Vacuum Excavation

Vacuum excavation or “soft dig” is a non-mechanical and less invasive method of removing soil, sand, rocks or other debris often to expose underground utilities. A blast of air or water is first directed into the dig site to loosen soil and break up any large materials. It is often referred to as air vacuum excavation or hydro vacuum excavation depending on how the soil is loosened for removal. An air vacuum hose is then used to remove the debris from the hole and transfer it to a holding tank located on the truck or trailer. Stored excavated materials can be transported elsewhere or left on-site to be re-used as fill material. Hydro excavation prevents the re-use of wet material for refilling the hole.

Vacuum excavation greatly reduces the need for manual hand digging and potential for damage to existing underground utilities. Vacuum excavation technologies greatly reduce the danger and associated health risks for workers on site. This process allows for workers to stay safe on the surface and helps to prevent cave-ins. Excavators performing the work don’t need to worry about destroying the existing infrastructure when using vacuum excavation, which could result in the need for costly repairs and delays. Vacuum excavation is advantageous when working in various soil conditions as water can be used to break-up and remove the soil effectively. Vacuum excavation, when performed in accordance with accepted industry practices, is recognized as being safer than hand digging and heavy equipment excavation.

Many of us have discovered that relying on as-builts drawings and marked utility locations are only the best estimates of where these buried items may be, and the exact locations can vary. The use of vacuum excavation safely uncovers the sometimes unknown buried items to complete projects effectively and efficiently.

Since vacuum excavation technology is low-impact and non-destructive, it’s gaining in popularity as the preferred excavation method for many industries across Florida and the southeast US. Carefully performed vacuum excavation can be less destructive than hand excavation in most circumstances. Regardless of the excavation method you choose, always remember to have utilities professionally located, and utilize safe excavation equipment.