- Client: Confidential Manufacturing Facility
- Location: Mid-Michigan, United States
- Industry Sector: Manufacturing / Industrial Wastewater Management
- Project Type: Sludge Removal, Wastewater Flow Maintenance, Waste Transport & Disposal
- Contractor: ERG Environmental Services
Project Overview
ERG Environmental Services was contracted to perform a trench clean-out for a manufacturing facility in Mid-Michigan. The plant operates a covered sluiceway system to convey non-hazardous wastewater to the municipal sewer system. However, sediment buildup in the trench caused sludge accumulation, leading to flow restrictions and unpleasant odors within the plant.
ERG was tasked with vacuuming out the sludge while keeping the system operational—an essential requirement for the client’s 24/7 production schedule. The clean-out process included annual and as-needed maintenance areas and required strategic planning to divert flow without causing operational disruptions.
Project Challenges & Client Needs
ERG faced several unique project requirements:
- Continuous Plant Operation: The trench could not be shut down during the cleaning process, requiring real-time flow diversion strategies.
- Odor & Flow Concerns: Accumulated sludge posed both a productivity and environmental concern.
- Non-Intrusive Execution: The client requested minimal disruption to production, even in active areas of the plant.
ERG’s Turnkey Environmental Solution
ERG deployed its large-capacity press vacuum truck and a crew trained in compliant waste handling to complete the clean-out.
1. Sludge Extraction
- Deployed vacuum equipment to remove accumulated sludge from the trench system.
- Executed a phased cleaning approach across different trench sections—some on a fixed schedule, others on-demand.
2. Real-Time Water Diversion
- Developed and implemented a water diversion protocol to maintain continuous wastewater flow during cleaning.
- Prevented any plant disruption while ensuring full trench access.
3. Certified Waste Handling & Disposal
- ERG personnel profiled and containerized waste material on-site.
- Transported waste to an approved facility using DOT-certified vehicles and trained drivers.
- Completed disposal under all applicable state and federal environmental regulations.
Certifications & Quality Credentials
ERG’s work was supported by critical qualifications and regulatory compliance:
- HAZWOPER-Certified Field Technicians
- DOT-Certified Waste Transport Personnel
- In-House Waste Profiling Experts
- Licensed Waste Hauling Operations
These certifications ensured full legal compliance, verified waste handling procedures, and complete documentation for the client’s internal records.
Value Delivered to the Client
| Key Benefit | Outcome Delivered by ERG |
| Operational Continuity | Maintained 24/7 plant operation during full trench cleaning |
| Odor Mitigation | Eliminated sludge-related smells for a cleaner work environment |
| Improved Wastewater Flow | Restored full flow capacity of trench system |
| Compliance & Peace of Mind | Certified profiling, transport, and disposal of all waste materials |
| Long-Term Partnership Value | Delivered ongoing maintenance services to reduce future build-up |
Summary
ERG Environmental Services demonstrated expert planning, execution, and environmental compliance in servicing a critical trench system for a manufacturing facility. By coordinating real-time wastewater diversion, certified sludge removal, and compliant disposal, ERG provided a non-intrusive, high-impact solution that improved site operations, employee experience, and wastewater performance.