The Role of Test Pit Excavation and Soil Testing in Environmental Remediation
Before getting started with a construction project or any type of environmental cleanup, you need to know if there are any special considerations in the soil that need to be addressed. While the hope is that the site is clean and safe, there could be contamination in the soil requiring specialized services to ensure safety.
The reality is that if soil or groundwater is contaminated, then it poses serious health and safety risks to everyone in the area. Not only are people impacted by these issues, but there are also environmental concerns that need to be addressed.
The good news is that it’s possible to identify these issues early when you are working with the right New Jersey excavation contractor and environmental consultant. Our team is here to help with site investigations, test pit excavation, and soil testing. The goal is to evaluate the quality of the soil, then put proactive measures in place, if necessary, in order to avoid delays or issues when construction starts.
In this article, we are taking a closer look at what environmental remediation is and why test pits and soil testing are necessary at times.
What Is Environmental Remediation?
To put it simply, environmental remediation is the process of cleaning up polluted soil, water, or air. These contaminants impact the overall safety of the area. Not only is environmental remediation the right thing to do to protect the community and environment, but there are also regulations in place that require you to follow these practices.
Some of the most common reasons why you might need remediation before construction projects include industrial activity, underground tanks that are leaking, or chemical spills.
Ultimately, the goal is to protect the health of everyone in the area, including both residents and crew members. At the same time, it’s possible to restore the ecosystem and create the conditions for the land to be developed safely.
Test Pit Excavation Overview
If test pits are necessary, then you’ll need to hire a New Jersey excavation contractor. The process involves small-scale digging so that we can take a closer look at what is happening below the surface level. We’ll bring in excavation equipment, such as backhoes, to make it easy and accessible.
There are various things that can be inspected with test pit excavation. For example, industry experts will be able to see the layers of soil and any contaminants that might be present.
Other inspection points include the condition of the soil overall, water table levels, and more. This process is also important for underground utilities, protecting current lines and preparing for installation if new lines are needed.
In many situations, test pit excavation is the first step that needs to happen before major work starts for construction projects.
Understanding Soil Testing
When the test pits are excavated, it allows experts to collect soil samples from the different layers within the pit. These samples are tested in a laboratory setting to see if there are any contaminants or issues that need to be addressed. Your testing team will be looking for common contaminants such as chemicals, oil, or metals.
Soil testing also involves processes to check the properties of the soil, including the type, compaction, moisture content, and drainage. All of these factors affect the successful outcome of the construction project.
The results of these soil tests will guide your New Jersey excavation contractor in planning the proper site preparation activities to minimize complications or issues in the future.
How Test Pit Excavation and Soil Testing Work Together
Both test pit excavation and soil testing go hand in hand. If you need to have soil testing done, then the pit excavation is the preparatory step so that you can access the deep layers of soil. This excavation process is helpful because it provides a visual inspection of the soil so that you can find and address any problem areas that need to be taken care of. Finding an excavation contractor that works well with environmental firms can help make the process move along more quickly and seamlessly.
Our goal is to confirm what is in the ground on your work site. We’ll work with environmental experts to find chemical and physical properties that might impact construction, safety, and environmental factors. Test pit excavation and soil testing are the perfect combination to give you a complete picture of the site conditions.
Why Test Pit Excavation and Soil Testing Are Vital for Effective Remediation
There’s no question that you need both test pit excavation and soil testing in order to have a successful outcome with your remediation project. In order to plan an effective remediation, we need to determine both the scope and severity of the contamination. Then, we can create a targeted plan that will achieve the desired outcomes.
Rest assured knowing that we always meet both state and federal regulations. Also, we take a proactive approach to protect workers, nearby communities, and the environment from toxic exposure.
Need the Help of a New Jersey Contractor You Can Trust?
If you are looking for a local New Jersey excavation contractor, then make sure to hire a team that has experience in environmental site work. Mikula is here to help every step of the way. We’ve been working in the local community for many years and understand the unique soil and groundwater conditions. Contact us today to learn more.
Why You Need a Trusted Professional to Perform Soil Remediation
It can be frustrating to discover that you have contaminated soil that requires treatment. Not only is environmental remediation necessary to protect your health and the environment but you may be required to address the issue.
What is the best way to move forward? You might be searching online for information about DIY soil remediation. But the truth is that this type of project usually needs to be handled by the experts.
The reality is that if mistakes are made during the remediation process, it can result in an incomplete project. The pollutants will continue to cause environmental harm that can get worse over time. Additionally, you don’t want to deal with the possible legal issues if the project is managed incorrectly.
So, instead of attempting a DIY soil remediation, the best solution is to call a team of trusted professionals for assistance. The contractors will bring the best knowledge and tools to ensure that the job is completed quickly and effectively.
Is DIY Soil Remediation Possible?
The most important thing that you need to understand about soil remediation is that this process can be quite technical because of the nature of the services that need to be completed. Not only is specialized equipment required, but certain safety processes must be implemented to avoid cross-contamination and complications.
If you attempt DIY soil remediation, then it’s likely that these efforts will be ineffective or even make the contamination worse. Additionally, you must consider the risk of exposing yourself to hazardous materials without proper safety equipment and training.
Most homeowners don’t have the training or expertise to know how to effectively handle soil remediation. They likely don’t understand the extent of the problems or the best way to clean up the soil effectively. Additionally, environmental firms will usually require the project to be handled by professionals once contamination in the soil is confirmed.
One of the biggest reasons why you shouldn’t attempt DIY soil remediation is that if the project is handled improperly, then it can result in expensive fines and legal issues. All environmental regulations must be followed, and homeowners often don’t understand these requirements. DIY soil remediation might seem like a solution to save money, but the reality is that this approach can often cost more money in the future: you will need to pay the fines and still pay the cost of professional soil remediation services.
The Benefits of Working with a Trusted Professional for Soil Remediation
There’s no doubt that hiring a professional team to remove the contamination is your best choice. It’s worth the investment when you consider all of the benefits you will receive from these services. Here are just a few reasons why it makes sense to pay for professional soil remediation.
Expert Knowledge and Assessment
When an expert team is on the job, they understand the most effective strategies – which depend on the type of soil and contaminants involved. Advanced testing methods can be implemented to determine the ideal soil remediation techniques. These services ensure that all types of contamination are addressed, including heavy metals, petroleum products, and more.
Each situation is unique, which is why there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for every project. You need a team of experts to evaluate your situation and offer customized recommendations.
Cost-Effective
Yes, it might seem like the upfront costs are higher for professional services than for DIY soil remediation. But the reality is that these expert services are an undeniable benefit because of the costly mistakes that you can avoid in the future.
When a pro team is on the job, they complete the remediation as quickly and effectively as possible. This approach helps to reduce the risk of delays and minimize downtime for the project. Plus, you can rest assured knowing that you are avoiding potential fines and legal expenses that can add up if the local authorities step in because of improper remediation.
Compliance with Environmental Regulations
There are many environmental regulations that must be addressed, including local, state, and federal rules. An experienced soil remediation team holds the responsibility to ensure that all of these compliance factors are handled throughout the remediation process.
The contractors and environmental firms not only ensure that the process of removing contaminants is in alignment with regulations, but they also handle the necessary permits. Additionally, a professional team understands the importance of documenting every step of the process to prove compliance if needed. When you are following necessary compliance, it helps to reduce your legal liabilities in the situation.
Specialized Equipment and Resources
Your professional soil remediation team will bring the specialized equipment necessary to get the job done right. This equipment uses modern technology, with properly trained crew members completing the work. When specialized equipment is used, it ensures a thorough cleanup – which can’t be achieved with DIY soil remediation.
Safety measures are used every step of the way. Also, the site is tested at the end of the project to confirm a successful outcome.
Proper Use of Remediation Techniques
Depending on the type of contamination, methods might include the use of thermal treatment and/or chemical treatment for the process of removing unwanted materials and protecting human health at the same time. Each client receives a customized remediation plan to ensure the best results possible.
Remediate Your Soil the Right Way with Professional Assistance
When soil remediation is necessary, then you need to partner with an excavation crew and environmental firm to complete the job. Investing in professional services is an excellent way to protect your property value and achieve a successful outcome.
Our team at Mikula can do the digging, take care of waste disposal, and bring in new fill dirt, working side-by-side with the environmental firms that are handling the soil remediation. Contact us to learn more about the ways that we can help with soil remediation.
An Environmental Firm's Role in the Soil Remediation Process
When soil contamination happens, it can be a serious problem. Whether you are dealing with chemicals, heavy metals, or harmful substances, it’s essential to clean up the contamination as quickly as possible. Not only does polluted soil impact the environment, but it can have a negative toll on animal and human health in the area.
Our team at Mikula offers oil tank removal, soil remediation, and other related services, and we are experienced in working closely with environmental firms to ensure that the proper protocols are followed at all times.
Our goal is to make sure that everything is done safely, based on the rules set by government agencies. We always follow proper protocols to protect everyone in the area and ensure everything is done right the first time.
What Does an Environmental Firm Do?
When you hire an environmental firm to work alongside your contractor, you can be confident in knowing that you have access to the best remediation strategies and technologies to clean up contaminated soil. They start with a thorough site assessment to determine the contamination levels and the severity of the issues.
Next, it’s time to develop a remediation plan. Part of this plan may include necessary services such as oil tank removal and soil remediation, which Mikula can help with. We work hand-in-hand with the environmental firm to ensure success every step of the way. Each situation is unique, which is why there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for your project.
We always follow the proper safety protocols and ensure that our crews maintain compliance every step of the way. We are familiar with the applicable environmental regulations to protect the site and surrounding areas. The environmental firms we work with are proactive about providing detailed reporting and documentation of this remediation process.
When Does an Environmental Firm Get Involved in the Soil Remediation Process?
How do you know when it’s time to call an environmental firm for help with your soil remediation? Typically, these services are initiated if testing determines that the soil is contaminated, the environmental firm would handle the testing and provide the details of how much soil is suspected to be contaminated and work with your contractor to devise a plan for remediation. Additionally, if you are already in the process of removing your oil tank and notice a leak you’ll need to loop in an environmental firm
The best thing you can do is call an environmental firm right away. The earlier the team is involved, the better the potential outcome in the future. Early involvement ensures regulatory compliance as well as proper planning to achieve an optimal outcome.
Sometimes, soil remediation services are called in during construction projects. For example, if the construction crew suspects that the soil is contaminated with heavy metals, chemicals, or other hazardous materials, then construction might be paused to allow for soil remediation methods– a decision that may be made by the firm and executed by the contractor.
When you involve an environmental firm in the initial stages of your project, it helps to reduce the risk of costly details and even legal issues later on.
How Your Contractor and Environmental Firm Should Work Together
This coordinated approach is essential to take care of the contaminated areas and also allow the construction to move forward as planned.
In the majority of situations, the environmental firm will be involved with the remediation process, offering expertise and oversight for the project as the contractor completes the contracted work and replaces the dirt following the successful completion of the remediation. It’s a multi-part approach that will ensure safety and compliance every step of the way.
Finally, the contractor and environmental firm maintain regular check-ins throughout the project to make sure the entire team is following proper protocols. Adjustments are made to the initial plans on an as-needed basis as new information is discovered throughout the course of the project.
Our team at Mikula is here to help, offering clear communication with all relevant providers to minimize problems and project delays. When Mikula is on the job, you can have confidence in the services you are receiving. We often work with environmental firms and provide the complementary services that are needed for a successful outcome.
Ensure Your Soil Remediation Project Goes Smoothly
When you are completing soil remediation projects, there are several things that you can do to reduce the risk of delays and setbacks as work progresses. You need to be sure that you are working with the right experts and contractors who have previous experience with similar projects.
Make sure that all of your contractors, consultants, and environmental specialists are maintaining clear and constant communication and working together to complete the project. Contaminated remediation projects need to be monitored closely, with adjustments being made based on field conditions and test results.
Ensure your contractors offer a full range of services depending on the unique needs of your project and site. They can help with everything from taking care of the permeable reactive barrier to managing the solidification and stabilization of the soil. Mikula can be an integral part of this process, offering our expertise that goes hand-in-hand with the environmental services that you need.
When you are in need of soil remediation services, then our team at Mikula is here to help. We offer full-service solutions to clean up your property and ensure safety now and in the future. Contact us to learn more.
What is Next for Your Job Site If There is Soil Contamination?
It’s not ideal if you are getting started with a construction project and find out that soil remediation services are necessary. Even if it is only a small amount, the hazardous materials in the soil can pose a threat to both people and the environment. The best thing you can do is take a proactive approach to cleaning the contaminated area so that you can avoid bigger (and more expensive) problems in the future.
The reality is that soil contamination can be a serious issue. Not only are there health concerns, but it can also result in costly delays for your construction project. So, you need an experienced team to help with the necessary steps to clean everything properly. Whenever possible, early detection and prompt action are crucial to manage costs and improve the long-term outlook.
If you need soil remediation services, then our team at Mikula is here to assist. We offer full-service solutions by partnering with environmental firms to clean up your site and prepare the land for upcoming construction and other projects. Here are some of the steps to take if your job site has contaminated soil, and how our soil remediation services can help.
What Does It Mean to Have Contaminated Soil?
If you have soil contamination, then it means that there are harmful substances within the ground. Soil testing looks for different types of contaminants, and also checks the level of contamination. While it’s normal to have a bit of contamination in all soil, your property needs to meet regulatory standards so the contaminants don’t exceed the natural levels.
Some of the most common types of soil contaminants include:
- Chemicals
- Heavy Metals
- Pesticides
- Petroleum Products
Soil contamination can originate from many different sources. Some of the most common sources of contamination include:
- Improper waste disposal
- Industrial activities
- Underground storage tanks that are leaking
- Agricultural runoff
- Dumping
What to Do If Your Soil is Contaminated
Safety is always the priority when you determine that the soil is contaminated. If the soil testing results come back positive, then you will likely have to stop construction immediately. Soil remediation services are necessary before resuming construction so that you can be sure that the workers and environment are being protected at all times.
Make sure to seek expert guidance for your soil remediation project. Our experienced team works with premier environmental firms who will come to the site to assess the level of contamination in the soil or groundwater. We work with the local regulatory agency to obtain the necessary permits and ensure proper protocols are followed every step of the way.
Usually, a thorough investigation is needed, including a comprehensive site assessment, so we understand the extent of the contamination. Then, we can use this information to design your personalized remediation plan that will remove the contaminants and restore the safety of your site.
How to Prepare Your Job Site for What is Next
A variety of soil remediation services can be used to clean up the site in the most effective way. Containment is an important step to prevent the contamination from spreading to nearby areas. Preventing further spread ensures safety and saves you money at the same time.
We always put safety first. The workers on site are supplied with personal protective equipment and proper training to handle the situation. It’s important to stay strict with these protocols in order to protect the health and wellness of everyone on site.
Several logistics need to be handled to prepare the site for upcoming remediation activities. For example, we will bring in the necessary equipment and determine proper disposal facilities depending on the type of contamination that we are dealing with.
Don’t Let Contaminated Soil Go Unnoticed
A proactive approach can help you minimize soil contamination problems. While soil remediation services are always available, the best solution is to prevent the contamination from happening in the first place. Also, if you catch potential contamination issues in the early stages it allows you to get started with early intervention as quickly as possible.
Pay attention to any potential signs of contamination, such as soil discoloration, unusual odors, or vegetation that is stressed or dying. If something looks unusual, then you should do testing or look into the situation to see what is happening.
Additionally, proactive testing can be done before construction begins. If your property is in an area with a history of industrial activity, then it’s even more important to make sure that you are proactive about soil testing to prevent delays in the project.
Even though soil testing and soil remediation services seem like an extra step that you would like to avoid, the truth is that addressing these issues early will give you peace of mind.
Call the Experts for Soil Remediation Services
Do you need soil remediation services? Then Mikula is the team to call. We’ve been serving the local community for many years and have extensive experience with soil remediation, soil washing, and more. We understand these biological processes and can take care of your issues effectively. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn more about the full range of services that we offer.
What Happens After a Soil Analysis on Your Construction Site?
A soil test is something that most property owners don’t think about, but the reality is that this testing is often a critical step before a construction project. Soil analysis determines the next steps in the construction process, which is why it can impact planning, timelines, safety, and costs. Experienced excavation contractors understand the importance of evaluating soil quality before moving forward with any project.
At Mikula, our team pays attention to the details and prioritizes quality every step of the way. When you hire us for excavation and other related construction projects, by connecting you with the right company for soil testing based on the results we’ll be able to identify whether soil remediation is necessary.
The hope is that the tests will come back with good news, giving us the green light that we can move forward with the project. But there are times when the test results show that remediation is necessary. Having this information at the beginning of the project is the best way to manage expenses and stick to the timeline as much as possible.
What is a Soil Analysis?
A soil analysis is a detailed inspection of all properties, including soil composition, stability, potential contamination, shrinkage limit, moisture content, and whether the soil is suitable for a planned construction project. When a building is being placed on the site, it’s essential to make sure that the soil will be able to support this structure. If there are unaddressed problems with the soil, then it could result in a shifting foundation and serious damage to the building.
Just because soil testing for construction shows potential concerns doesn’t necessarily mean that you won’t be able to move forward with the construction process. Instead, there might be a few soil remediation steps that need to be followed to ensure the site is ready and suitable for construction.
Soil analysis involves multiple steps. First, the geotechnical engineers complete a site investigation. They inspect the soil, any potential hazards, and also consider whether the water table might interfere with construction. Additionally, it is necessary to collect soil samples that are taken back to the lab to perform more in-depth testing to evaluate soil composition.
The most common types of tests that are performed include:
- Geotechnical tests, such as shear strength, compaction, and bearing capacity;
- Environmental tests to detect if hazardous materials are present in the soil; and
- Chemical tests to understand the soil nutrient content and pH levels.
What Happens If Your Soil Comes Back Normal?
Good news! It’s a positive outcome if the soil testing comes back with normal results. There is no need for soil remediation, which means that you can move forward with construction as planned. The selected materials and the way the foundation is designed match the soil conditions.
The benefit of a “normal” soil analysis is that you can streamline the construction project and timelines. Normal soil avoids delays due to additional testing and soil remediation steps.
You will be saving both time and money if your soil tests are normal!
Additionally, normal soil testing results give you the peace of mind that your building is on good ground. You can move forward with the project in full confidence, knowing that the site you have selected is suitable for your plans.
What Happens If Your Soil Comes Back as Contaminated?
If the results come back showing that the soil is contaminated, then a few extra steps need to be followed before you move forward with construction. We’ll start with a risk assessment to determine potential hazards, including construction concerns, health risks, and environmental concerns.
But just because your soil is contaminated doesn’t mean that you need to cancel the construction project. Instead, you will need to take care of soil remediation first before deciding on the next steps.
Soil remediation options might include:
- Removing the soil and replacing it with higher quality soil;
- Treatment on-site, such as chemical oxidation or bioremediation; and/or
- Capping or containment.
Keep in mind that there are specific regulatory requirements that must be addressed for soil remediation on the construction site. Your excavation contractor should ensure that you comply with all local and federal regulations regarding the way the soil is handled, managed, and treated.
One of the biggest drawbacks of contaminated soil is that you can expect significant project delays and high costs for soil remediation. So, you will need to make adjustments to the construction timeline and your budget. But once you have completed soil remediation successfully, then you will likely be able to move forward with the project as planned.
Consult With an Experienced New Jersey Excavation Contractor
When you work with an experienced excavation contractor, you have access to the knowledge and resources of a professional team. We can both help with the soil remediation process and also offer the best suggestions for effective and cost-effective soil remediation or foundation adjustments.
Safety is always our top priority, which is why we are proactive about testing whenever it is needed. We offer peace of mind, so you know that your construction project can be completed successfully. For more information about residential and commercial environmental cleanup, reach out to our experienced team at Mikula. We’re here to help!