Bentonite Disposal in West Sussex
Responsible Waste Management for Construction and Drilling
Steel Drains provides safe, compliant bentonite disposal services for construction, civil engineering, and drilling projects across West Sussex and surrounding areas. We handle slurry collection, transport, and licensed disposal, helping you keep your site clear and environmentally compliant.
What Is Bentonite and Why Does It Require Specialist Disposal?
What Is Bentonite Slurry?
Bentonite is a natural clay used in piling, tunnelling, and drilling operations to support excavation walls and stabilise boreholes. When mixed with water, it forms a thick slurry that suspends solids and prevents collapse during construction.
Once used, this slurry becomes a waste material that contains soil particles, additives, and potentially other contaminants picked up during works.
Environmental and Site Risks
Used bentonite slurry can’t be left on-site or discharged into drains or watercourses. It must be removed and disposed of by a licensed waste carrier. If mishandled, it can:
- Block drainage systems
- Breach environmental regulations
- Lead to contamination of surrounding soil or water
- Delay project timelines and cause enforcement action
Steel Drains ensures your bentonite waste is collected safely, transported legally, and disposed of at a permitted facility.
Free no obligation quote!
No job too big or small, simply fill in the form below and we’ll give you a call to discuss your requirements.
Our Bentonite Disposal Service
Safe Collection and Fully Compliant Waste Handling
We offer a complete bentonite disposal service for construction and drilling contractors across West Sussex. From slurry collection to documentation, we handle every stage in line with UK environmental regulations.
Collection and Tankering
Our vacuum and slurry tankers are equipped to safely extract used bentonite slurry from containment pits, tanks, or bunded areas on your site. We handle both small and high-volume jobs with minimal disruption.
Licensed Disposal
Once collected, your waste is transported to an authorised treatment or disposal facility. We operate as a fully registered waste carrier, ensuring every load is dealt with legally and responsibly.
Full Documentation and Compliance
Every collection includes a Waste Transfer Note, appropriate EWC code (usually 01 05 05), and disposal site details. This keeps your site fully compliant with Duty of Care and Environment Agency requirements.
Common Causes of Pollution and Flooding We Respond To
Fast response to environmental and drainage emergencies
Our team is trained to respond to a wide range of incidents, from weather-related flooding to pollution caused by system failures or human error. Whether it is clean water, wastewater, sewage, or a chemical spill, we have the experience and equipment to deal with it safely.
- Heavy rainfall and surface water run off
- Blocked or collapsed drains and sewers
- Burst water mains and internal pipework failures
- Rising groundwater and poor drainage
- Septic tank or cesspit overflows
- Failed or undersized pump systems
- Spills from oil, fuel, or chemical storage
- Sewage backflow from main sewer lines
- Pollution caused by cross connections or drainage mismanagement
No matter the source or severity, Steel Drains provides rapid, compliant response to reduce damage and restore safety.
Why Choose Steel Drains?
Professional, reliable, and fully compliant emergency Pollution and Flood Response services
Fast Response Across West Sussex
Based in West Sussex, we offer rapid service to sites across the county and surrounding areas, ideal for reactive clearances and planned waste collections.
Fully Licensed and Insured
Steel Drains is a registered waste carrier with full environmental compliance and public liability insurance, giving you peace of mind on every job.
Construction Waste Specialists
We understand the pressures of construction and geotechnical work. Our team works quickly and safely to remove bentonite waste without holding up your schedule.
When Should Bentonite Waste Be Removed?
Bentonite slurry should be removed as soon as tanks, pits, or bunded areas reach capacity, or when works are completed. Leaving waste on-site increases the risk of overflow, contamination, or enforcement action.
For ongoing drilling or piling projects, regular pump-outs can help maintain productivity and avoid unnecessary delays. We offer scheduled collections or one-off disposals to suit your site requirements.
Free no obligation quote!
No job too big or small, simply fill in the form below and we’ll give you a call to discuss your requirements.
Book Bentonite Waste Collection Today
If your site produces bentonite slurry from piling, drilling, or excavation works, Steel Drains can remove and dispose of it safely and legally. We offer fast response times, competitive rates, and a fully compliant service across West Sussex.
Get in touch today to arrange a collection or request a free, no-obligation quote. Our team is ready to help keep your project on track and your site compliant.
- 01903 259 487
- 07946 061 074
- office@steeldrains.co.uk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bentonite slurry and why does it need special disposal?
Bentonite slurry is a clay-based material used in construction and drilling. Once used, it becomes a controlled waste that must be collected and disposed of at a licensed facility to meet environmental regulations.
Where does bentonite waste come from?
It’s commonly produced during piling, tunnelling, directional drilling, and other ground engineering works where support fluids are used.
Is bentonite hazardous waste?
In most cases, no. Used bentonite is classified as non-hazardous unless contaminated. We use the correct EWC codes and assess the waste accordingly.
Can I dispose of bentonite slurry down a drain?
No. Disposing of bentonite or slurry into surface drains or foul sewers is illegal and can result in fines or enforcement. It must be collected by a licensed waste carrier.
Do you provide documentation for compliance?
Yes. We provide Waste Transfer Notes, EWC codes, and disposal records for every collection to ensure full Duty of Care compliance.
How is bentonite slurry removed from site?
We use vacuum and slurry tankers to safely extract the waste from pits, tanks, or bunded areas and transport it to a licensed treatment facility.
Do you work with construction and piling contractors?
Yes. We regularly support construction companies, piling firms, and drilling contractors across West Sussex and nearby areas.
Do you offer scheduled collections for ongoing works?
Yes. We can arrange regular visits to keep your site clear during long-term projects.
How quickly can you respond?
We offer same-day or next-day service in most cases, depending on location and site access.
Are you a registered waste carrier?
Yes. Steel Drains is fully licensed and operates in compliance with Environment Agency guidelines.