- Client: Confidential (Through Consultant)
- Location: Airport Hangar, Midwest United States
- Industry Sector: Aviation / Environmental Compliance
- Project Type: PFAS Removal, Fire Suppression System Flush, Waste Disposal
- Contractor: ERG Environmental Services
Project Overview
ERG Environmental Services was engaged through a consultant to execute the full decontamination and removal of a PFAS-containing fire suppression system located in an active airport hangar. The system posed both an environmental and regulatory risk, and the client required a rapid, compliant solution performed under the supervision of a licensed sprinkler engineer. ERG successfully drained and dismantled the PFAS storage infrastructure, flushed the suppression lines per specifications, and managed transportation and disposal of all hazardous waste materials.
Project Challenges & Client Needs
Operating within an airport environment introduced several layers of complexity and compliance sensitivity. ERG was tasked with:
- Rapid Mobilization: Work had to be completed on an expedited timeline to minimize potential PFAS exposure.
- Secure Access: All ERG personnel and subcontractors were required to pass background checks to gain airport clearance.
- Engineering Compliance: Flushing and draining had to meet sprinkler system code under the direction of a licensed engineer.
- Certified Waste Handling: All removed materials had to be transported and disposed of at an approved hazardous waste facility.
ERG’s Turnkey Environmental Response
ERG delivered a comprehensive solution, managing the project from deactivation to final disposal:
1. System Deactivation & Dismantling
- Drained the PFAS concentrate from the storage holding tank.
- Safely removed the internal liner and dissected the storage tank for extraction.
- Decommissioned all fire suppression sprinkler headers across the hangar.
2. PFAS Line Flushing
- Performed a water-based flush of the sprinkler piping in accordance with provided engineering specifications.
- Ensured all residues were captured and contained for proper waste handling.
- Executed all work under supervision of a licensed fire protection engineer to maintain compliance and system integrity.
3. Certified Waste Profiling, Transport & Disposal
- ERG’s in-house team profiled all PFAS-contaminated liquids and solids.
- Materials were containerized and transported under ERG’s DOT-certified hazmat protocols.
- All waste was disposed of at a fully approved and permitted facility specializing in PFAS treatment.
Certifications & Quality Credentials
ERG brought deep regulatory expertise and certified personnel to ensure a compliant project execution:
- HAZWOPER Certified Field Personnel
- DOT-Certified Waste Transporters
- Licensed Environmental Engineers & Technicians
- Internal Waste Profiling Capabilities
These qualifications ensured zero compliance gaps, full documentation, and verifiable disposal of all hazardous waste streams.
Value Delivered to the Client
| Key Benefit | Outcome Delivered by ERG |
| PFAS Risk Mitigation | Complete removal of PFAS-containing fluids and infrastructure |
| Regulatory Compliance | Project conducted under engineering guidance and disposal laws |
| Operational Continuity | Minimal downtime for the hangar; rapid project turnaround |
| Security Clearance Management | Background checks handled without delay or incident |
| Turnkey Waste Management | Profiling, packaging, transport, and disposal handled end-to-end |
Summary
ERG Environmental Services successfully executed a sensitive PFAS remediation project in a high-security airport hangar by combining technical expertise, environmental compliance, and rapid mobilization. The project not only removed a significant environmental hazard, but also restored the integrity of the fire suppression system—ensuring future compliance and peace of mind for the facility operators.