18 AUGUST 2026 WorldWide Drilling Resource® Hidden Risk in Everyday Water Use Adapted from Information by CONEXPO-CON/AGG A partially filled water tank can turn a routine haul into a serious safety risk. Danger peaks when the tank sits around the halfway mark. This is when water is free to shift and create momentum inside the truck. That internal movement can quickly destabilize a vehicle, especially during sudden stops or sharp turns. This is a “worst-case scenario from a safety standpoint because that water likes to move,” noted Josh Swank of Philippi-Hagenbuch Inc. To improve safety risks, it is critical to understand the design of the tank itself plays a major role in controlling water movement. Optimal tank design prevents water surges during braking or turning, especially when tanks are partially filled. Contractors should look for tanks with built-in safety features to reduce internal movement. Lowering the tank’s center of gravity through mounting systems aligning with the truck chassis can also improve stability. Newer tanks may also include external and internal access doors to allow air and light into the tank, reducing bacteria buildup and creating a safer, more comfortable maintenance environment. Full-sized internal doors enable workers to walk inside the tank instead of crawling, improving safety during inspections and cleaning. Contractors must spray water on haul roads, stockpiles, and other jobsite areas to minimize airborne dust and dangerous particulates like crystalline silica. This not only maintains visibility, it also protects workers’ health, as long-term exposure can lead to serious conditions. Once water is on-site, how it’s applied can make the difference between effective dust control and wasted resources. Spraying water in the morning allows it to last longer as temperatures rise, reducing overall usage. However, applying too much water at once can oversaturate haul roads, creating unsafe driving conditions and wasting material. Multiple factors contribute to efficient water application. It is important to be aware of each step of the process. At the end of the day, all aspects of water management - from delivery to application - involve decisions that affect safety outcomes. The more control you have over how water moves in the tank and on the jobsite will lower the risk to both equipment and, most importantly, workers. C&G www.starironworks.com 257 Caroline Street Punxsutawney, PA 15767 800-927-0560 • 814-427-2555 Fax: 814-427-5164 Serving the Construction Industry Booth 1712
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