Despite the economic benefits new housing or other construction projects can bring to a locale, there’s always a potential downside. Exposed soil and reshaped land are subject to erosion from stormwater runoff. All this water can have a disastrous impact on the environment. If unchecked, the flow into storm drains, sewers and trenches often contain such contaminants as sediment, silt, debris and chemical pollutants.
In waterways around the country, sediment pumped out or running off construction sites remains one of the most significant sources of water pollution. Suspended sediment diminishes water clarity, inhibits the growth of aquatic plants and can deprive fish of important food sources. In addition, phosphorus from construction site water often contributes to explosive algae growth. Like most ecological problems, all of these issues can ripple throughout the environment, disrupting sensitive life cycles and ecosystems.
Accordingly, government agencies at the state and federal level have tight standards for the quality of water pumped from sites during dewatering efforts. Contractors who run afoul of those regulations can find themselves in the midst of costly project delays and fines.
Leaving the Sediment Behind
There are cost-effective ways of accomplishing an environmentally responsible dewatering process. Dewatering bags are a common option to effectively trap silt and sediment while allowing water to escape through the bag’s geotextile material. The sediment-laden water is pumped into ports located on the bags. As the water passes through the bag’s filter fabric, suspended sediment particles are caught in the fabric. The bags fill with sediment over time. After the contents dry out, you can cut the bags open and redistribute the sediment.
GEI Works carries these bags in its Taurus line of dewatering products.
For small-scale projects, a dewatering sock may be the best choice. The Taurus Dewatering Filter Socks are available in three diameters to fit different discharge pipes: 8-inch, 12-inch and 16-inch. As water passes through the sock, sediment and debris stay behind to help keep these materials from leaving the job site.
Contact GEI Works
There are many options for contractors trying to keep sediment and other pollutants out of waterways. Many can be used in concert with one another. But be sure to use a dewatering solution that’s effective for your particular application. The alternative can be a stiff fine or delay in your work: something nobody wants.
Contact the experts at GEI Works for more information on these products. 772-646-0597
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