Construction Site Audit

A construction site audit offers a comprehensive assessment of land conditions before any development begins. This structured process identifies risks, traces of contamination and any factors that could affect ground stability or water quality across the site.

The audit examines a range of geological and hydrological considerations, including soil composition, groundwater movement, and the presence of nearby rivers or water sources. It also reviews planning records and the historical uses of the site to build a clear picture of past activities that may have left contaminants in the ground.

Where there are indications of potential contamination, targeted soil sampling and borehole installation can be carried out to collect accurate data. Boreholes allow for detailed water analysis to determine whether pollutants have entered the groundwater and to what extent remediation may be needed.

Once the investigation is complete, a remediation plan can be developed to address any contaminants identified.

Create a Site Waste Management Plan

Creating a site waste management plan helps you meet all regulatory requirements for wastewater handling while maintaining efficient, well-organised operations. A clear plan sets out how raw materials will be managed from collection through to disposal. This can help you to reduce environmental impact, support compliance across the project, save costs and reduce waste.

A construction waste disposal plan will detail the types of wastewater your activities will generate, the estimated volumes, and the locations where it will be stored prior to collection. It will also specify the frequency of collections, the licensed contractors responsible for removal and the documentation required to evidence compliance.

By understanding these factors in advance, construction teams can set up robust procedures that will keep daily operations running smoothly. A comprehensive wastewater management plan also supports cost reduction by identifying how the site can reuse materials for specific processes - such as dust suppression or equipment washing.

The plan will record how all wastewater will be handled, including segregation of contaminated and uncontaminated water, the methods used for treatment or neutralisation, and how quantities will be measured and reported. Clear record-keeping of how you handle and recycle construction waste ensures you can demonstrate compliance with environmental regulations and client requirements at every stage.

Segregated Areas for Different Types of Construction Waste

Allocating specific areas for activities that generate different types of construction and demolition waste supports compliance with environmental regulations and helps keep operations efficient and safe. Clear segregation reduces the risk of cross-contamination between waste streams and provides a structured approach to handling building materials across the site.

This may include setting up a dedicated vehicle washing station to contain and collect wastewater separately from other hazardous substances. Segregated areas can also be established for storing contaminated water, silt, or residues before collection and proper disposal.

Use Licensed Waste Carriers

The Environmental Protection Act 1990 and the Control of Pollution (Amendment) Act 1989 set out clear legal obligations for the handling, transport and disposal of hazardous waste. Under this legislation, any person or company involved in moving or managing waste materials must hold the correct licences to carry out these activities lawfully.

As the producer and owner of the building waste, you remain responsible for it even once it has left your construction site. If an unlicensed operator mishandles or disposes of your waste illegally, you could still be held liable and face prosecution, fines or other enforcement action. This duty of care applies to all construction waste, including wastewater, contaminated materials and sludge.

Licensed waste carriers are trained in the correct disposal methods for waste construction materials. They understand the regulations that apply to each type of waste, including volume limits, classification codes, and the procedures for completing consignment notes and maintaining records. They also know how to prevent spills, avoid cross-contamination and manage any environmental risks that arise during transit.

Using licensed waste carriers such as Universal Tankers helps you meet these requirements for responsible disposal of waste and protect your business from the consequences of non-compliance.

How Universal Tankers Can Help With Your Construction Waste Management

Universal Tankers provides a comprehensive range of waste management services tailored to the construction industry. With over 20 years of experience, our team has the expertise to support construction projects of any scale across England and Scotland.

We operate 20 depots strategically located to guarantee next-day service to any site in England and Scotland. This means you can keep your project on schedule, with prompt removal of wastewater, leachate and sludge whenever required.

Our service packages are flexible, allowing you to arrange regular collections or book one-off visits as needed. We also provide emergency call-outs to help you respond quickly to unexpected issues and minimise disruption to your operations.

In addition to waste removal, we can deliver non-potable water to support site activities such as dust suppression and equipment washing. All waste is transported and disposed of responsibly, in line with current regulations covering construction and demolition materials.

Universal Tankers is fully CLOCS, FORS and Achilles accredited, demonstrating our commitment to the highest standards of health and safety. Whether you need scheduled collections of hazardous materials, emergency support or reliable supply services, we deliver professional solutions you can depend on.