The construction industry is expanding rapidly, but there is growing concern of its impact on the environment. In recent years, the hot topic has been sustainable construction methods and practices.

The government and military construction contracts involve stringent rules and guidelines to maintain the environment during the construction process. According to studies, the construction processes contribute to almost 50% landfill waste, 40% water contamination, and 23% air pollution.

Whether private or government contracts, nearly all construction projects impact the environment. The growing weather changes and climate change is directly influenced by the

• type of construction materials
• the use of natural resources
• waste management
• type of land and soil where the construction will take place

The federal government has devised certain environmental guidelines that construction companies and contractors must follow. The goal of using sustainable methods is to reduce carbon footprint and minimize energy usage.

The Importance of Dredging and Turbidity Monitoring

Dredging is a common process that involves the removal of sediments and debris from the lakes, rivers, and seas. The dredging process is important for either new construction, maintenance, or expansion of ports, harbors, and shipping channels.

The construction projects along the lakes, streams, rivers and coastal locations usually impact the local water quality. Turbidity is the name given to the method that helps to determine water clarity. The suspended elements such as sand, silt, and clay easily mix and affect water quality.

The dredging process alters the flow of water and increases the frequency at which the silt and sand mix with water. The excessive concentration of sediment results in a high level of turbidity, which threatens water quality and marine life. Apart from mixing sand and silt, certain materials add to the water once construction starts. The contamination of water directly threatens marine wildlife and other organisms.

Turbidity monitoring is an essential step in the environmental assessment of a federal construction project. The various environmental impacts of turbidity are

• Increase the chance of disease and impact growth of fish and other marine animals
• Prevent the development of fish eggs and larvae
• Alter the natural movement and migration of fish
• Food scarcity for fish makes it harder for them to survive
• Makes it harder to catch fish

Titan University offers numerous online Safety, Control, and Environmental courses. The courses are necessary to certify the skill of individuals involved in government construction projects such as USACE (US Army Corps of Engineers) and NAVFAC (Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command).

For example, the Turbidity Monitoring for Dredging Operations Course is valuable for SSHO (Site Safety and Health Officer) and Quality Control Manager when performing environmental base study. The course consists of 14 Modules that cover every aspect of dredging and turbidity monitoring.

The first few lessons focus on dredging and its impact on the environment. Conversely, the latter part of the course emphasizes on Turbidity test and monitoring. The individuals enrolling in the online course will learn the parameters, equipment, and tools to monitor turbidity.

One of the key things you will learn is ‘navigational dredging,’ which increases the depth of water channels for boats and ships to pass and anchor. This process helps to reduce the impact of dredging on fish and other marine wildlife.

Usually, dredging operations cause extra turbidly, so assessment and evaluation are required. Not many people may know, but dredging is a critical step for various construction projects such as

• Waterway projects that involve excavation and construction of bridges, underwater tunnels, piers, and docks
• Land reclamation projects
• Deepening waterways to allow ships and large vessels a passage with maximum depth

The Turbidity Monitoring for Dredging Operations Course helps determine the extent of turbidity fluctuations. The Quality Control Manager or SSHO will assess and monitor turbidity levels before, during, and after construction. The extensive assessment and regular check help to identify the developments that indicate erosion along the coastal and offshore locations.

The course also includes the numerous guidelines devised by USACE and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) to ensure proper dredging methods and potential environmental impact. The continuous monitoring efforts allow SSHO and project managers to respond if sediment levels exceed minimum criteria.

The online course is ideal not only for SSHO and Quality Control Manager but also for contractors and workers. There are short quizzes at the end of each module that you need to pass. To obtain a certificate, you need to pass the final examination with 70% marks.

Bottom Line

Titan University is one of the only recognized institutions offering certifications for Government Construction Projects. The online course will allow you to know about the requirements, expectations, and goals of Turbidity Monitoring during Dredging Operations. The goal is the removal of sediment that results in minimal impact on the environment and underwater ecosystem.