First Environmental

Vacuuming Solids: Key Insights

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 18:39:44 GMT

Industrial cleaning isn’t always about liquids. Sometimes it’s about heavy, stubborn solids, sludge, sand, gravel, powders that demand precision, power, and skill. That’s where vacuum trucks come in. They’re not just machines; they’re the heartbeat of modern industrial cleanup.

Understanding What Vac Trucks Can Do

At first glance, a vacuum truck looks simple. A massive tank, long hoses, loud motors. But inside that system lies an intricate combination of suction power, filtration, and pressure differentials designed to handle everything from fine dust to wet debris.

These trucks can vacuum, transport, and offload solids, semi-solids, and liquids safely and efficiently. Some even handle hazardous materials. The secret is knowing what kind of material you’re dealing with and matching it with the right vacuum configuration.

Did You Know? Industrial vac trucks can generate up to 28 inches of mercury (Hg) in vacuum pressure—enough suction to lift dense slurries and even compacted soil when configured correctly.

Not All Materials Behave the Same

Powders flow differently than sludge. Granular solids may clog hoses if moisture content changes. Each job requires different designs, hose lengths, and filtration systems. Experienced operators adjust these variables constantly, reading material flow by sound and resistance through the hose.

Pro Tip: When handling dry materials, keep your hose runs as short and straight as possible. Every bend or vertical rise reduces suction efficiency and increases wear on the equipment.

The Art of Safe Material Handling

Safety comes first. Solids can carry unseen hazards—dust inhalation, chemical residue, even combustible properties. Before vacuuming, a proper hazard assessment determines what protective gear and containment systems are required.

Crews should always check for pressure buildup, inspect hoses for damage, and ensure grounding cables are secure to prevent static discharge. That level of awareness separates seasoned professionals from beginners.

Did You Know? Fine dust particles, when airborne, can become explosive in confined areas. Even food-grade powders like sugar or flour have caused industrial fires under the right conditions.

Choosing the Right Equipment

Vacuum trucks aren’t one-size-fits-all.

Liquid Vac Units handle thin fluids and slurries.
Dry Vac Units tackle powders, dust, or solid debris.
Combination Units switch between both and are perfect for facilities with changing cleanup needs.

At First Environmental , teams use high-powered vacuum trucks with customizable setups to safely remove and transport a wide range of industrial materials—whether wet, dry, or hazardous.

Pro Tip: Always verify your provider’s vacuum capacity and disposal methods before starting a project. The wrong equipment or poor disposal process can turn a simple cleanup into a costly mess.

Efficiency Without Shortcuts

A well-run vacuum job saves time and prevents downtime, but rushing creates risk. The best operators maintain a rhythm—steady suction, measured progress, clear communication. They coordinate each move with spotters and supervisors to keep everyone safe.

When done right, solid vacuuming looks almost effortless. But it takes years of practice, attention to detail, and the right equipment to make it seem that way.

Handling industrial solids safely and efficiently requires more than horsepower—it requires expertise, precision, and a commitment to doing things the right way.

At First Environmental , our certified crews and advanced vac trucks handle every material with care, from fine powders to dense sludge. We keep your facility clean, compliant, and safe—every single time.

Contact us today to schedule vacuum truck services or request a custom cleanup plan for your facility.

Combustible Dust Management: Protecting Your Facility with Expertise

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 14:37:31 GMT

When most people think about workplace hazards, they picture large, dramatic incidents—perhaps something involving heavy machinery or chemical spills. But did you know that one of the most dangerous risks in industrial facilities is something as seemingly innocuous as dust? Combustible dust is a silent threat that can lead to catastrophic consequences if not properly managed.

If your facility generates even a small amount of combustible dust, it’s time to take its management seriously. First Environmental specializes in dust management services to help keep your workplace compliant, safe, and efficient.

What Is Combustible Dust?

Combustible dust refers to fine particles that can ignite when suspended in air under certain conditions. These particles might come from wood, metals, food products, chemicals, or even textiles. While individual particles might seem insignificant, when dispersed in the air, they can create a highly flammable cloud that’s prone to explosions.

Did you know?

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), industries like manufacturing and agriculture experience hundreds of combustible dust incidents every year.
A combustible dust explosion only requires five factors—the infamous "dust explosion pentagon": fuel (the dust), ignition source (like sparks or heat), dispersion (airborne dust particles), confinement, and oxygen.

These seemingly simple conditions can lead to devastating consequences. Just imagine—something as small as static electricity could ignite an entire cloud of suspended combustible dust in your facility.

Why Is Combustible Dust Management Critical?

The consequences of neglecting this risk go far beyond safety violations. Improper combustible dust management can result in explosions, injuries, lost productivity, costly repairs, reputational damage, and even fatalities.

Key Reasons to Prioritize Dust Control:

Workplace Safety

Combustible dust explosions are as dangerous as they sound. The force from even a small-scale explosion can destroy equipment, injury employees, and claim lives. A robust dust management system safeguards your team and facility.

Regulatory Compliance

Authorities like OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and NFPA have strict standards for combustible dust management. Failure to comply can result in hefty fines, shutdowns, or legal consequences.

Operational Efficiency

A clean facility is an efficient one. Dust accumulation can hamper equipment performance and lead to unexpected downtime. Managing it proactively helps maintain peak productivity at your workplace.

Reputation Management

Customers, partners, and employees trust businesses that value safety and responsibility. Proper dust management shows that you care about the well-being of your people and your community.

Common Industries Affected by Combustible Dust

If you’re wondering whether your facility might be at risk, here are some industries that frequently encounter combustible dust challenges:

Food production (especially sugar, grain, or flour processing plants)
Metalworking (dust from aluminum, magnesium, or other materials is highly flammable)
Woodworking (sawdust is a significant hazard)
Textiles (fibrous dust from fabrics can ignite easily)
Pharmaceuticals (powdered ingredients often create combustible conditions)
Chemical processing

It pays to stay vigilant—dust explosions have been documented across various industries, even in seemingly low-risk areas.

Did you know?

One of the most infamous dust explosions occurred in 2008 at a sugar refinery in Georgia. The explosion, triggered by sugar dust, resulted in fatalities, injuries, and major damage, highlighting the importance of proactive dust management.

How First Environmental Helps You Stay Safe

Managing combustible dust may sound daunting, but that’s where experts like First Environmental step in to make your life easier. We have both the experience and the tools to tackle challenging dust scenarios effectively.

Comprehensive Dust Management Services:

Thorough Assessments

Our team begins by evaluating your facility to identify high-risk areas prone to dust accumulation. This step ensures we understand the unique challenges your business faces.

Specialized Cleaning Equipment

From vacuum trucks to high-powered air-moving units, we employ equipment designed to handle all kinds of dust scenarios. Our powerful tools remove dust from hard-to-reach areas like ductwork, baghouses, and elevated surfaces.

Highly Trained Teams

Every team member at First Environmental is trained to work safely and efficiently. We use advanced tools while adhering to strict safety protocols, including working at heights and in confined spaces.

Custom Solutions

No two facilities are the same. Whether you’re dealing with combustible dust in ductwork, production equipment, or horizontal surfaces, our approach is tailored to your specific needs.

Focus on Prevention

Beyond cleaning, we help you establish preventative measures to keep dust from accumulating in the first place. With our ongoing support, you’ll maintain compliance and safety over the long term.

Why Choose First Environmental?

We’re not just here to do the job—we’re here to do it the right way. Our team takes pride in being reliable, proactive problem-solvers who prioritize your business’s safety and efficiency.

Did you know?

First Enivronmental’s disciplined teams conduct projects around the clock, working smart and safe to minimize downtime for your operations.
Our employees are trained in advanced safety measures, including fall protection, the use of respirators, and operating within hazardous environments like confined spaces.

Taking the First Step Toward Safer Operations

Combustible dust may be an invisible threat but ignoring it isn’t an option. The good news is, you don’t have to deal with it alone.

By partnering with First Environmental, you gain access to expert services, cutting-edge equipment, and a dedicated team that truly cares about keeping your workplace safe. From comprehensive industrial cleaning to everyday preventative measures, we’re here to ensure that combustible dust never becomes a risk for your facility.

Managing Combustible Dust

Managing combustible dust isn’t just about meeting regulatory standards—it’s about protecting your people, your property, and your business’s reputation. When you’re ready to address this challenge head-on, First Environmental is just a phone call away.

No matter how complex your facility’s needs might be, you can trust us to get the job done right—every single time. Give us a call today and see how we can help safeguard your workplace from combustible dust risks!

Working Safe in Industrial Settings Takes Effort

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 20:18:07 GMT

It takes a team that is committed to operate safely at all times. It requires training, it requires experience, and it requires effort. It cannot be done if any of these things are missing.

The Importance of Safety Across Industries

Our work takes us to various locations, including paper mills, chemical plants, food processing facilities, heavy manufacturing, and more. With such a variety of industries, every work setting is different, and that means we need to be aware of our surroundings and potential hazards. Ensuring industrial safety in these environments is critical—not just for protecting our team, but also for safeguarding our clients’ facilities and operations.

Many of our customers provide site-safety orientations, training on hazards they know are present and need to be communicated in advance. Examples include areas with electricity risks, flammable vapors, hazardous chemicals, rail, robotics, process safety, confined space safety , and various areas that require lockout/tagout procedures. Clear communication and vigilance help us adapt to these challenges and execute our work effectively.

The Role of Training, Experience, and Effort in Workplace Safety

We train our employees for each of these situations—and many more. Whether working at heights, operating heavy machinery, or navigating confined space safety protocols, our goal is to ensure every team member is equipped to handle the specific challenges of industrial workplaces. This preparation includes comprehensive training in handling chemicals, machinery operations, respirators/supplied air systems, lifts, and other essential equipment or practices needed in complex environments.

Our compliance team leads the effort to make sure we are always aligned with industrial safety standards. But for us, safety is more than regulatory compliance—it’s an integral part of our team's culture. Safety is about taking care of your teammates, maintaining a focus on preparation and behavior, and fostering a culture of responsibility and trust. From the moment we step onto a job site, safety becomes everyone’s responsibility.

Meeting Industry-Specific Safety Standards

Numerous customers have required safety and site-safety modules that our team completes before starting a project. These modules are critical for ensuring expertise across various domains related to industrial safety . Our annual training schedule ensures that every worker is competent, qualified, and prepared for the task at hand.

Target areas for specific projects include training in:

OSHA/MSHA and HAZWOPER
Toxic substances (asbestos, lead)
Fire prevention/static electricity prevention
Slips, trips, and falls awareness
Fall protection equipment
Defensive driving

Planned modules such as these are designed specifically to address the realities of safe industrial operations. This approach ensures we are ready to perform our work safely, no matter how specialized the site requirements may be.

Supporting a Culture of Safety

Our ultimate goal is to maintain our status as the most desired industrial cleaning contractors in the Southeast. To achieve this, industrial safety is paramount. Through robust training programs, adherence to strict protocols, and a focus on teamwork, we pledge to provide safety, security, and confidence to our clients. This commitment drives everything we do—keeping our clients’ facilities safe and delivering exceptional outcomes every time.

By prioritizing safety, we build strong client relationships and set the standard for the industry. Whether it's managing confined space safety or addressing an unexpected hazard, we remain steadfast in our dedication to protecting our people and the environments we serve.

What to Look for in an Industrial Cleaning Company

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 21:21:25 GMT

When evaluating an industrial cleaning company, it is critical to have a good understanding of your project with respect to timing, scope, flow and efficiency, and especially what you want to see happen, as well as budget. The industrial cleaning contractor will ask questions to determine the best approach to your needs, specifically what is clean, sharing what equipment will do the job best, scheduling, and working to fit the down-time window. As you evaluate an industrial cleaning company, you will want to understand that they can get the job done, the way you want, safely, timely and within your budget.

Importance of Choosing the Right Industrial Cleaning Company

First Environmental puts experienced personnel in front of new projects to help our clients, and potential customers figure out approach and pricing beforehand. Our team has real-world experience with our equipment, its’ capabilities, how to stage a project to get the most efficiency within a certain time frame, choosing the number of guys and evaluating for safe operations. The number of hours to get a job done can greatly influence pricing. Do you have a short window and need lots of hands and equipment on-site to get the job done fast? This increases the cost, but gets you up and running faster. Can you do this project on a specific schedule, maybe weekends, maybe night shift, and maybe extended over several weeks? Either way, you know what your production value is, and can find an industrial cleaning company that adjusts to you, not the other way around.

Utilizing the Right Equipment for Efficiency

As an environmental cleaning contractor, First Environmental can also provide options for disposal management of residual materials from your clean-up. Options for roll off boxes, vacuum boxes, frac tanks and other container solutions can be a critical part of the job. Having the right transportation equipment and experience with compliance and paperwork is also valuable when providing environmental solutions to our clients.

Experienced Team of Project Managers and Industry Experts

Our team is comprised of project managers, supervisors, and industry experts that have been in the trenches/tanks and learned by doing. Our operations logistic support is similar, being responsive to field needs that occur on every project. Prior to, or during any project, they are ready to manage equipment needs, disposal management, labor resources and changes that take place on the job. We have the knowledge and relationships to make it happen.

Mission: Solving Customer Problems and Ensuring Satisfaction

The right result for a project involves bringing these pieces together in a simple to manage process, and then delivering consistently.

As one of the leading industrial cleaning companies , First Environmental provides top-notch services tailored to meet the unique needs of businesses across various industry sectors.

Our mission: Exist for our Customers by Fixing Their Problem and Making Them Happy.

Our goal: To be the most desired industrial cleaning service.

Heavy Metal Dust Abatement Services

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 19:12:24 GMT

Health Risks of Heavy Metal Dust

Heavy metal dust (HMD) and its abatement is required in a few places that have hazardous and nonhazardous metals within their service mix. Aircraft manufacturing and maintenance facilities are the most frequent, but plating shops, electronic manufacturers, metal forming/shaping, metal cutting/grinding can also generate metals that lead to exposures.

The most common heavy metals are chromium (particularly hexavalent), cadmium and lead. Metals such as arsenic, selenium, mercury, silver and barium are also on the list of RCRA (regulated hazardous) metals.

Heavy metals are hazardous substances. HMD can be transmitted in the air or via physical contamination. It can get into the lungs, moist tissue (eyes, mouth, nose) and skin, causing immediate or long-term health issues.

Heavy metal dust abatement services are for safely and compliantly removing this hazard from contaminated areas.

Our Abatement Process

Safety

HMD is highly regulated because it can impact human health and the environment. Long-term concerns about prolonged exposure, or exposure to high levels of metal is why precautions are so important. Identifying potential sources of heavy metal and sampling provide a roadmap to abatement. Sampling professionals, trained and certified in heavy metal sampling, conduct physical samples (usually wipe tests) that qualify the presence of the suspected material. Personal sampling is also conducted using pumps that collect heavy metal particles and confirm the requirements for proper PPE (personal protective equipment including respirators). An effective level of abatement is usually measured by improvement from baseline sampling to reflect a prescribed efficiency, (eg. 90% reduction).

The removal of heavy metal dust is accomplished by wetting with a “metal-philic” solution and wiping down all surfaces that have contamination, and collecting all related materials into containers for proper hazardous waste disposal.

Disposal

The resulting abated material is likely to be hazardous waste based on quantities above the TCLP threshold (toxic characteristic leaching procedure) found in 40 CFR 261.24:

Regulatory Compliance in Waste Disposal

Disposal

The resulting abated material is likely to be hazardous waste based on quantities above the TCLP threshold (toxic characteristic leaching procedure) found in 40 CFR 261.24:

It can only be sent to facilities that have permits in place to receive, and has detailed, compliance paperwork that require the generator, the transporter and the final disposition to be evaluated for compliance with all regulations. These steps are all managed under either State or Federal agencies depending on the location. In Georgia, the Environmental Protection Division (GA EPD) is the regulatory authority. The Department of Transportation (DOT) regulates the shipping of hazardous materials/wastes.

Summary

When evaluating and performing heavy metal abatement projects, it is important to have experience in scoping and understanding what the client needs. Then making it happen with quality, efficiency, compliance and safety.

First Environmental has carefully trained estimators, supervisors and support staff that manage these processes to address our customer’s industrial cleaning and abatement needs, and provide detailed paperwork support to demonstrate compliance.

Our mission: Exist for our Customers by Fixing Their Problem, and Making Them Happy.

Ensure the safety and compliance of your operations with our expert heavy metal dust management services . Contact First Environmental today to schedule a consultation and safeguard your workplace from hazardous metal exposure. Call us at 888-720-1330 or visit our website to learn more and take the first step towards a safer environment!

All about Cleaning Services at a Food Manufacturing Facility

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 23:06:05 GMT

Our clients turn to us when they need a solution. Who would have thought that food manufacturing facilities need industrial cleaning or industrial maintenance? If you think about it, a food manufacturing facility is just a chemical facility with a different purpose, they make food products. The chemist in me has to remind others that they are called ingredients instead of chemicals, but the processes can be remarkably similar. They use ovens to heat things up, they use water that is prepared for use in products, they have to keep certain equipment heated/cooled. They use various oils, solids, liquids as ingredients. They have confined spaces, they need external support when the work becomes bigger than the regular maintenance crew can handle (think outages).

What are areas that may need attention?

Blending tanks and storage tanks of every size, of various compositions, and with various ingredients are likely. If they have water treatment or waste water treatment on-site, then various other tanks, basins, and containments may require cleaning. Customers need tanks cleaned for various reasons including: best use of the tank, creating more available capacity (removing solids build-up), preparing for tank inspections, contamination or product issues, and other causes. Using different levels of water pressure for cleaning is based on efficacy of removing a material and the tank’s integrity. A 10K or 20K PSI waterblaster will cut through fiberglass or plastic tanks. Consideration of the tank composition is another component of choosing the right tool to utilize.

Ovens or areas where dry product exists , possibly even electrical components is yet another area for attention. In these cases cleaning with water is not the approach, instead dry ice blasting or labor-intensive approaches may be better suited to the task at hand. Examples include conveyors, areas in food processing areas (during outages).

Confined Space Entry work exists even at food manufacturing facilities. In these cases, having a trained confined spaces contractor to address issues is important. Also having the ability to provide confined space rescue where required can be a determining factor in choosing your contractor.

Water Treatment and wastewater treatment are also common. Within the water treatment services industry, this can be a bunch of different things. Terms such as aeration basins, thickeners, clarifiers, vaults/wells, trenches, influents, effluents, neutralization tanks, sedimentation, drying beds all have their place. These need to be cleaned over time based on the level of treatment and accumulation of residuals.

What are times that industrial cleanings occur?

Scheduled outages are when many food manufacturing facilities will do their maintenance to develop optimum efficiency. Examples such as ovens and furnaces, process piping, above ground process and holding tanks, tunnels and conveyors (production lines) require routine industrial cleaning to prevent unforeseen “downtime”, prevent safety hazards, reduce cost, and maintain efficiency.

Disposal and Transportation

Although technically this isn’t cleaning, it is the final step in removing materials from a site, so I have included it here. The disposal itself can be landfill, recycling, reuse or other methods depending on the materials involved. Some food products have additional outlets including livestock feed if the material still has value. Removing the material can be accomplished by vacuum (this can apply to all types of materials), by hand, or by gravity. Each method has additional considerations such as where to store the material. For vacuum removal, either vacuum boxes, frac tanks or liquid vacuum trucks are common for larger volumes. Totes or drums may apply to smaller volumes. Either way, conveying the materials to their final destination takes logistics and right containers to make it easier.

FDA or other Audit Preparation

Most companies like to do a deep clean in advance of site audits. If an upcoming audit requires some facility-wide cleaning, we do that, too. Dust management at areas above 8ft (thinking rafters, horizontal surfaces, de-webbing, and areas that are less accessible for regular janitorial staff). Our team has training for operating in lifts, working at heights, fall protection and dealing with various dust types to improve efficiency and minimize expense.

When evaluating and performing such cleaning projects inside a food manufacturing facility, it is valuable to have experience in scoping and understanding what clients need. First Environmental makes it happen with quality, efficiency, and safety.

Our teams have real-world experience with cleaning each of the above and solving our customers’ most challenging problems.

Our mission: Exist for our Customers by Fixing Their Problem, and Making Them Happy.

Our goal: To be the most desired industrial cleaning service.

Pressure Washing 101

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 23:08:30 GMT

Everything You Need to Know About Industrial Pressure Washing

At its simplest form, pressure washing is just the application of water under pressure to remove materials from surfaces.It is a highly effective method to clean buildup when applied correctly. Depending on the material that needs to be removed and the material it is being removed from, water temperature and additional chemicals (soaps/chemicals) can improve efficiency. The amount of pressure that is used to clean the surface, while not harming the surface, is equally important.We have experience pressure washing the following areas:

Industrial Interiors and Exteriors
Tanks, Machinery,
Floors & Manufacturing Surfaces
Concrete & Other Surfaces

Depending on your industry, you will need a pressure washing service at least once or twice a year. This type of industrial cleaning service keeps your equipment running its best and reduces the risk that can affect your equipment.

Hydroblasting is the term used for high pressure removal applications (10K, 20K, 40K PSI), and will be covered in a separate blog.

What is pressure washing used for?

There are many instances in an industrial setting where a pressure washing service may be needed. Removing hard to clean materials is the most common reason. This includes removing grease or oil contamination, chemicals, mold & mildew, as well as some surface preparation needs for painting.

How does a pressure washer work?

Pressure washers are part hose and part air compressor. A pressure washer can have a gas-fueled engine or an electrical powered motor that powers a water pump. The pump accelerates the water, supplied from a water source (hose or tank), to produce high pressure. The washer is hooked to a high pressure-rated hose. At the end of the hose is a water gun that distributes the pressurized water via nozzle (various types). When the trigger is pulled, the water mixes with the air and comes out of the nozzle. Pressure washers are commonly rated by PSI and GPM ratings (pressure and flow). Overall cleaning performance is determined by how these work together. Operation of the pressure washer is also critical, and why choosing the right contractor, with experience and expertise is so important.

Did you know? Pressure washing saves money

Taking the time to remove dirt, grease, dust/grit and other contaminants prolongs the life of equipment and facilities and ultimately saves you money.

First Environmental is Georgia’s top-rated industrial cleaning contractor . Does your company need pressure washing? Our state-of-the-art equipment is here to serve you! Call 888.720.1330 to schedule service or speak with a representative about your pressure washing needs today!

Facility Outage Work, Planned Down Time, Scheduled Facility Repairs

Thu, 16 May 2024 14:56:46 GMT

Planned Outages

Taking care of equipment is critical to the success of a facility. Production drives the business, so a facility that is making their product is typically running all the time. But eventually, equipment needs to be serviced so that it can perform at its best. Downtime for your equipment is not profitable, so it needs to be a short window to get everything done. Under ideal circumstances, this is a planned outage to tackle various needs at the same time. Industrial cleaning services almost always take place during an outage, and choosing an industrial cleaning contractor that can get the job done right and within a few days is crucial.

There are a couple of times of the year that are popular for planned outages such as after Christmas (Dec 26-30 ^th ) or in the summer around the Fourth of July. Some companies plan outages in the spring or the fall, and others have monthly shutdowns for a more regular approach to maintenance. Many build downtime into their maintenance plan. For planned outages, it is important to look ahead to the downtime and coordinate with your contractor to solidify scheduling (labor and equipment) and a clear understanding of what you want (budget, time frame, equipment and performance).

Industrial Cleaning for Planned Outages

Choosing the right industrial cleaning contractor for turnaround services is important. First Environmental strategically manages industrial maintenance into the client’s time frame to decrease downtime. Examples such as ovens and furnaces, process piping, above ground process and holding tanks, tunnels and conveyors (production lines) require routine industrial cleaning to prevent unforeseen “downtime”, prevent safety hazards, reduce cost, and maintain efficiency. Other examples include tanks, trenches, lines, pits/sumps, condensers/heat exchangers, containments, clarifiers, etc... It is common to have electrical, plumbing/piping, cleaning and facility vendors all working in the same space at the same time.

Rely on First Environmental for Planned or Unplanned Outages

Our industrial cleaning services include: hydroblasting, vacuum truck services (solids, liquids, sludges), waste handling (transport and disposal) and other services including confined space work and working at heights.

At other times equipment goes down unexpectedly, and it is all-hands-on deck to get back up and running, or to tackle some specific jobs while the facility is not in operation. It is important to get reliable assistance in getting your process back online as quickly possible.

First Environmental helps our customers get the job done safely, efficiently and timely so that you can be back in production. We would be glad to look at any of your industrial cleaning projects and provide solutions.

Water Jet Cutting Table Cleaning

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 22:56:45 GMT

What is a Water jet Cutting Table?

As the name suggests this is a cutting system that utilizes a stream of high-pressure water to gradually slice through a material. While not the quickest method of cutting it is known for its extreme precision and maneuverability. This makes it the preferred cutting method for many applications both industrial and otherwise. There is a nearly endless variety of cutting table configurations. Some are small enough to be placed on a desk in the office while others are closer to the size of a shipping container. The levels of water pressure used by these systems also vary greatly, with most staying in the 30,000 to 90,000 psi range. On the high end this is strong enough to cut through steel up to about 10 inches thick. The power and flow of the water is incredibly strong, but to cut faster and more accurately it must be mixed with at least one of a variety of abrasives. This is why the water is mixed with an abrasive. Some of the most common abrasives include garnet, sand, coal slag, or glass because they are naturally quite hard, angular and flow well in water.

Parts of the Cutting System

The main components of the cutting table are the water pump, abrasive hopper, gantry, cutting head, table, and the catch tank. The pump provides the pressure to the system while the abrasive mixes in the cutting head right before exiting the nozzle. The cutting head is positioned by the gantry. The gantry is the moving bridge over the table structure. The table simply works to hold the material being cut. It is typically made of slats that must be replaced periodically as they are also cut by the harsh blast of the stream. The last component of the table is the catch tank. This often-overlooked component is where First Environmental comes into play.

Maintenance of the Catch Tank

As the automated table cuts away at the material there is a slow and steady build up of the spent abrasive in the catch tank. Falling into the tank are the small often sharp shapes being cut out and the ultra-fine particles of the object as they are removed. This leads to a serious maintenance question. “How to remove this accumulating material?” While there are systems that can remove these particles, they are often cost prohibitive or not suited for certain applications. This means that over time there will be a buildup of sludge in the tank. This sludge can be very difficult to move as it is made of extremely dense, fine particles that do not retain water. Once settled the best way to remove this material is with a vacuum truck.

A vacuum truck operated by a small crew can typically remove this stubborn sludge from even the biggest of cutting tables in a single day. The crew will use either high pressure or high flow water to agitate the material and allow the pull of the vacuum truck to lift the material out of the tank and into the truck of a vacuum box for disposal.

Provided by G Brown from our field evaluation team.

What You Need to Know About Analytical/Sampling

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 05:55:16 GMT

Sampling and analytical are the collection method and test results used to make decisions about certain materials. For First Environmental, this is usually about waste disposal and profiling, but it can also be about abatement or health & safety. We utilize third party companies to do the analytical work, but helping our clients collect samples and finding the most appropriate (or required) test methods and sampling approach is something we get involved in daily. We also use trained experts to monitor specific materials that have toxicity to humans (asbestos, heavy metals).

Sampling for disposal purposes

The sampling is usually about the characteristics of certain waste materials, and the focus is on physical properties of the waste. Examples such as ignitability, corrosivity and reactivity, as well as various metal and organic materials are derived directly from the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and its supporting regulations found in the Code of Federal Regulations (40 CFR 261). These sampling methods are designed to test for these physical properties or the presence of materials when tested that exceed a specified threshold which is identified in this section. “Totals” analytical provides a quantifiable result about the presence of certain materials in a sample. A TCLP (toxic characteristic leaching procedure) analytical is the basis for RCRA determination. Sampling for each of these items varies according to the test method, but ultimately are about determining whether the waste is hazardous or non-hazardous by these definitions. Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facilities (TSDF’s) have requirements about what types of materials they can receive and manage, including hazardous waste or non-RCRA waste, and this analytical or testing allows them to corroborate their ability to handle it. While the focus here is on hazardous waste, it can also apply to other property types including radioactive, TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act), etc…

Sampling and Surveys for Abatement

Prior to a demolition or renovation, facilities need to identify if they specific hazards that need special attention. Specifically asbestos, heavy metal dust and Pb-based paint come to mind. When there is the possibility of these materials being present, they must be tested for prior. If present, there are abatement procedures that must be followed in accordance with various compliance regulations (these can be federal, state, local, corporate, etc…). Sampling via physical method such as wipe sampling or debris or collected materials is most common. Air monitoring is a frequently used testing method for identifying asbestos particles that are released into the air. These are potential health hazards to those in the area. Pre-sampling or surveys are used to identify these areas of concern so they can be abated. Air monitoring is also done at the end of an abatement project to indicate that it has passed OSHA/AHERA clearance standards. These are referred to as “clearance” samples. More details on this or included in the next section.

Monitoring for Health & Safety

This focus is more about the physical conditions that employees are working in. Similar to air monitoring mentioned in the previous paragraph, sampling the air for hazards that can impact human health are critical to safe operations. Chemicals such as hydrogen sulfide, oxygen, carbon monoxide, ammonia, or other volatiles can be tested for using gas meters. Their presence or lack of presence can impact safety. Recognition of OSHA PEL’s and other hazards helps us to determine engineering controls or proper PPE selection when working. The following are two of the most common sampling methods:

Wipe testing:

Initial testing for heavy metals is accomplished via “ghost wipes”. These wipe samples will be collected by a trained, third-party professional and analyzed at an accredited laboratory. These samples will establish the baseline levels of contamination that exist in the work area and are often referred to as “background samples”. When considering the approach to abatement, it is important to obtain background samples prior to the beginning of any abatement job in order to choose the adequate level of worker protection, containment measures, and air monitoring procedures necessary. After abatement is complete, these same wipe sample methods will be applied to obtain post-job levels of contaminants from the work area.
Air monitoring:

Air monitoring is offered in a variety of different applications in the abatement world. One of the ways that air monitoring is used is by attaching personnel monitoring pumps onto the abatement workers and monitoring the air present in the worker’s breathing zone. This air is captured into a cassette and analyzed via Phase Contrast Microscopy to identify the levels of contaminants present in the air. This is important information for any abatement contractor to obtain in order to ensure all workers are protected by selecting the appropriate respiratory protection for each job. Air monitoring is also used outside the work area as a means of obtaining quantitative laboratory data that ensures hazardous fibers are not escaping the work area during or after abatement. The final way that air monitoring is used is for a final clearance on the abatement job. This means that air monitoring pumps will be set up inside and/or outside the work area to ensure that there are no hazards remaining in the air after abatement is complete and the space is safe for re-occupancy.

Wrap-Up

First Environmental supports our customers by providing options to solve their problems, each step along the way. We do our part to make it easy for you. We want to work for you, and we want you to see the difference First Environmental can make. We have various sampling options to collect analytical.

To speak with a representative about sampling/survey services or other industrial cleaning or abatement jobs call First Environmental today or send us a note via e-mail.

What You Need to Know About Vacuuming Solids

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 15:43:17 GMT

Vacuum trucks are big pieces of equipment used to handle the hardest jobs in industry. If you see a vacuum truck driving down the road, it is noticeable because of its size, and tanks, and hose, and baghouses. They look awesome, but we are a little biased. When you are vacuuming solids, you need the right tool that can handle the job, and in this case that means a big piece of equipment.

Purpose of Vac Truck and Choosing the Right One for Solids

The vac truck’s purpose is to remove materials that businesses have in hard to manage places. First, let’s tackle materials. The vac truck can handle liquid, solids, sludges and powders. It can also handle gravel and sand. Since we are specifically talking about vacuuming solids, it is important to make the distinction that not all vacuum trucks are created equal. Smaller vacuum trucks are designed for smaller tasks. For solids removal, you need a larger (also heavier) unit that creates more vacuum, up to 5,300 CFM (cubic feet per minute) at 28” Hg (inches of vacuum at sea level). For comparison, a home vacuum cleaner is around 50 CFM. This leads us into the dynamics of using this piece of equipment. First Environmental primarily chooses the bigger vacuum units because that is what our customers need.

Moving Solids Using Vacuum

Essentially, a large pump (or blower) displaces air from the holding tank creating vacuum, and the vacuum is used to “pull” the solids. The solids can be pulled into the holding tank. When the tank is full, the solids can be discharged. If the client needs to keep the material or has an on-site location for the material it is off-loaded there. Other times, the client will need to off-load into a roll-off box for disposal. We use vacuum trucks with high dumps so that material can be discharged directly into the roll-off box instead of onto the ground and relocated into the roll-off box.

Another solution is the vacuum box. The vac box can be set up “before” the vac truck to allow the materials to be moved into the container before getting to the vac truck. This isn’t really a physics lesson, but the air flow will pull the material into the opening at the top of the box and drop the solids into the container while the vacuum is pulling out the other top side port. This means solids stay in the vac box, and not in the vac truck. It is designed this way to make for easier collection and shipping to a disposal facility.

Some Interesting Considerations for Vacuuming Solids

How to collect the material is part of the process, and so is conveyance. In an ideal world, the operator points the hose at the solid and it collects with ease. This can happen, especially with sand and free-flowing materials. Usually, the vacuuming end of the hose needs to allow air flow and collect solids at the same time to keep consistent vacuum. Most of our projects are not ideal. So, understanding how to work through challenges is part of the expertise of the cleaning process. Large chunks can impact flow, and so can heavy materials and sludges. In these cases, collection and conveyance can be affected, and the use of water-blasting or pressure-washing tools can be used to manage solids (sizing) and to improve flow to the vacuuming hose. The liquid helps the flow through the hose as well. Some heavy solids require good hose management to help the material move through to the vacuum. Factors such as distance from the vacuum truck, hose diameter, and height above/below grade all bring different challenges to every job.

Wrap-Up

First Environmental works closely with our customers to be the most-effective approach to helping them. We want our customers to save money by choosing the best option for the job. We do our part to make it easy for you. We want to work for you, and we want you to see the difference FEN can make for you. We would be glad to look at any of your vacuum cleaning projects and give you the opportunity to work with our team in 2024!

To speak with a representative about vacuum services or other industrial cleaning jobs call First Environmental today or send us a note via e-mail.

40K Waterblasting for Cutting Steel

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 20:39:44 GMT

Water Stuff

Using water to clean surfaces is as common as it gets. We wash our hands, we clean the dishes, we use a shower to get clean, and so on. This leads to one of our favorite discussions, flow versus pressure. The shower is pretty low pressure, so is the faucet. Even the Grand Canyon is an example of flow that is pretty low pressure (even the rapids). The flow of water will ‘cut’ stuff, it just takes a really long time. Same thing if you’ve ever left the hose on in the backyard for too long and it ‘cuts’ into the soil creating its own canyon. These are low-pressure circumstances.

Adding pressure to that water changes a few things, but we are pretty familiar with those effects. If you add a nozzle to a garden hose, the sharper focus can remove/move more effectively. A garden hose without a nozzle moves easy items (leaves, debris…) and with a nozzle it is more focused and moves thicker items (caked on dirt/soil). If we turn that nozzle into a “pressure-washer” at 2000-4000 PSI, it removes certain “dirts/oils” with ease cleaning a patio or driveway making it look like new.

When we kick up the pressure, the flow actually decreases, so you start to get the impact of the water in a more focused way where it is used to remove stubborn materials (resins, paints, hardened materials). Using a 10K or 20K water-blaster is a common way to clean tanks, trenches, grates, and other surfaces that get build-up of various types. On our path towards the 40K, it worth noting that a 10K or 20K water-blaster can cut softer materials (fiberglass, plastic, etc…).

Safety

Any pressurized water work involves inherent safety risks, and taking the proper precautions involving specialized PPE, safety-equipment, and knowledge/experience is critical. It is a job for professionals that know what they are doing. Focused/pressurized water can cut steel, and therefore can also cut humans.

The 40K in Action

A 40K will remove the most challenging materials. It is also able to cut steel. One of the more common uses for the 40K is actually in cutting steel, and it is ideally adapted for doing this in an area where a flame is a problem (flammable atmospheres, spark-sensitive areas). As an example, we can use the 40K to create an entry point into a tank that contains materials (materials themselves or vapors) that are flammable/combustible. This occurs with tanks that do not have a manhole, or have such a small opening that it is necessary to create additional access. The following are some pictures from a recent event:

In the pictures, it is easy to see that the process is automated and controlled via remote access with a precision tool.

Summary

When evaluating and performing hydroblasting services , it is important to have experience in scoping and understanding what clients need. Then making it happen with quality, efficiency, compliance and safety.

First Environmental has carefully trained operator, supervisors and support staff that manage these processes to address our customers specialized needs.

Our mission: Exist for our Customers by Fixing Their Problem, and Making Them Happy.

Asbestos Abatement Servcies

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 14:45:28 GMT

Asbestos-containing materials and their abatement remain a common challenge of various businesses, general contractors, and demolition companies.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring substance used in a variety of construction materials for insulation and as a fire retardant. The mineral fiber is strong and exhibits heat-resistant properties, making it ideal for an array of manufactured goods and materials. Examples include roofing shingles, ceiling and floor tiles, paper products, and asbestos cement products. Removal of these materials, as they deteriorate or need to be replaced, requires expert assistance and proper management.

Asbestos has been proven to be a hazardous substance. When materials with asbestos break down during repair, remodeling, or demolition activities, microscopic fibers become airborne and can get into the lungs, causing long-term health issues. Asbestos abatement services are for safely and compliantly removing this hazard from contaminated areas.

Safety

Asbestos is highly regulated primarily because it can impact human health. Long-term concerns about prolonged exposure to asbestos are why taking precautions is so important. Initial steps include identifying potential sources of asbestos (mentioned above) and then checking to see what the asbestos content looks like. This is qualified by professionals, trained and certified in asbestos sampling, by performing an asbestos survey which measures the content of asbestos down to the fiber. The removal of asbestos is driven by keeping exposures to a minimum. This includes processes for wetting the material, negative air enclosures (to prevent release), manual labor/mechanical removal/glove bags, and specific PPE (personal protection equipment including respirators) that address potential hazards and mitigate exposure.

Disposal

The resulting abated material is asbestos-contaminated, and when it is part of a regulated process, often referred to as RACM. This material has very specific packaging requirements including double-bagging (“burrito-wrap” and other contained terms are common) as well as very specific signage that indicates the hazards. It can only be sent to facilities that have permits in place to receive and has detailed, compliance paperwork that allows close scrutiny from the generator, the transporter, and the final disposition. These steps are all managed under either State or Federal agencies depending on the location. In Georgia, the Environmental Protection Division (GA EPD) is the regulatory authority.

Summary

When evaluating and performing asbestos abatement removal projects, it is important to have experience in scoping and understanding what clients need. Then making it happen with quality, efficiency, compliance and safety.

First Environmental has carefully trained estimators, supervisors, and support staff that manage these processes to address our customer's abatement needs, and provide detailed paperwork support to demonstrate compliance.

Our mission: Exist for our Customers by Fixing Their Problems, and Making Them Happy.

All About Tank Cleaning Services

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 15:20:00 GMT

Tank Cleaning Services

Our clients turn to us when they need a solution. Within a vast number of chemical and manufacturing industries, this can be a broad category Considering tanks (also called reactors, vessels, tanks, totes, railcars, and compartments…) can be in every industry, of every size, of various compositions, and with multiple components, having the ability to discern the right approach is critical.

Customers need tanks cleaned for various reasons, including the best use of the tank, creating more available capacity (removing solids build-up), preparing for tank inspections, contamination or product issues, and other causes.

These tanks can contain hazardous chemicals, resins, oils, water, sediment, paint, fibers, food materials, and powders; you name it. Applying the right approach to tank cleaning will be based on several factors. First, the material for removal: liquid, solid, or sludge. Hazardous, non-hazardous, safety considerations, time constraints, disposal/recycling/transferring (the client wants to keep the material).

Also, the definition of clean. “How clean is clean?” is a common expression, and it differs from client to client, project to project. Here are a few examples:

Material removal only
Remove material, pressure wash interior
Remove material, hot water pressure wash (for certain chemicals, oils to be sure)
Remove material, water blast at 10K, 20K PSI for a certain level of clean
Removal of solids (vacuum if flowable, chiseled/hammered for hardened solids, etc)

Using different water pressure levels for cleaning is based on the efficacy of removing material and the tank’s integrity. A 10K or 20K PSI water-blaster will cut through fiberglass or plastic tanks. Consideration of the tank composition is another component of choosing the right tool.

Safety

To minimize risk, tanks can be cleaned remotely using automated tools such as 2D or 3D tools that can be lowered into the tank for water-blasting efficiency without entry. Also, tank cleaning can be done with poles/wands to stay outside the tank where access allows this, or a point of entry would prohibit entry. This approach works for some tanks, but unfortunately, not all. Many tanks contain baffles or coils for either flow or heating. These are difficult to clean around/behind if using automated tools or external cleaning. Utility hole access can also influence whether this is a good approach.

If a remote approach is not feasible, a confined space entry is required. This means the cleaning will be done from inside the tank. There are numerous safety requirements to do this, and only fully-trained personnel can perform this type of work. See last month’s blog for more details on confined space entry . Other safety considerations include working at heights, scaffolding (both interior and exterior), slips/trips/falls, lifting/turning (especially if bucket removal is required), atmospheric and chemical considerations, access entry (utility hole size, location), and other hazards that are anticipated in drawing up a confined space entry permit.

Disposal

The material that remains in the tank before cleaning, as mentioned above, requires action. Whether disposal or not, removing the material can be accomplished by vacuum (this can apply to all types of materials), by hand, or by gravity. Each method has additional considerations, such as where to store the material. For vacuum removal, either vacuum boxes or frac tanks are standard for larger volumes. Totes or drums may apply to smaller books. When using a pressure washer or water-blaster, it is essential to recognize the flow and volume of water generated as it will influence the resulting amount of material. Depending on flammable vapors, vacuum services may require a liquid-ring vacuum truck.

Summary

When evaluating and performing such cleaning projects, it is valuable to have experience in scoping and understanding what clients need—then making it happen with quality, efficiency, and safety.

First Environmental uses vacuum trucks, water blasters (PW, hot water PW, 10K, 20K), line lances, air chisels, air hammers, and hard work to address these specific areas of attention within various tank cleaning settings.

Our teams have real-world experience with cleaning each of the above and solving our customers’ most challenging problems.

Our mission: Exist for our Customers by Fixing Their Problems and Making Them Happy.

Our goal: To be the most desired industrial cleaning service.

To schedule a cleaning service or to speak with a representative about other industrial cleaning services call First Environmental today.

All About Tank Cleaning Services

Personnel for Environmental and Industrial Cleaning Support

Sun, 05 Feb 2023 17:48:00 GMT

As we start up 2023, we thought it might be good to discuss the nature of our business and our personnel. Our people are why we succeed in every part of our business. Sales, management, logistics, and administration all contribute, but it is our team in the field that is where we make it happen every day. Therefore, let’s learn about our team and when they may be a need for your company.

Culture

Choosing the right personnel is a challenge and one we take pride in. We develop talent, and we seek professionals, but mostly we are looking for teammates that are willing to work hard and achieve greatness for ourselves and our customers. The work we do isn’t easy. Starting each day before dawn requires an attitude of effort. Making sure we have everything needed for the job before arriving involves preparation, knowledge, and logistics. Arriving on-site on time means time planning that counts for traffic, weather, and surprises. We are developing the expertise for every job we encounter, including water-blasting, vacuum work, ductwork cleaning, confined space entry, transportation, dust removal, asbestos & heavy metal dust abatement, line lancing, spill clean-up, environmental remediation, etc. Each comes with experience and attention to detail. Our supervisors are experienced across various industry needs and are leaders. We get a lot of work done in a one-day shift. This doesn’t happen by accident. We spend time and effort to find the right “team” that is willing to get it done. We take pride in our work and love to hear from our clients about what we’ve accomplished and why they love us. For us to provide exceptional service, we need to give our team the tools to succeed.

Training

It starts with safety, and our guys get put through the paces from the very beginning. OSHA governs safety compliance. OSHA training is the starting point, but training encompasses so much more. We operate in PPE (personal protective equipment) every day starting with what we consider the basics: eye protection, hearing protection, hard hats, safety boots, gloves, hi-viz vests and add on various job-specific safety items including respirators, face shields, harnesses, chemical meters (H2S, LEL, O2, etc…), special gloves, FR gear, breathing gear, etc… While we start with the basics, everything we use gets trained on, and it goes beyond that to include hazard-specific training around activities such as: working at heights, fall protection, confined space entry/rescue, heavy metal dust removal, asbestos abatement, HAZWOPER, etc… It also includes our equipment like vacuum trucks, pressurized water work (water-blasting at 10K, 20K, 40K and pressure washing at lower pressures up to 5K) as well as manual processes such as scraping, jackhammering, air chisels, etc… First Environmental has several trainers with specific experience in all of these areas to make sure our team is equipped with practical knowledge and application.

Team

Our guys work together. That starts with our field guys scoping projects and our safety/compliance and QC maintenance procedure during the job. Everyone comes together to create an approach that is experienced, hard-working, efficient, and safe to deliver a successful project every time. During different outage seasons, it’s impressive to watch the teams achieve timely results when the customer must get work done in a limited window. It is both a challenge to our team and a reward for our client when we consistently get the job done on time and within budget without requiring change orders, which is always our goal. A typical team is a supervisor, an operator, and 1-2 technicians. Supervisors lead the team and can perform all the functions. Operators are usually associated with a piece of equipment such as water blasters, vacuum trucks, and excavation equipment, and technicians do a lot of the heavy lifting.

Wrap-Up

First Environmental works closely with our customers to be the most-effective approach to helping them. We want our customers to save money by choosing the best option for the job. We do our part to make it easy for you. We want to work for you, and we want you to see the difference First Environmental can make for you. We would be glad to look at any of your industrial cleaning projects and give you an opportunity to work with our team in 2023!

To schedule an industrial cleaning service or to speak with a representative about other industrial cleaning services call First Environmental today.

Containers for Environmental and Industrial Cleaning Support

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:41:00 GMT

As we wrap up 2022, I realized we had not talked about containers. While we use them on a regular basis for our industrial cleaning projects, they are often lost in the shuffle of the “cleaning” part of the project because we focus on the area that is getting cleaned. Therefore, let us learn about these containers, what they are, why we use them, and when they may be a need for your company.

Bulk Container Types-Solids

The most common container used by industry is the roll-off box , it is basically a rectangle with an open top (also called “open-top bins”). Our standard-size roll-off box is 20 yds (basically 20 cubic yards of space). Most trash companies provide a 30-yds roll-off, so a little larger and higher sides (think of the big boxes in the back part of a parking lot or behind most facilities) to allow more trash collection. The next step up from these is a 40-yds, typically with even higher sides (think a 20-yds box times 2, but vertically). There are also larger sizes, 50-yds and higher, but they have some limitations. Most importantly, if the boxes are going to be shipped over the road, there are DOT weight limit requirements for hauling. The larger the container size, the lighter the material will need to be to stay under weight limits. Soil can be heavy, so usually smaller containers are the best choice. Trash and industrial debris can be a little lighter, so the 30-yds boxes from trash companies make sense, you just have to be aware of weight. 40-yds and greater have to be really light materials or more commonly odd-sized materials that end up needing the space but leave a lot of air space in the boxes (metals for recycling are like this).

Another container that is particularly useful is the vacuum box . It is heavier than a standard roll-off box because it has an enclosed top . Commonly, a 25-yds box, and holds about 3000 gallons. Sludges and solids can be managed via these boxes (for liquids see tankers below). Their specific function is to capture materials from a cleaning/vacuuming process. This is accomplished by connecting the box to a vacuum truck and applying the vacuum through the box to the “cleaned” area and pulling the residual materials to the box, where they drop into the container before reaching the vacuum truck. It is a highly effective tool in capturing material for easier disposal management.

Bulk Container Types-Liquids

Frac Tanks are the most common large-volume containers. They hold approximately 18,000 gallons. To be sure, there are varying configurations so the volume will change depending on the internal structure. Some of these tanks are engineered for holding liquids, others have separation equipment (weirs, oil-water separating, etc…). They are designed to contain liquids, but they are not for transport .

Poly Cubes are a similar cousin to the frac tank in that they are specifically for holding liquids as well, but because of their poly construction, they are better suited to chemical materials that would not be compatible with metals (examples: acids/bases). The standard Poly Cube is ~6000-gallon capacity, so a little smaller footprint than a frac tank.

Tankers are also an option and one that can be transported. Standard sizes are around 5000 gallons. Some will have pumps on the tankers, others are only a vessel to transport liquids. Either option provides a transportable tank, and the conveyance of the materials is by pump, gravity feed, or external process.

Non-Bulk Container Types

Drums are probably the most common non-bulk container. They come in various types including metal, poly (plastic), and fiber, and may contain liners for different compatibilities. The workhorse of the industry is a 55-gallon drum, and they can be open-top or closed-top. For the open-top drums, the entire lid can be removed. The open-top lids can be bolt-tightened or can close with a quick-lock action. There are also smaller-sized drums and pails.

Totes are the next size up for liquids, and similarly, come in various constructions, but the most common are poly construction (think hard plastic bladder) within a metal frame. The typical size is 275 gallons. There are also larger totes at 330 gallons that are common for chemical materials, and they are usually a more durable construction for repeated use.

First Environmental works with our customers to find the most-effective approach to managing the resultant materials from their projects. Whether we are helping with waste disposal, emergency spill response , working within your current disposal management plan, we do our part to make it easy for you.

We would be glad to look at any of your industrial cleaning projects and provide options, including containers, as needed. Wishing all a prosperous 2023!

To schedule a cleaning service or to speak with a representative about other industrial cleaning services call First Environmental today.

The Process of Confined Space Entry

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 15:07:00 GMT

What is a Confined Space?

OSHA has a three-part definition for a confined space:

The space must be “large enough and so configured that an employee can bodily enter and perform assigned work” AND…
The space must “have limited or restricted means for entry or exit” AND…
The space must not be “designed for continuous employee occupancy.”

Before entry, the appropriate steps to work within a confined space need to be written, communicated, evaluated and reviewed.

Our process for industrial confined space cleaning is tailored to various hazards, extractions, the physical space, the work to be completed, and proper personnel training. First Environmental provides trained and certified entry personnel and confined space cleaning services for our clients.

Confined Space Services In Action

The following is a summary of confined space training that hits the highlights…

The potential hazards of confined spaces:

Toxic fumes
Oxygen deficiency
Explosive atmosphere
Exposure to hazardous energies
Moving machine parts
Engulfment/entrapment

Safety precautions:

Perform a hazard assessment: Identify all hazards and needed controls. Include risks created by the work itself.
Get a confined space permit signed by a confined space entry supervisor.
Monitor air:
Provide initial and continuous monitoring for toxics, flammables, and oxygen.
Ventilate and monitor when performing hot work or applying chemicals in a confined space or an adjacent area.
Check for adequate, continuous ventilation when hazardous atmospheres are possible.
Lock-out all energy sources: This includes stored energies.
Use proper controls and protective equipment: Respiratory, skin, eye, and fall protection.
Set up a retrieval device.

Confirm that training is current for:

Entry personnel
Attendants
Supervisors
Rescue personnel
Ensure that rescue personnel is available.
Ensure that the attendant is:
At the point of entry
In communication with rescue and entry personnel

Know how to prevent heat stress:

Take breaks as needed in a cool environment
Drink fluids

Industrial Confined Cleaning Services Nearby

First Environmental has the training, experience, resources, and knowledge required for successful confined safety entry work. Facility managers and Maintenance managers turn to First Environmental when they need confined space entry work done by professionals that pay attention to detail, follow the rules, work hard, work smart and work safely.

To schedule a confined space cleaning service or to speak with a representative about other industrial cleaning services call First Environmental today.

Managing Waste

Fri, 26 Nov 2021 09:00:00 GMT

Managing Waste- An Overview

When materials outlive their usefulness, they get discarded.
At your residence, they go into the trash (or recycling). Household wastes are exempt from regulation (If you’ve seen H.H.W. events, they are in place to capture these hazardous wastes even though they aren’t regulated).
At your place of business, they are regulated. This means they have to be evaluated before they get disposed of/recycled. Are they trash? Are they solid waste? Are they hazardous waste? Can/should they be recycled? Do they still have value as a product?
Since we are primarily supporting businesses, that will be the focus of this discussion.
This blog’s discussion will focus on waste management: non-hazardous, particular waste, and hazardous waste.

Waste Disposal 101- A Review Guide for Non-Haz Waste

How does your business handle its waste disposal practices? Your business needs a strategy to dispose of these materials safely and efficiently, from storage to transportation of waste products. At the same time, your business needs to comply with relevant state and federal regulations to ensure its disposal practices meet environmental safety standards.

This quick review guide will review everything you need to know about non-hazardous waste transportation and disposal. Here’s how to develop your business’s four-step waste disposal plan:

Identification of Waste Byproducts : Industrial and commercial wastes come in all shapes and sizes. More importantly, every category of waste has specific characteristics that require careful evaluation and planning. The first step of a waste disposal strategy is to identify your business’s waste byproducts. For example, you need to determine whether your business is producing either hazardous wastes, non-hazardous wastes, or both. Depending on the type of waste your business generates, additional testing or other specialized procedures may be required.
Waste Storage: Proper storage of waste products ensures that all hazardous and non-hazardous waste remains safe until disposal. Most non-hazardous waste can be stored in roll-off box containers. This storage equipment ensures that waste products are appropriately collected to minimize environmental exposure.
Waste Transportation Services: Because your business does not dispose of its waste products on-site, the waste needs to be transported to a secure disposal facility (often called a treatment, storage, and disposal facility or “TSDF”). Waste transportation services ensure that waste products reach their proper endpoint destination. These services will retrieve the waste storage container from your premises and then deliver it to an approved disposal or TSDF facility.
Waste Disposal or Treatment: The final step in non-hazardous waste management is disposal. The disposal of industrial and commercial wastes varies depending on the type of waste involved. While many wastes may be disposed of in landfills or incinerators, others require specialized long-term storage and containment. To understand specific disposal regulations, we recommend consulting a waste services professional in your area.

Hazardous vs. Non-Hazardous Waste: What’s the Difference?

To properly evaluate your business’s waste disposal protocols, you must understand the difference between hazardous and non-hazardous wastes. Our team of waste disposal professionals has created the following chart to help you know the difference.

E.P.A. Definitions

Hazardous Waste

40 C.F.R. § 243.101(n) defines hazardous waste as any “waste or combination of wastes of solid, liquid, contained gaseous, or semisolid form which may cause, or contribute to, an increase in mortality or an increase in serious irreversible, or incapacitating reversible illness, taking into account the toxicity of such waste, its persistence and degradability in nature, its potential for accumulation or concentration in tissue, and other factors that may otherwise cause or contribute to adverse acute or chronic effects on the health of persons or other organisms.”

Non Hazardous Waste
40 C.F.R. § 243.101(y) refers to non-hazardous waste as “…sludges, and other discarded solid materials, including solid waste materials resulting from industrial, commercial, and agricultural operations…” and from community activities but does not include solid or dissolved materials in domestic sewage or other significant pollutants in water resources, such as silt, dissolved or suspended solids in industrial wastewater effluents, dissolved materials in irrigation return flows or other common water pollutants.”

Categories of Waste

There are generally four characteristics associated with hazardous wastes: (a) ignitability, (b) corrosivity, (c) reactivity, and (d) toxicity.

Non-hazardous waste usually refers to residential, commercial, institutional solid wastes, and street wastes that are not ignitable, corrosive, reactive, or toxic.

Common Industries

Some of the largest producers of hazardous waste include dry cleaners, automobile repair shops, laboratories, pesticide users and manufacturers, textile manufacturers, and energy producers.

Nearly every business produces non-hazardous waste, from construction projects to general manufacturing.

How It’s Disposed

The E.P.A. has specific guidelines for hazardous waste disposal. These procedures vary depending on the classification or listing of the hazardous waste.

The most common method of disposal for non-hazardous waste is landfill disposal. Other methods may include composting, recycling, and incineration.

Common Types of Non-Hazardous Waste

Agricultural Solid Waste: This group of waste refers to the natural byproducts of livestock harvesting and crop production. Agricultural solid waste may include animal manure, livestock feed, disposed of crop portions, and other residual wastes from agricultural operations. Agricultural solid waste is often produced by farms and food processing facilities.
Construction and Demolition Waste: Large-scale commercial building projects involve vast amounts of waste products. Construction waste and demolition debris commonly include non-hazardous wastes: concrete, glass, wood, brick, sand, asphalt, nails, shingles, roofing components, drywall, and plastics. Every residential and commercial building project should have an efficient method for storing and transporting construction waste. Every developer and contractor must have a construction waste partner they can count on for safe and efficient disposal.
Food Waste: Food waste refers to organic material used for the consumption, preparation, handling, and sale of food products. Restaurants, grocery stores, and hotels are some of the biggest producers of food waste byproducts. Food scraps and food waste result from expired or non-conforming products that must be disposed of to make room for new inventory. This type of non-hazardous waste is often stored in roll-off box containers.
Residential Solid Waste: The average family throws away more than 6,500 pounds of waste every year. This waste refers to all sorts of residential solid wastes, including paper products, food scraps, plastic packaging, aluminum cans, glass bottles, cotton clothing, and yard trimmings. Most non-hazardous residential waste is retrieved by local or municipal services, though some residential activities (like interior renovations or outdoor landscaping) may require third-party waste services.
Mining Waste: Certain mining byproducts resulting from the extraction of ores and other materials may be considered non-hazardous. Non-hazardous mining waste may include red and brown muds/clay, phosphate rock, and other excavated materials. Because the mining industry is highly regulated, our team recommends checking your disposal procedures with an environmental expert before confirming any single disposal strategy.
Medical Waste: Some, but not all, medical waste is considered non-hazardous. As long as the medical waste is non-radioactive and non-surgical, the waste may be suited for non-hazardous disposal practices. According to the World Health Organization, 85% of all healthcare waste is non-hazardous. Non-hazardous medical waste includes products like plastic packaging, paper, gloves, masks, linens, and food supplies. Other types of medical waste (like tissue samples or surgical instruments) require specialized disposal procedures.
Packaging Waste: Packaging waste is one of the most significant sources of non-hazardous waste. From cardboard boxes to plastic containers, packaging waste is one of the bulkiest and most common items found in non-hazardous waste.
Timber Waste : The process of harvesting and manufacturing timber products creates a large amount of non-hazardous waste. Commonly discarded timber waste may include tree branches, sawdust, trim, leaves, bark, and other logging residues. A non-hazardous waste services company is often the most cost-effective solution to store and efficiently dispose of this material.
Scrap Tires : Every year, Americans discard hundreds of millions of scrap rubber tires. These scrap tires can be recycled and repurposed for new uses (called “tire-derived products”), which may be used in construction materials, textiles, or other industries. To transport discarded scrap tires to a local recycling facility, contact your area’s local waste services company.

Understanding RCRA Regulations (Hazardous Waste)

The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) allows state and federal agencies to regulate and enforce waste disposal practices. The RCRA defines different types of wastes and how they should be appropriately stored, transported, and disposed of. The RCRA has technical classifications of hazardous wastes, explicitly listing the chemicals, compounds, and waste byproducts that require strict environmental oversight. When it comes to Georgia-specific regulations, it is also essential that your business understands the regulations promulgated by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD).

Every company should develop a comprehensive plan to deal with their business waste needs. Because disposal practices vary from industry to industry, every company needs a customized waste management solution that addresses the types of discarded materials, the recipient facility for the non-hazardous wastes, and the transportation needs for the quantity and quality of the waste materials. RCRA compliance is an essential component of safe environmental practices for every business.

To minimize the financial costs and environmental impacts of non-hazardous waste, the E.P.A. has prescribed four essential steps that every business can take to reduce their waste footprint. These steps include: (1) reducing and reusing source materials; (2) recycling and composting; (3) converting non-recyclable materials into energy sources through processes like combustion and landfill gas recovery; and (4) practicing safe treatment and disposal methods. These practices can not only save you money but can also reduce risk and promote environmental sustainability.

What is Special Waste and How is it Disposed of in Georgia?

Special waste refers to any class of waste that requires specialized disposal, transportation, storage, containment, or treatment. Though special wastes are not included in the E.P.A. list of hazardous wastes, they are still regulated at the local, county, and state levels to ensure proper disposal procedures. In Georgia, special wastes are usually controlled by the county or municipality where the waste production activity takes place or where the waste is later received. Under Georgia law, special wastes must be disposed of at specified “regional landfill or regional solid waste disposal facilities,” owned and operated by the county, city, regional authority, or special solid waste district.

Common Types of Special Waste in Georgia

Asbestos : Produced from silicate mineral deposits, asbestos is a heat-resistant material previously used in construction, insulation, textiles, brake pads, adhesives, paint, tiling, and roofing. Though asbestos-based materials have been mostly phased out today, there are still thousands of buildings in Georgia with outdated asbestos materials. Because asbestos exposure is associated with long-term health conditions like mesothelioma, most counties require that this material meets special waste disposal procedures.
Cement Kiln Dust : Cement kiln dust (sometimes abbreviated as “CKD”) is particulate matter produced during the cement manufacturing process. The composition of cement kiln dust varies between cement manufacturers, with different concentrations of calcium oxide, magnesium oxide, calcium sulfate, and other compounds. Because cement kiln dust has high alkalinity, most cities and counties take technical measures to prevent CKD exposure in waterways, sewers, and runoff.
Contaminated Soil: Petroleum-contaminated soil (sometimes abbreviated as “P.C.S.”) results from gasoline, oil, kerosene, or diesel fuel contamination of soil. High concentrations of petroleum-contaminated soil may result from pipeline leaks, shipping or transportation accidents, and leaking storage tanks. Because petroleum-contaminated soil is associated with health complications and soil degradation, this material must be safely transported to a special waste disposal facility.
Fossil Fuel Combustion Waste : Energy generated from burning fossil fuels, like coal and natural gas, produces waste byproducts called fossil fuel combustion waste (sometimes abbreviated as “F.F.C. waste”). Coal combustion by energy providers and utility companies produces large amounts of coal ash byproducts, including bottom ash, fly ash, and boiler slag. Fossil fuel combustion waste contains high concentrations of mercury, lead, chromium, and arsenic that can be dangerous to human health. This waste must be stored, transported, and disposed of in compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations.
Industrial Sludge & Commercial Sludge : Industrial and commercial sludge may refer to any number of environmental contaminants like sewage sludge, concrete grinding sludge, wastewater sludge, petroleum sludge, and drain or sump sludge. Industrial sludge is a common waste byproduct in many industries, including the automotive industry, paint/coatings industry, and pulp and paper industry. Depending on the characteristics of this material, this category of waste often requires special waste transportation and disposal.
Mining Waste & Mineral Processing Waste : The extraction and processing of minerals/ores produce large amounts of waste byproducts. Common special wastes in the mining industry include copper slag, lead slag, process wastewater, and leaching chemicals. This category of particular waste must comply with relevant waste disposal regulations in your area.

Understanding Special Waste Rules in Your Area

It is essential that you understand the particular waste disposal rules that affect your business. We always recommend contacting your local waste disposal division to understand how your business may be affected by special waste disposal regulations. Some counties and municipalities may require testing procedures to determine the chemical makeup of certain special wastes and the corresponding disposal procedures.

To safely deal with your special waste, your business should develop the following three-step waste management plan:

Storage : To prevent environmental contamination, special wastes must be adequately contained in secure locations. Special waste storage systems may include roll-off box containers, tanks, drums, and other secure containers. Many regulatory authorities also require that special waste storage containers be labeled appropriately and that the materials be transported within a certain period of time.
Transportation : Moving special wastes from one location to another is no easy task. The process of transporting special wastes requires specialized equipment to minimize the chances of leaks or other errors. Special waste transportation ensures that your waste transportation needs are left in the hands of professionals, who can set up all the logistics and deliver the waste to the correct disposal facility.
Disposal and Treatment : The final step of a comprehensive waste management system is disposal. Disposal procedures are usually handled by public or governmental agencies that process, recycle, treat, or dispose of special wastes. Because special waste disposal requires additional handling and processing, many cities and counties charge additional fees for special waste disposal.

What Can Your Business Do?

Consult a waste services professional today to evaluate your business waste needs. First Environmental serves the Southeast with offices in Atlanta, Macon, and Brunswick, offering professionally managed waste services. First Environmental provides a wide range of waste services, including non-hazardous waste transportation using our state-of-the-art vacuum trucks, box cleaning, box washing, tank cleaning service and equipment transportation. First Environmental has extensive experience with hazardous waste management and can provide solutions for your most challenging problems.

Working Safe Does Not Happen by Accident

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 13:32:00 GMT

It takes a team that is committed to operating safely at all times. It requires training, it requires experience, and it requires effort. It cannot be done if any of these things are missing.

Our customers need contractors that have this level of focus on doing things the right way, all the time. First Environmental works in various hazardous environments, including confined spaces, flammable atmospheres, hazardous chemicals, and various manufacturing facilities that require lockout/tag-out procedures.

We train our employees for each of these situations and many more. Whether working at heights, using equipment, confined spaces, chemicals, machinery operation, respirators/supplied air, various PPE, or other site-specific facility requirements, our goal is to provide exceptional attention to detail, including safety.

Our compliance manager, Ray, leads the effort to make sure we are on point, but it is more than that. Safety is not just about checking the boxes; it is about taking care of your teammate and so much more. Ray is continuously focusing on the team and watching out for the squad. We manage compliance, but we live safety. Safety and safe actions are about communication, preparation, behavior, and culture. We use the term family because we are looking out for one another and part of something great. From top to bottom, safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Numerous customers have required safety and site-safety modules that our team completes in advance of work. Our annual training schedule is carefully managed to ensure everyone is competent, qualified, and prepared for the task at hand. Target areas for specific projects that include hazardous substances ( asbestos removal , chemicals), fire prevention/static electricity prevention, slips/trips/falls awareness, and fall protection equipment occur frequently.

Our goal is to maintain our status as the most desired industrial cleaning contractor in the southeast, and safety is paramount to achieving this goal. We pledge to provide safety, security, and confidence through our work.

Our mission:

Exist for our Customers by Fixing Their Problem and Making Them Happy.

Our goal: To be the most desired industrial cleaning service.

Call 888.720.1330 to schedule service or speak with a representative about your needs today!

Water Treatment and Wastewater Treatment

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 17:28:00 GMT

Our clients turn to us when they need help. Within the water treatment services industry, this can be a bunch of different things. Terms such as aeration basins, thickeners, clarifiers, vaults/wells, trenches, influents, effluents, neutralization tanks, sedimentation, drying beds all have their place.

When evaluating and performing such cleaning projects, it is critical to have experience in scoping and providing clients’ effective results. Then taking care of their needs with quality, efficiency, and safety. The following is a breakdown of services in these areas and how we support the business:

Tanks
Aeration basins
Thickeners
Clarifiers
Vaults
Wells
Trenches
Influents/Effluents/Piping/Drains
Caustic/acid rooms
Neutralization/Equalization tanks
Drying beds
Skimmers/Oil-Water Separators

First, Environmental uses vacuum trucks, water blasters (PW, 10K, 20K), skid steers, and hard work to address these specific areas of attention within water treating facilities.

Our teams have real-world experience cleaning each of the above and solving our customers’ most challenging problems.

Our mission: Exist for our Customers by Fixing Their Problem and Making Them Happy.

Our goal: To be the most desired industrial cleaning service.

Hazardous Material Abatement

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 16:27:00 GMT

First Environmental is proud to offer a new hazardous material abatement service.

This service is designed to support clientele with asbestos abatement, lead abatement, and heavy metal dust removal needs throughout Georgia. Leveraging our existing internal resources, we have created our hazardous material abatement business line to continue to serve the needs of our clients. Our mission of fixing our customers’ problems and making them happy is central to everything we do.

Asbestos-containing materials and their remediation remain a common challenge of various businesses, general contractors, and demolition companies.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring substance used in various construction materials for insulation and as a fire-retardant. The mineral fiber is strong and exhibits heat-resistant properties, making it ideal in an array of manufactured goods and materials. Examples include roofing shingles, ceiling and floor tiles, paper products, and asbestos cement products. Removal of these materials, as they deteriorate or need to be replaced, requires expert assistance and proper management.

Asbestos abatement services are for safely and compliantly removing this hazard from contaminated areas.

Lead abatement is similar in scope to asbestos. Lead was a common additive used in paint, and it is a hazardous substance. Over time, the paint can release minor amounts of lead into the environment, and it can have adverse effects on those exposed. This includes impacts on muscles and the nervous system.

We offer lead abatement services to safely and compliantly remove lead-based paint and similar lead-based coatings that were common prior to 1978.

Mold Remediation is another area where a known hazard can impact a business or contractor that requires technical expertise. Molds of various types are common in different settings (most common is the presence of moisture), and in many cases, these molds can have deleterious effects on people. Headaches, allergies, and other illnesses are common.

We offer mold remediation services to safely and effectively eliminate mold concerns. In all cases, removal needs to take place after the initial cause has been identified and mitigated (for example moisture from leaking pipes, etc…).

Everything You Need to Know About Hydroblasting

Fri, 21 May 2021 13:27:00 GMT

Hydroblasting, also known as water blasting or high-pressure water jetting, is a powerful industrial cleaning process that utilizes a high-pressure stream of water to remove unwanted substances from surfaces. The process involves the use of specialized equipment that can produce water pressure of up to 40,000 psi (pounds per square inch), making it an efficient and effective method for cleaning, surface preparation, and other industrial applications.

Hydroblasting is a versatile technique that can be used for a wide range of tasks, from removing paint and coatings to cleaning pipelines and tanks. With its ability to provide precise and controlled cleaning, hydroblasting has become an increasingly popular method in many industries, including manufacturing, construction, and oil and gas.

What is hydroblasting used for?

Hydroblasting is where highly pressurized water is used to clean the interior and exterior surfaces of tanks, pipes, product lines, storage vessels, catch basins, boilers, reactors, evaporators, etc., without using harsh chemicals abrasives. Hydroblasters are also utilized when cleaning condenser tubes, ductwork, drainage systems, digesters, cooling towers, and wastewater treatment basins. Basically, the water is used to remove stubborn materials by force and flow. It can also be used to cut into flammable tanks without the risk of fire.

How does hydroblasting work?

Force and flow refer to the pressure and the amount of water. Depending on the material to be removed and the surface it is being removed from dictates which tool should be used. The experience to know which tool is best for the job is one of the reasons to choose First Environmental. The 10K is a 10,000 psi unit. Similarly, a 20K and a 40K represent higher pressurization and lesser flow. If the goal is to remove a specific substance, both force and flow have to be considered. More flow means more water, but also more movement of the materials. More pressure means more “cutting” and less movement. The balance between these two approaches is essential to a “clean” project. One important consideration is the surface that is being cleaned. Water at high pressures can cut steel and other surfaces, so applying the right solution is critical.

Did you know? Hydroblasting can be “automated.”

Our primary hydroblasting work is manual (operated by our personnel and controlled by hand), which allows us to utilize both a narrow stream used for cutting material and a broad stream used for moving material. This is accomplished using lances, guns, and other water delivery devices.

First Environmental also performs automated cleaning for specific jobs. This includes certain 3D tools that allow us to clean the inside of tanks and structures without entering the space. We choose the right tool for the job in conjunction with the proper pressure and flow. Confined space cleaning, tank cleaning services , and pipeline cleaning are jobs that could require automated hydroblasting, and we are experienced in performing this action.

Our hydroblasting services are top-rated and will limit downtime. Our versatility allows us to perform many different industrial cleaning jobs to solve our customer’s problems.

Call 888.720.1330 to schedule service or speak with a representative about your hydroblasting needs today!

Just remember, water blasting is a common term, and it is the same as hydroblasting (hydro-blasting) and is used interchangeably.

Field Guys and Logistics

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 15:05:00 GMT

When evaluating an industrial cleaning project, it is critical to understand timing, scope, flow, and efficiency. How to clean, what equipment will do the job best, scheduling, and minimizing downtime are factors.

Putting an experienced “field guy” in front of our projects is one way we help our clients and potential customers. Our team has real-world experience with our equipment, its’ capabilities, how to stage a project to get the most efficiency within a specific time frame, choosing the number of guys, and evaluating for safe operations.

Our sales effort is based on these same principles, so we provide value right from the start. You are working with someone who has hands-on experience, has done it before, and can help you find the right approach. Our sales team is comprised of project managers, supervisors, and industry experts that have been in the trenches/tanks and learned by doing.

Our operations logistic support is similar, being responsive to field needs that occur on every project. Before or during any project, they are ready to manage equipment needs, disposal management, labor resources, and changes that take place on the job. We have the knowledge and relationships to make it happen.

The correct result for a project involves bringing these pieces together to manage the process and then delivering consistently.

Our mission: Exist for our Customers by Fixing Their Problem and Making Them Happy.

Our goal: To be the most desired industrial cleaning service.

We look forward to working with you soon.

Industrial Ductwork Cleaning Services

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 14:15:00 GMT

It is hard to believe that dust, particulates, and other contaminants can find their way into the ductwork, but that is their purpose. Mostly, we see light material contamination such as dust or light fibers, but we can also see “thick” materials (resins, paints) that require more substantial approaches. Airflow ductwork is primarily designed to remove airborne materials from working areas, eliminating potential product contamination. Usually, they are part of a baghouse or filtration system to collect the materials. A quick cleanup of filters or change out of bags improves the performance. If there are materials deposited within the ductwork, it inhibits the airflow and needs to be cleaned. Evaluating the ductwork may be complex or straightforward and at times requires specialized camera work to “see” the insides of a pipe that is not accessible.

As we think of spring cleaning, it is good to consider how effective our airflow systems are performing. The process can be a simple mechanical approach or can involve air-moving equipment that can pull a substantial vacuum to remove materials; often, it is both. Working in various industrial settings, working at heights, and understanding line cleaning nuances is essential in any contractor that tackles this type of work.

First Environmental has provided our clients with solutions to dust abatement and other duct cleaning projects. Whether in general manufacturing, food settings, or heavy industrial, our team can provide the most effective approach to your toughest challenges. Working safely, working efficiently, and with minimal interruption to your business requires planning, experience, and the right tools to get the job done. If you would like more information, please contact us. We’d be glad to be your industrial cleaning contractor.

Saving Time and Money

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 16:32:00 GMT

Using heavy industrial equipment to clean your most challenging problems is our business. Having the right team to use that equipment is why clients turn to us for maintenance support.

We want to help our clients run better and minimize their expenses. Finding the best way to approach the problem, solving it, and doing so promptly saves money. Improving the efficiency of your equipment also saves you money.

Let First Environmental evaluate ways to improve your business.

Here are a few ways we can help.

Experts at efficiency, finding the best way to do the job.
Proper industrial cleaning will increase the performance of equipment, therefore improving production.

Efficiency is about doing the same with less. Our goal is to improve labor efficiency by finding ways to reduce the number of labor hours required to get the job and produce the same output level, which translates into savings for our customers.
Right Equipment gets the best bang for the buck.
There is the right tool for every job.
Pressure washer or Water blaster
Liquid Vac or Air Mover
Etc.

Proper Equipment helps our team get the job done right, helping reduce customer downtime.
Lifecycle performance of Equipment by routine maintenance.
Customers cannot afford downtime for repairs, so it is imperative to schedule routine maintenance cleanings.

More efficient equipment means fewer energy expenditures for our customers.

Are You Prepared For Your Next Audit?

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 14:39:00 GMT

Do you have an upcoming audit of your facility? Are you looking for ways to help your location look better to meet compliance or appearance standards? First Environmental can help you.

We have been assisting clients with site audit preparations, including interior and exterior services. In a recent food safety audit prep request, the client was looking for overall clean-up inside and outside of their packaging operation to remove trash/debris, webs, peeling paint, wax build-up, and other generic services that would require an industrial vacuum and additional industrial cleaning . Working at heights and high traffic areas involves training and good execution to make it happen safely and meet the right expectations.

Preparing for environmental audits or addressing specific target areas such as stormwater discharge or spill clean-up brings chemical hazards into the equation. The need to choose the right equipment to provide an effective solution is critical. Vacuum trucks , mini excavators, pressure washers,/water-blasters all can be used to accomplish specific cleaning tasks.

Our team has expert operators that can accomplish the task in an effective, timely manner.

Planned and Unplanned Outages

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 17:34:00 GMT

As we approach the end of the holidays, many facilities will be back in full production, working towards their 2021 goals.

During the year, many manufacturing facilities will pre-plan annual maintenance outages to develop optimum efficiency. Examples such as ovens and furnaces, process piping, above ground process and holding tanks, tunnels, and conveyors (production lines) require routine industrial cleaning services to prevent unforeseen “downtime,” avoid safety hazards, reduce cost, and maintain efficiency.

Downtime for your equipment is not profitable. First Environmental strategically manages industrial services into the client’s time frame to decrease downtime. Some companies will pinpoint their slowest months for this type of work, including holidays. It is common to have electrical, plumbing/piping, cleaning, and facility vendors all working in the same space at the same time. Our project support includes hydroblasting, vacuum truck services (solids, liquids, sludges), waste handling (transport and disposal), and other services, including confined space work.

Many companies build downtime into their maintenance plan. For planned outages, it is essential to look ahead to the downtime and coordinate with your contractor to solidify scheduling (labor and equipment) and a clear understanding of what you want (budget, time frame, equipment, and performance).

We understand there are times when issues arise that require immediate assistance. In these cases, it is essential to assist in getting your process back online as quickly as possible.

First Environmental would be glad to look at any of your industrial cleaning projects and provide options. We wish all a prosperous 2021.

Ladder Safety in Industrial Environments

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 12:37:00 GMT

In many industrial workplaces, ladder use may seem like common sense. However, with 300 workers dying each year from ladder-related injuries, it’s imperative to discuss simple safety measures to prevent these accidents.

According to a study completed by the American Ladder Institute (ALI) All five of these ladder accident causes can be easily avoided by taking the following precautionary actions of basic ladder safety before ladder use.

Missing the last step of the ladder when climbing down.
Exercise caution when climbing down a ladder. Always face the ladder when climbing up or down, and don’t skip steps!
Overreaching while on the ladder.
When working from a ladder, keep your center of gravity and body between the side rails. If you can’t easily reach the project area once you have ascended the ladder, climb down the ladder and move the ladder closer to your project area.
The ladder was not the right size for the job.
One of the factors in determining the right ladder for the job is the length. A good rule of thumb when selecting a ladder is to calculate a person’s maximum reach height, which is approximately four feet higher than the height of the ladder.
The ladder was not on firm, level ground.
Clear trash, construction materials, and other obstructions away from the base and top of the ladder. The base of the ladder should be safely secured to prevent accidental movement. You can also use a ladder with non-slip feet or add outriggers or levelers to the bottom of an extension ladder to increase the footprint.
Three points of contact were not used when climbing the ladder.
Always maintain three contact points – two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand – when climbing up or down a ladder, which allows you to maintain your balance.

Proper Selection

Selecting the proper ladder is crucial to ladder safety. Each type of ladder provides different functions. It is essential to be aware of the height and weight restrictions for the ladder you want to use. Every ladder has a weight capacity that must be adhered to. If the weight on a ladder exceeds the limit, the ladder may buckle, and injuries are more likely to occur.

If you need to reach high places, choose the appropriate ladder with the correct height availability. If you are placing your ladder on another structure to make the ladder higher, you need to choose a different ladder with higher height availability.

Different types of ladders provide diverse functions. Below is an overview of the three most common ladders.

Step ladders are non-extending ladders that are free-standing, meaning they do not need to be leaned against another structure for support.
Extension ladders , also called straight ladders, are used to reach high places. Extension ladders need to be leaned against another structure for support.
Folding ladders are free-standing ladders used for inside jobs. They have more comprehensive steps than most ladders and store easily while not in use.

Safety Inspections

Before using the ladder, inspect for defects or damage. A ladder inspection is necessary upon receiving a new ladder, before each use, or after a ladder has fallen. Some aspects of the ladder to inspect include:

Cracked or missing steps
Splintered surfaces
Loose nails, bolts, or nuts
Corrosion or rust on treads
Rotted rails

Correct Ladder Angles

A simple way to know if the ladder you are using is safely placed, adhere to the four-to-one rule. You have to climb for every four feet of height; the ladder should be one foot from the wall’s base. Following this rule ensures a steady ladder.

It is always best to have another person hold the bottom of the ladder to make sure the ladder does not fall. However, if another person is not available, place the feet of the ladder on firm, level ground to prevent the ladder from falling.

Keep Contact

While climbing a ladder, it is essential to maintain three points of contact; if your body’s center is parallel to the ladder’s center, more likely to occur. If you need to use or transport tools that require more than one hand, ask for assistance.

At First Environmental, we exist to help our clients’ have more uptime and less downtime, improved operational efficiency, better quality control, and minimized cleaning costs. Call us 24/7 at 888-720-1330 for industrial cleaning services or emergency spill response .

Your Personal Guide to Pump Tanks

Tue, 20 Aug 2019 14:09:00 GMT

If your business works with an industrial cleaning contractor, then you’re probably familiar with pump tanks and what they do. Just in case you’re new to the game or need a quick refresher, here’s a little guide we’ve put together for you that delves deep into pump tanks.

So What Are Pump Tanks?

These industrial containers can be made up of a variety of materials, including concrete, fiberglass, and polyethylene. As part of a successful underground wastewater treatment system, pump tanks are responsible for collecting wastewater and intermittently submerging it into the soil.

No two wastewater distribution systems are alike. There are many types of on-site industrial treatment systems, including subsurface drips, spray systems, and low-pressure dosing. No matter what kind of wastewater distribution system you’re working with, each one will contain the same three components that make it run successfully: a treatment device, a pump tank, and a distribution system.

What all is included in a Pump Tank?

Even though you’ll probably never have to deal with the maintenance and repair of your wastewater distribution system, it’s still important to know what your industrial cleaning contractor is talking about when they’re giving you a run-down on the successes and failures of your system. These are all of the components that make up a pump tank:

A pump for transporting the water from the pump tank to the connecting distribution system. This is the most important component of the pump tank, so it’s important that the pump is able to handle the amount of wastewater that the pump tank will regularly contain, as well as carry out the pressure needed to move it.
An on/off pump control float that’s electronically powered and will operate based on the water levels in the pump tank. This control float will automatically turn on the pump when the water levels are at operating capacity and will turn off after the water recedes back to minimum levels.
A high-water alarm float to notify when the pump tank’s water levels have gone too high. When this alarm is activated, an alert will be sent to the facility owner.
A low-water off float which acts as a back-up to the on/off pump control float in the event that it fails to cut the power after the water levels have reached minimum operating levels. A low-water off float will only be implemented if your wastewater distribution system uses a control panel to operate.

The technical parts that make up a Pump Tank

In order for a pump tank to do its job properly, it must be watertight, large enough to hold the connected facility’s wastewater, and have the capability of storing the appropriate water levels as the on/off pump control float operates and the alarm floats activate.

A residential pump tank will hold up to 500 gallons, but there are larger tanks available in the event of a delay in repairing the pump tank after an alarm is triggered. A 1,000-gallon pump tank is ideal for industrial treatment systems like a subsurface drip distribution system.

More About The Pump

Being the most important part of the pump tank , the pump wears many hats when it comes to its part in operating the industrial treatment system as a whole. There are different kinds of pumps that can handle varying degrees of pressure and flow. If your pump stops working, it’s important that its replacement works under the same flow/pressure ratio.

There are also different pumps that specialize in handling various sizes of solids in the wastewater. A residential pump will do fine with solids up to 2” in diameter, and an industrial-level pump will be able to move much larger solids with ease.

There are two types of pumps:

Low-head pumps are used for large volumes of water that require low pressure levels for transport. A low-head pump will be used in industrial treatment systems such as low-pressure dosing systems and alternative collection systems.
High-head pumps are completely opposite- they move lower levels of wastewater under higher pressures. A high-head pump is ideal for subsurface drip distribution systems and spray distribution systems.

Congratulations! You are now an expert in Pump Tanks!

Now that you’ve reached the end of our in-depth guide to pump tanks, you have enough knowledge to understand what your industrial cleaning contractor is saying during their next visit. First Environmental is Georgia’s preferred industrial cleaning service provider. If your business is in need of a reliable industrial treatment system, call on First Environmental! 888-720-1330

Frequently Asked Questions about Pump Tanks

How often should I get my pump tank maintenanced?

It’s recommended that you schedule your industrial cleaning contractor to check on your pump tank once each year.

What do I do if my pump tank alarm goes off?

Immediately contact your industrial cleaning service provider and try to use as little water as possible until the issue is addressed.

Everything You Need to Know About A Vacuum Truck

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 15:19:00 GMT

You’ve probably seen them on the road, or on the job site: large industrial trucks with holding tanks, pumps, and suction hoses. They’re called vacuum trucks, and they provide a vital service to cities and businesses needing material removed from underground, overhead, or from a distance. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about a vacuum truck.

What is a vacuum truck used for?

Vacuum trucks , also known as vacuum tankers, are often used by cities to handle large-scale liquid and sludge clean up, most commonly in sewer and septic system maintenance. They can also be used in industrial and municipal settings to suction water and debris left from hydro-excavation or drilling jobs. From clearing mud to expose utility lines, to preventing sewer system overloads, vacuum trucks meet the needs of cities and industries requiring environmental clean up, storage tank upkeep, and waste management.

How does a vacuum truck work?

A vacuum truck works similarly to a shop vac. A powerful pump removes air from the holding tank, which creates a vacuum inside. Opening the primary and secondary shutoff valves on suction hoses forces the tank to try to equalize the pressure inside, letting the truck vacuum up solids , liquids and sludges. Just like a home vacuum, the quality of the equipment and the power of the pump affect suction power and the ability to handle difficult jobs.

Did you know? Vacuum trucks can save lives!

There’s more to vacuum trucks than sewers and septic systems, though. These trucks can be incredibly useful in rescue missions and environmental disasters. For hazardous waste or oil spills, vacuum trucks are essential to quickly clearing and storing any dangerous materials, which prevents them from contaminating the environment or entering local waterways. There have even been instances where vacuum trucks have been called in to assist emergency personnel with rescue missions. When disaster strikes and pits or trenches collapse on workers, emergency services can rely on vacuum tankers to quickly suction any sludge or soil from the accident site.

Vacuum trucks play an important role in keeping towns and work sites clean and safe. Whether it’s waste management, a hazmat emergency, or environmental cleanup, these big machines are able to handle messy jobs of any size. First Environmental is Georgia’s top-rated industrial cleaning contractor. Does your company need a vacuum tanker? Our state-of-the-art vehicles are here to serve you! Call today to schedule service or speak with a representative about your vacuum truck needs today!

First Environmental

Vacuuming Solids: Key Insights

Understanding What Vac Trucks Can Do

Not All Materials Behave the Same

The Art of Safe Material Handling

Choosing the Right Equipment

Efficiency Without Shortcuts

Combustible Dust Management: Protecting Your Facility with Expertise

What Is Combustible Dust?

Did you know?

Why Is Combustible Dust Management Critical?

Key Reasons to Prioritize Dust Control:

Common Industries Affected by Combustible Dust

Did you know?

How First Environmental Helps You Stay Safe

Comprehensive Dust Management Services:

Why Choose First Environmental?

Did you know?

Taking the First Step Toward Safer Operations

Managing Combustible Dust

Working Safe in Industrial Settings Takes Effort

The Importance of Safety Across Industries

The Role of Training, Experience, and Effort in Workplace Safety

Meeting Industry-Specific Safety Standards

Supporting a Culture of Safety

What to Look for in an Industrial Cleaning Company

Importance of Choosing the Right Industrial Cleaning Company

Utilizing the Right Equipment for Efficiency

Experienced Team of Project Managers and Industry Experts

Mission: Solving Customer Problems and Ensuring Satisfaction

Heavy Metal Dust Abatement Services

Health Risks of Heavy Metal Dust

Our Abatement Process

Safety

Regulatory Compliance in Waste Disposal

Disposal

Summary

All about Cleaning Services at a Food Manufacturing Facility

What are areas that may need attention?

What are times that industrial cleanings occur?

Disposal and Transportation

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FDA or other Audit Preparation

Pressure Washing 101

Everything You Need to Know About Industrial Pressure Washing

What is pressure washing used for?

How does a pressure washer work?

Did you know? Pressure washing saves money

Facility Outage Work, Planned Down Time, Scheduled Facility Repairs

Planned Outages

Industrial Cleaning for Planned Outages

Rely on First Environmental for Planned or Unplanned Outages

Water Jet Cutting Table Cleaning

What is a Water jet Cutting Table?

Parts of the Cutting System

Maintenance of the Catch Tank

What You Need to Know About Analytical/Sampling

Sampling for disposal purposes

Sampling and Surveys for Abatement

Monitoring for Health & Safety

Wrap-Up

What You Need to Know About Vacuuming Solids

Purpose of Vac Truck and Choosing the Right One for Solids

Moving Solids Using Vacuum

Some Interesting Considerations for Vacuuming Solids

Wrap-Up

40K Waterblasting for Cutting Steel

Water Stuff

Safety

The 40K in Action

Summary

Asbestos Abatement Servcies

Safety

Disposal

Summary

All About Tank Cleaning Services

Tank Cleaning Services

Safety

Disposal

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What is a Confined Space?