rock hard and seemingly challenging to dig out. It isn’t often that temperatures stay below freezing at all hours of the day for weeks at a time. The ground can be soft and pliable if the sun is coming out and warming it.

Of course, cold temperatures do change the way things are done for a winter excavation project. But with an experienced team, tweaking a project to accommodate cold weather is just a regular day on the job. With a trusted team, you don’t have to worry about how they are going to execute the project. You can just enjoy the full attention of a winter excavation NJ team. 

Pros and Cons of Breaking Ground in the Winter

As with any excavation project, there are pros and cons to breaking ground during the winter. Depending on the project, the pros can outweigh the cons, and you can reap many benefits. If you have questions on a specific idea, contact Mikula Contracting to determine if their team is up for the job. 

Pros of Winter Excavation

It can seem impossible to be able to take on a commercial building project during the winter. Leave it up to the experts to determine if winter excavation is impossible or not. Here are some great things about breaking ground in the winter: 

• Not the busy period: Many construction companies experience a lull in business during the winter. When you hire a team for winter excavation, they will be able to give their undivided attention to your project. Rather than balancing multiple projects at once, your project will be the top priority. 

• More workforce: Often, more workers are available for one specific project during the winter months. Because construction companies are not being bombarded with contracts through the winter, they will be able to send more workers to your site. This will minimize the timeline of the project. 

• No waiting: Winter is a long time to wait out an urgent construction project. Time is money, and if you own the property and it is just sitting there without movement, all that money is lost. Construction projects during the winter may come with some extra costs, but it can be worth it when you look at the big picture. 

Suppose you finally just sold your house, and now you have to wait until Spring to get started on the construction of your new home? Those months of waiting can be excruciating, elongating the time between houses that your family is uprooted. Winter excavation can be of great value to those waiting to start a new construction project. 

Cons of Winter Excavation

There is a reason why you don’t see construction workers lining the highway throughout the winter. Winter construction can be challenging, especially with snow and ice. Here is what you need to know regarding the challenging parts of winter excavation: 

• Frozen ground: If it is a frigid winter with freezing temperatures for weeks on end, then even shallow excavation projects can be challenging to break ground. The frozen ground poses a big problem, requiring special tools. And many times, the soft soil can feel like solid concrete when it is frozen all the way through.  

• Discomfort of employees: Working in frigid conditions is not ideal for the workers. But neither is 100-degree weather. With the proper outerwear, this disadvantage can be quickly addressed. And with a trailer or warming tent on-site, the workers will have a chance to warm up between tasks and stay relatively comfortable. 

It is essential to know the downside of starting a winter excavation project before beginning the project. Speak to an excavation contractor NJ about how they work around the cons and if starting your construction in the winter is worth it. These disadvantages are not deal-breakers. It can take some creativity to begin a construction project during the winter. 

Winter Weather Digging and Excavation Advice

For excavation contracting advice, it is essential to know that the soil is not as hard as a rock most of the winter. Even if the temperatures are dipping through each night, the sun comes out during the day and warms the top layer of soil. Do not just assume that the project will be too challenging to take on during the winter. 

Another item of advice is to use water to warm and dig through the soil. High pressured water can be an effective way to dig through the frozen ground. And it’s not as expensive as some of the other tools or warming-soil methods. 

And lastly, if you are losing money waiting to start a construction project, pay the additional cost to start your winter excavation today. You will have your project completed earlier than usual and put the money you’re losing toward getting the job done. 

Tips for Winter Commercial Excavation Projects

With the real estate market booming right now, there isn’t time to wait for winter to be over to start on a commercial excavation project. You want to maximize your investment and get started on the project right away. 

If the extra cost is what’s keeping you from diving into a winter excavation project, then find ways to cut costs along the way. The project is waiting for you. All you have to do is contact Mikula Contracting and receive a consultation on your project. Our team of experts is ready to tackle your winter project. 

Tips for Winter Residential Excavation Projects

Winter is a great time to break ground on a new swimming pool. Imagine waiting for a pool construction project while it’s 100 degrees outside, dying for the project to be over. When you hire excavation contracting in the winter, you can guarantee your new pool will be ready when you need it. Take a look at some tips for winter residential excavation: 

• Be prepared to warm the ground: If your project can’t wait, then be ready to pay the costs to warm the earth. Ground heaters, insulation blankets, and clearing the area of any obstructed shade will prepare your site for excavation in cold weather. 

• Take advantage of warm-weather days: Do not waste one minute during the warmer days where the sun is shining bright and warming the ground. Get the full crew out there on those days and pile in as much work as possible. 

• Take advantage of inside work discounts: If it is possible to wait on an excavation project, look for deals from construction companies during the winter for interior jobs. Basement, kitchen, and bathroom remodels are very popular during the wintertime. These construction projects eliminate any issues with working on construction projects during the cold months of the year. 

Your residential excavation project can feasibly be done during the winter months. It is vital not to sit on a residential property, waiting to break ground because you assume the negatives outweigh the positives for a winter excavation project. Contact the professionals before you assume anything. 

Expert Excavation Services in NJ

All of your winter excavation questions can be answered in just one phone call. If you are feeling stressed about delaying a construction project due to the winter, take action today. Do not take your friend’s word for it about what they did when they built on their property. Seek advice from professionals in the business with 75 years of experience in New Jersey. 

You may face some obstacles for your winter excavation project, but that doesn’t mean it is impossible. Whether it means receiving a higher quote than it may be in the spring, that number can be negated by saving money on time. The project can get completed quicker with a full team devoted to your assignment. And you can save money on holding a property without building on it throughout the winter. 

For your next winter excavation project, Mikula Contracting is the place to call. Our experts are prepared with the knowledge and equipment to get the job efficiently. There is no ground too frozen for our projects. And by taking advantage of the less-busy time, deadlines can be shortened, and your job can be the focus of the team. Call today for your consultation with the best excavation company in New Jersey.

by Dennis Mikula Jr.

Trench Shoring is Critical for Safe, Compliant Excavations

Trenches may be mostly empty, but they’re full of hazards that can cost workers their lives. Learn what the risks are and what every firm should know about safety.

Trench shoring – the process of steadying trench walls to prevent collapses or cave-ins – is an essential aspect of all excavation work. These walls can be securely propped in several ways, such as hydraulic or pneumatic shores, and may utilize steel, aluminum, or timber shoring material. The materials must be in the best possible condition to ensure worker safety.

While excavating firms have options in how they shore a trench, they’ve got no choice whether they will. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has strict guidelines excavators must follow to ensure the safety of their trench workers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics records that 130 workers died in trenching and excavation between 2011 and 2016.

OSHA regulations require that protective steps be taken with trenches 5 feet or deeper unless the trench has been excavated in entirely stable rock. Those 20 feet or deeper require a protective system designed by professional engineers or based upon tabulated data by the same.

The Basics of Safe Trench Excavation

OSHA boils trench-sense down to four key steps: soil, slope, shore, and shield. Trench walls must be sloped backward to a ratio of 1.5 feet for every foot of depth. They must then be shored with supports and shielded with trench boxes. Trench boxes aren’t intended to shore up the trench, but to protect the workers from any falling objects or collapsing matter.

It’s the employer’s duty to ensure a safe entry and exit route for the trench such as steps, ladders, or ramps. All entry and exit routes must be no further than 25 feet away from any worker in a trench. All materials and equipment must be kept away from the edge of the trench to reduce the risk of workers being struck by falling items. Surcharge loads should be kept a minimum of 2 feet away from the trench edge.

The Importance of Soil in Trench Shoring

Soil analysis is OSHA’s fourth recommended step. This process helps in determining if the ground can support the required degree of trench slope and shoring. A thorough inspection of the trench is required daily before any worker can enter, mainly because soil can be a very unpredictable medium. The site may seem perfectly adequate for a trench when a team starts excavating, but changing soil quality, water content, weather, and on-site activity can all make the trench potentially dangerous.

An inspector will assess the soil and shoring, then look for other risks like standing water or electrical and gas lines. Standing water may not seem very dangerous, but it can gradually erode soil and weaken the integrity of trench walls. The inspector’s findings must be made available on request for an OSHA compliance officer. Trench inspections are further recommended at the start of every shift and especially following strong natural events like heavy rain or winds.

Underpinning the trench may also be necessary during some excavations. This involves either deepening or widening the trench, processes that distribute the load over a wider area or make use of a stronger stratum of soil. The extent to which these measures will be required depends on the site, but the price of ignoring them can be deadly.

The Cost of Non-Compliance

The real cost of ignoring safety is measured in human injuries and lives. Beyond that, the fines for violating OSHA regulations are also significant. They are adjusted annually for inflation and currently run as follows:

• Willful or Repeated Violations – $124,709 each.
• Serious, Other-than-Serious, and Posting Requirements Violations – The maximum penalty is $12,471 per violation.
• Failure to Abate – $12,471 per day.

For more information, companies and the public can refer to OSHA’s 28-page education booklet and call 800-321-OSHA (6742). OSHA provides many other educational trench resources, such as this video guide to soil classification and the process of trenching itself. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health offers prevention tips and invaluable disaster response information should the worst occur. 

July of this year saw a national Safety Stand Down organized by the National Utility Contractors Association. That’s plenty of time to get ready for next year. In the meantime, their website offers more great resources about this critical issue. This 5-step checklist is another excellent go-to when walking around onsite. It can be used to make an informed assessment of trench safety and any steps that need to be taken.

Trust Mikula to be Fully OSHA-Certified

The safety of our team is a priority that’s kept our family firm growing since 1946. We’re happy to share this knowledge with our readers because it’s second nature to us. Mikula Contracting is fully OSHA-certified, and this is a badge of honor that means every member of our team knows the rules and is dedicated to keeping themselves and the people around them safe.

We’re also fully insured throughout the state of New Jersey and offer many other services besides excavation. Get in touch with us at the link below for more information on our excavation experience and commitment to sitewide safety.

Mikula Contracting, Inc., provides commercial and residential customers with a wide range of excavation, demolition, environmental, trucking, and soil materials services. For more information, call 973-772-1684 or email info@mikulainc.com

by Dennis Mikula Jr.

For the Greenest Excavations, Two Heads are Better Than One

Mikula offers eco-friendly services with environmental consultants that work alongside us to make it happen. Learn more about how these specialists help excavators operate safely and responsibly.

At Mikula, we’re always happy to see how seriously our state now takes environmental responsibility. New Jersey alone has an impressive 739 environmental consultancy firms offering their services to protect both the public and excavation companies from harm.

Why are those services so important? They matter because excavation isn’t just big machines digging and making a mess. It’s about care for the delicate balance between the excavation process and the world around us. Environmental consultants are essential personnel in maintaining a healthy worksite and a safe community.

The services of environmental consultants

The areas inspected by environmental consultants are diverse and cover every aspect of the materials involved in excavation, with a focus on how displacement may impact the ecosystem and the surrounding human community now and in the future. Here are some examples of their responsibilities:

• Acting in an advisory capacity for excavators and the public – Environmental legislation is subject to change, especially as the public warms up to being eco-friendly. Excavation firms may not always be diligent in staying up to date with the rules, and the public are often unaware of them. Environmental consultants are well-educated scientifically and technically, while also being well-versed in the latest rules and regulations governing sites. They can advise both construction professionals and customers on how best to handle the excavation at hand.
• Overseeing waste management – Sadly, New Jersey hasn’t always had as much eco-sense as we do today. Waste can take many forms, and there are too many Superfunded sites in our state showing how bad the situation is. Environmental consultants were involved from the beginning of that research, and will be there to ensure these defunct and dangerous sites are excavated and rehabilitated safely. Check out our earlier blog for a more positive take on what happens to construction waste.
• Assessing air quality – Excavation involves stirring up a lot of fine material called particulate matter. Particulates are a form of air pollution created at all stages of construction/excavation. They’re composed of very fine soil, metals, dust, or even acids and other chemicals. Consultants inspect a site to assess the danger of these being inhaled by people or animals in the area by studying potential upwind/downwind distribution factors.
• Environmental Auditing – An environmental audit is a comprehensive appraisal addressing the entire excavation procedure. Is the firm complying with statutory requirements and local/state regulations? Is each member of staff well trained and responsible? How well are all forms of pollution being managed? Consultants impartially answer these questions and more while keeping closely documented records.
• Consultants can offer legal protection – These records can be instrumental in defending or condemning a firm’s reputation if any legal issues arise from an excavation (imagine how important their services will be in scenarios like the one currently involving Duke Energy’s particulate problems).
• Conceptual modelling – This is a way that consultants can help firms investigate the future. A conceptual model takes all factors of an excavation into account and offers predictions on how well or poorly it might go. By considering cause and effect before a dig begins, firms can better spot potential problems and take the best action to avoid them.

A relationship that’s in everyone’s best interests

Environmental consultants are valuable intermediaries between all parties in an excavation. A consultant will often be the shared point of contact between the construction firm, the client and any local/state/national regulatory bodies. What’s more, consultants typically handle the bulk of legislative paperwork that many businesses can find overwhelming.

You should check licenses, reviews, and previous client satisfaction when hiring a consultant to be sure of getting the best. OSHA-certification is one excellent indicator of someone who is trained and educated to a high standard. There are cases when a consultant being presented just isn’t viable. What if a customer or small business requires an excavation but can’t afford the services of an environmental consultant? That’s when a firm like Mikula pays dividends.

Mikula’s commitment to environmental safety

The ideal excavation firm cares as much for the environment as they do about your project. Mikula is proud of our:

• New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection License
• New Jersey Home Improvement Contractors License
• Underground Storage Tank Certified Closure Qualifications
• OSHA-certification

Our previous blog on oil tanks in New Jersey highlighted just how important it is to take the utmost care when excavating. When we’re on the job we’re thinking like environmentalists as well as construction professionals. We’re a generational company built on family who share the core concern of every environmental consultant: how will what we do today impact future generations?

If you’re a commercial or a residential customer considering an excavation, we’d love to help you make it an eco-friendly one. Review our services and get in touch at the details below!

Mikula Contracting, Inc. provides commercial and residential customers with a wide range of excavation, demolition, environmental, trucking and soil materials services. For more information, call 973-772-1684 or email info@mikulainc.com

by Dennis Mikula Jr.

4 Safety Hazards in Excavation Jobs and How to Avoid Them

Don’t put yourself in danger by ignoring excavation and trenching safety procedures

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that the fatality rate for excavation work is 112% higher than the rate for general construction. What’s behind this sobering statistic? OSHA explains that all excavations can put you in danger because they are inherently unstable.

This governmental agency has the authority to fine companies for not following established safety procedure. It recently fined a Michigan-based contractor $454,750 for trench safety and other violations. According to OSHA, the company did not identify hazards and take corrective action when warranted. Here are the top four safety hazards associated with excavation.

1. No protective system

Excavation – especially trenching – creates restricted spaces that must use protective systems to keep workers from potentially fatal situations caused by suffocation, drowning, or being crushed by a cave-in. A competent person should evaluate the soil conditions and make sure that appropriate protective systems are put in place.

OSHA offers this appendix to identify types of soil and rock deposits. This additional appendix offers a graphic summary of the protective systems that should be used.

The National Safety Council writes that protective systems can include:

• Sloping, where the sides of the hole open out from the excavation.
• Benching, where steps are cut into the sides of the trench.
• Shoring, where wales, cross-braces, and uprights are used to support excavation walls.
• Shielding, where trench boxes or shields are placed in the excavation to prevent the sides from caving in.

You can avoid hazards by always confirming that protective systems are in place before entering an excavation site. Competent individuals should be enlisted to inspect the site daily and check for hazardous situations. Excavations should only be kept open for the minimum amount of time needed.

2. Failure to inspect protective systems

Protective systems for excavations are not check-box activities, meaning that there’s no further effort once put in place. The possibility for potential harm from cave-ins or hazardous atmospheres can happen quickly. It’s crucial that a competent person with training in soil analysis inspects the protective systems that have been selected for the excavation site. This individual should know the current OSHA requirements and have the authority to make decisions that will eliminate hazards.

These inspections are ongoing, starting even before construction begins and daily before each shift. It’s important to inspect all excavation protective systems after rain events. OSHA offers this online printable guide for daily inspection of trenches and excavations.

3. Unsafe access or egress

The most frequently cited standard following an OSHA inspection is fall protection on construction sites. Anyone in a trench or excavation site has placed themselves in danger if there’s not an apparent and safe way for access or egress. This can be accomplished with ramps, stairways, or ladders, and it’s a part of the protective system put in place.

OSHA requires a safe means of access and egress for all trenches and excavations that are deeper than four feet. These ladders, ramps, or stairways must be within 25 feet of workers. Ramps can be made of earth, but only if someone can use them by walking in an upright position.

4. Unsafe excavation placement

Excavated material – also known as spoils – that are situated too close to the edge of an excavation or trench pose a serious and potentially fatal hazard. The weight of this material could cause a cave-in. For this reason, OSHA requires that excavated material be placed at least two feet from the edge.

Depending on the type of soil, it may also be necessary to install retainers to keep this material from falling back into the excavation. Because it’s not always possible to maintain the two-foot distance requirement, OSHA requires (in that situation) that the material is moved to a different location.

If you’d like to learn more about commercial and residential excavation services, contact us at Mikla Contracting.

Learn more about our commercial excavation services.

by djm

The Permit Rules New Jersey Sets in Stone

A permit covers customers and contractors

The importance of a permit in excavation and contraction goes beyond due process. It’s a hallmark of respect for proper channels and of a contractor’s care for their reputation, the quality of their work, and the safety of their clients. Here’s how New Jersey does it by the book.

Excavation

Commercial or residential excavation is an intricate process with a lot riding on it. Pipes and electrical materials run underground so precision and expertise are essential. Digging, breaking, tunneling, and depositing of excavated material require an application for a permit from the City Engineer and includes:

• The name and address of the applicant
• The location and dimensions of the excavation
• The purpose of the excavation
• The estimated dates of commencement, completion, and restoration of the excavation, which in no case will exceed a period of six months from date of application
• Such other data as may reasonably be required by the City Engineer

From there, it takes a focused contractor to account for the many responsibilities of excavation like environmental concerns, trench shoring, and waste disposal.

Construction jobs require a full permit and an inspection

The Uniform Construction Code (UCC) sets the rules for which NJ construction projects require a permit. There are several examples of minor work which require a permit, but due to their lesser nature that permit can be obtained at any time during the work. This list of low-level work is typically still subject to inspection and certification of compliance from the UCC.

The UCC provides statewide uniformity in the process of obtaining construction permits. While issued at the municipal level, the procedure is the same no matter what municipality you work in. One way this intent is met is by using standardized forms that all municipalities are required and/or have an option to use.

Bigger jobs require more complex permissions, and an NJ contractor may be looking at a 12-step application process dependent on the nature of the construction work. Every application for a permit requires multiple versions be submitted. The Department of Community Affairs then requires contractors to submit a plan review fee schedule.

Some of those fees are flat, others are project dependent and some are set by the ordinance of the township. An NJ construction permit can be processed in two weeks, which is again partly dependent on the nature of the project. The same document highlights state law as to what documents must accompany a construction permit:

• Two copies of clearly detailed plans
• Construction plans detailing such factors as foundations, floor plans, and elevation
• Cross sections
• Electrical/plumbing/mechanical details

The ordinance in Wyckoff is one example of how the permit process may vary throughout the state. They require storm water management approval before beginning certain residential construction work along with a $500 review fee. Most importantly, they state that any work done without a permit will have fines imposed; up to $2000 in some cases.

Some NJ contracting jobs no longer require a permit

There were some changes as of May this year on the NJ contracting front (you can check the full list of updates here). The new ruling applies to lighter jobs than construction or excavation, but it’s certainly of interest to everyone in the sector.  If this kind of legislative change catches on in New Jersey, construction and excavation may find aspects of their work downgraded to “no permit required.”

On the upside, it does make things quicker for contractors to start their work by sidestepping the permit process. As this article highlights, however, it’s not all great if this becomes a precedent. No permits mean no inspections and without those, contractors aren’t held as accountable.

A permit is more than paperwork: it’s a sanction by the state and a sign that a contractor respects the proper channels. No permits places increased responsibility for work quality squarely onto the shoulders of private and public customers. It will be up to them to check up on the contractor they’ve hired to see if they’re worth the investment. Hiring a licensed, experienced contractor will eliminate that kind of worry.

Fully licensed and over 70 years in the trade

At Mikula Contracting, we’re fully certified and licensed throughout the state of New Jersey and bring decades of industry experience to every job. Best practice is at the heart of our operation and we prove it by OSHA-certifying our team for safety and respecting our community and environment through our EPA license.

As a customer, you deserve to know the contractor you’ve chosen takes their duty to you 100% seriously. We’re here to provide construction and excavation services you can trust!

Mikula Contracting, Inc. provides commercial and residential customers with a wide range of excavation, demolition, environmental, snow removal, trucking and soil materials services. For more information, call 973-772-1684 or email info@mikulainc.com

by djm