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Where Can You Dispose of Hydro Excavation Waste?

Published: June 14th, 2024 | Author: Admin

Using vacuum excavation offers many benefits compared to traditional methods. It's a safer and easier way to excavate during construction, utility and public works projects. However, many wonder about where to dispose of hydro excavation waste — it still poses environmental risks because it can produce toxic substances. Thankfully, you have options.

You'll need to thoroughly review local requirements and the level of potential toxic substances to decide whether to:

• Dispose of the wastewater on-site in a designated and compliant area.
• Dispose of the wastewater off-site, such as in landfills or treatment facilities.
• Treat and recycle the wastewater on-site for reuse.
• Treat and recycle off-site at a facility if contamination is high.

Discover more about each of these options below and see how GapVax can help you complete hydrovac tasks with superior hydro excavation trucks.

Why Dumping On-Site Is Always Preferred

Hydro excavation can produce several kinds of waste, including wastewater, soil and sediments, rocks and debris, and possible contaminants. You can dump some of this waste on-site, which is preferred for various reasons.

Benefits of Dumping On-Site

On-site dumping is a cost-saving alternative for handling hydro excavation waste. Off-site soil dumping is often more expensive and complicated. If you choose off-site dumping, you should note that the costs and process can vary based on job specifics and the type of truck you use.

Disposing of waste at the site can reduce transport costs and streamline the waste management process. This method improves operational efficiency and helps reduce environmental risks. It also helps limit carbon emissions from hauling waste over long distances.

Considerations for Dumping On-Site

Processing and dumping spoils on-site is a practical, viable and often cost-saving measure. However, it comes with a fair share of considerations. 

You should be mindful of your environmental responsibility and any local regulations, which often differ between states. Some areas have different restrictions for the types and volume of waste you can dispose of at the site. You'll also want to implement proper containment measures and strategies to avoid possible environmental hazards.

Understanding Potential Fees for Overweight Loads 

Municipalities and states enforce precise weight limits for trucks. If your hydrovac truck exceeds these limits, it could result in a fine or legal action. You must also be aware of the potential fees associated with overweight loads by state.

Avoiding Overweight Load Fees

As overweight loads can lead to fees and penalties, you must plan your waste transportation carefully.

You should have proper weighing protocols throughout the excavation process. This will ensure you accurately measure the waste before your truck transports it. You can also implement modern technology, such as onboard weight systems, to avoid potential overweight loads. These allow you to monitor the waste's weight in real time. Therefore, you can make adjustments during the excavation and waste-dumping process.

Considering Recycling and Dump Facilities 

Recycling some waste on-site is possible, which aligns with many sustainability goals. However, you may sometimes need to use off-site recycling and dump facilities to complete hydrovac waste recycling. 

Consider these factors when choosing a recycling or dump facility:

• Local environmental compliance: Ensure your chosen facility adheres to local environmental regulations.
• Distance from the excavation site: Save on transport and time expenses and reduce your carbon footprint by traveling shorter distances.
• Facility size and capabilities: Check that the facility can accommodate the volume and composition of the waste you need to dispose of.

Using On-Site Recycling Systems

Depending on the job specifications and budget, sites can house hydro excavation recycling systems on or near the site. This offers a convenient and sustainable way to capture and recycle wastewater for reuse. It also lets you collect other debris in the system, which is dried and deposited via conveyor belts. Using an on-site hydrovac waste recycling process helps save time and money.

Our Solutions for Your Hydro Excavation Waste Disposal

At GapVax, we offer a range of specialized product options to help you get the job done. We also provide customization through our unique building process, helping you achieve the most suitable solution possible.

GapVax Low-Weight VHX Hydro Excavator

An ideal solution for your vacuum excavation is our VHX hydro excavator, especially for heavy loads. It can remain road-legal with a full load and offers reliable wet and dry vacuum filtration to better adapt to site job requirements. 

The VHX series has a payload of 15,000 pounds and a low profile of 12 feet and 2 inches. Further specifications of our excavator, designed by the operator for the operator, include:

• 7 cubic yards in usable debris
• Full-tilting debris body for efficient unloading
• 8-inch tube-in-tube boom with a 22-inch reach
• 750-gallon water storage tank
• 13 GPM pumping ability
• 3,000 PSI water system

You can also include add-ons, such as the following: 

• Heated cabinet: Ideal for work during cold winter months.
• 200 CFM air compressor system: Ensures you can continue working even if water is unavailable or ideal for the task.

To schedule a demo, ask questions or get further insights on pricing and specifications, complete our VHX series information request form, and we'll get back to you.

Discover GapVax Hydro Excavation Products Today

GapVax is a family-owned and multi-generational business with a long-standing history of serving our communities and fellow operators. We pride ourselves on building and customizing the highest quality hydrovac trucks, providing you with a reliable way to complete necessary hydrovac tasks.

At GapVax, we consider our clients part of the family and make it our mission to meet industry standards and ensure our service exceeds your expectations. We understand our clients' needs and build from an operator's perspective, which is why we focus on providing long-lasting equipment that's straightforward to use and maintain.

We'd love to hear from you and assist you with a VHX hydro excavator quote or talk about your needs. Don't hesitate to contact us today and see how we can help you.

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