Page 9 - Arkansas 811 Magazine 2022 Issue 2

the storm recovery process, making hydro excavation even more essential. By using the “soft dig” technology, operators could avoid hitting underground utilities that weren’t easily identifiable in the aftermath of the storm.
Hydro-X was able to dig each hole 7 to 8 feet deep and 20 inches in diameter. Traditionally, an auger would have been used in the process, which is often responsible for utility line strikes further adding to the destruction and unsafe conditions. Today, many utility companies are incorporating hydro excavation as an integral part of their storm recovery plans.
Interested in incorporating hydro excavation into your next utility construction project? Here is some important information to keep in mind.
What is hydro excavation?
Hydro excavation is an environmentally protective process that injects highly pressurized water into a target area followed by extraction of soil and other objects with a customized, industrial strength vacuum. The vacuum transports the debris into a truck mounted tank for safe transport to a designated disposal site.
Why do you need hydro-excavation as part of your emergency response?
Unmarked utilities are one of the greatest threats to any job site. Striking a utility can have catastrophic consequences including significant collateral damage, safety risks, environmental effects, schedule impact, repair costs, community backlash, and property damage. Those risks are even greater during storm recovery.
When should I try it?
It’s best not to wait until an emergency to build hydro excavation into your project plan. Ensuring your utility locates are accurate before beginning any underground construction project can keep people safe, lower your costs, protect the environment, and help ensure your project is completed on time. Non-destructive excavation helps you do just that.
To learn more about HydroExcavators, LLC go to www. hydroexcavators.com.
The Hydro-X team worked round the clock to help with the restoration process and stayed for nearly 90 days continuing to support infrastructure repair work. Their efforts, alongside their customer, helped restore much-needed power to communities impacted by the storm.
2022, Issue 2 Arkansas 811 Magazine • 7