MK-Ferguson
Project: Demolition of the K-25 Cooling Towers
Relevant Experience
- Handling of Sludges
- Demolition Work
- OSHA Compliance
- Industrial Hygiene
- Waste Disposal
- Rad Protection
- Site Safety
- Task Hazard Analysis
- Health and Safety Plan
- Pollution Control Plan
Summary
Hudson Valley Environmental performed this project under the Department fo Energy's (DOE) Oak Ridge Operations EPIC program. The location of the work is at the K-25 plant site in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, which is operated by Lockheed Martin Energy Systems, Inc., for the DOE.
The project consisted of the removal of debris, vegetation and 69,000 cubic feet of sediment that had accumulated in the basins of 3 large cooling towers since they were taken out of service in 1985. Included was the removal of any rainwater that accumulated during the project. The sediment was dewatered to a paint filter test level and was drummed for shipment.
On an earlier contract, Hudson Valley Environmental removed the superstructures of these towers that were principally comprised of wood contaminated with arsenic, chromium and a low level of radioactivity (uranium and technicium) some of which had fallen into the sediment.
HVE carried out all work on this project in strict accordance with all OSHA Regulations; USEPA Regulations; DOT Regulation: TDEC Rules, existing regulatory, permits and compliance agreements; and MK-Ferguson Performance Specifications, Subcontract General Conditions and General Provision; and the HVE Operating Manual.
Problems Encountered: This project was started in the late fall; therefore, adverse weather conditions, in the form of rain progressing to snow and ice as the season changed, were encountered from the beginning. Segments of wood had to be removed from the sediment prior to dewatering in a filter press necessitating a three-state parallel screening operation.
Prior to commencing work, HVE developed a work plan, a health & safety plan, a waste disposal and a pollution control plan. HVE manned the job throughout all work with a Health & Safety Officer.
