Trench for Sanitary Sewer

This project included drilling and blasting several hundred linear feet for excavation of a trench for sanitary sewer and associated manholes. We worked in conjunction with the client's surveyor and pipe crew to ensure good communication so that proper trench placement and depth were followed. Some challenges of this project were a nearby public roadway as well as hard slate type rock. We ensured the safety of the public by creating a pre-blast plan that followed proper procedures and local guidelines, as well seismic monitoring and careful execution of the work The challenge of blasting the slate type rock was the highly confined nature of trench blasting coupled with the depth of excavation needed (20+ feet). We easily overcome this challenge by adjusting hole spacing, powder factor, and shot timing to ensure good fragmentation and movement of rock to allow for efficient and easy excavation. Overall, this project was a success and demonstrated our ability to safely and effectively conduct trench blasting operations in challenging environments.