SRLM Mass Excavation
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, MD

Project Overview

The addition of the Surgery, Radiology, and Laboratory Medicine (SRLM) Building at the NIH represents a significant expansion, encompassing 545,000 square feet of new surgical suites, laboratories, and offices. This project illustrates 3D Enviro's critical role in managing unexpected environmental hazards to ensure construction progresses smoothly and on schedule.

Challenge: Unexpected Hazardous Materials

During the initial site preparation, the discovery of asbestos-containing duct banks and soil contaminated with petroleum posed a significant threat to the project's timeline. These findings necessitated an immediate response to prevent extended delays and ensure compliance with environmental safety standards.

Solution: Expert Remediation and Project Management

3D Enviro conducted a comprehensive initial survey that identified numerous instances of asbestos and petroleum contamination. Collaborating closely with NIH’s Division of Environmental Protection, Occupational Health and Safety, the Maryland Department of the Environment, and the general contractor, 3D Enviro formulated a meticulous soil remediation plan.

Asbestos Abatement Process

The abatement process involved:

  • Soil and Material Removal: Asbestos-contaminated soil, steam lines, and concrete duct banks were systematically demolished and removed.
  • Safety and Compliance: All removed materials were carefully handled with skid steers and an excavator, then loaded into dump trucks lined with polyethylene sheet plastic for secure transport to a designated landfill certified to handle friable asbestos debris.

Petroleum Contamination Remediation

  • Site Over-Excavation: Areas with detectable petroleum diesel concentrations were over-excavated to ensure the complete removal of contaminated soil.
  • Testing and Validation: Follow-up testing confirmed the site's successful remediation, with state and landfill approvals obtained for disposing of the oil-contaminated debris.

Results: Seamless Continuation of Construction

Approximately 1,300 cubic yards of material were removed, including about 480 linear feet of cement and transite duct bank conduit, plus 400 linear feet of steam line with black asbestos outer mastic. This extensive remediation was accomplished under challenging conditions but was completed efficiently due to 3D Enviro’s proactive management and coordination with key stakeholders.

Impact: Ensuring Timely Project Completion

By swiftly addressing and remediating these environmental hazards, 3D Enviro prevented potential project delays, allowing the SRLM construction to proceed without significant disruptions. This intervention underscores our expertise in seamlessly integrating environmental safety solutions into large-scale construction projects, ensuring they remain on track both time-wise and financially.

Continuing Collaboration

The successful management of environmental hazards at the SRLM site has fortified 3D Enviro’s ongoing partnership with the NIH, positioning us as a reliable provider of environmental remediation solutions for future projects.

Conclusion

At 3D Enviro, we are committed to safeguarding construction timelines and budgets from unforeseen environmental challenges. Our work at the NIH exemplifies our capability to handle complex remediation tasks efficiently, ensuring compliance, safety, and sustainability.

Ready to Enhance Your Project’s Success?

If you’re facing environmental challenges or just want to ensure your project proceeds without interruptions, contact 3D Enviro today. Our team is ready to provide expert consultation and services tailored to your unique needs. Get in touch with us to see how we can help keep your project on track, safely and efficiently.
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Gray asbestos containing material that was remediated.
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Asbestos containing steam lines and concrete duct bank that needed to be removed