Underpinning 324 Building: Supporting Hanford Nuclear Site Remediation Efforts-Video

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Video Summary

Mamoun of Nicholson Construction describes underpinning work at Hanford’s 324 Building, a former radiological research facility contaminated by radioactive materials. Built in 1962, the building was among the last Hanford facilities awaiting cleanup because contamination beneath it posed risks to workers and nearby groundwater.<br /><br />The project used micropiles to stabilize the building before planned soil removal. Extensive load testing informed the design, and 13 micropiles were installed. Work was complicated by large cobbles and boulders, restricted space, a ban on water during drilling, and cesium contamination that could become airborne. The team developed an enclosed air-drilling and filtration system, detailed contingency plans for grouting, and procedures for handling potentially contaminated casing and tools.<br /><br />Workers also used radiation monitoring, specialized protective equipment, strict work procedures, and extensive training. Although micropile installation was completed, further contamination discovered during permeation-grouting work halted the project before that phase could continue.

Keywords

Hanford 324 Building

micropile underpinning

radiological contamination

groundwater cleanup

radiation safety

contaminated soil remediation