When actual or potential contamination is identified on a site then a Phase 2 Environmental Site Assessment is required to investigate the severity of contamination and make decisions on any potential risks posed to human health and the environment.
Geo-Logix has performed hundreds of complex environmental and geotechnical investigations and have extensive experience in diverse sites and contaminants. Our expertise in geology, hydrogeology, engineering, chemistry and toxicology combined with an extensive regulatory knowledge will deliver dependable advice to manage the risks and compliance issues of your site.
Objectives
A Phase 2 environmental site assessment, also called a detailed site investigation, is used to characterise contamination that may be present on a site and determine the potential risks to human health and the environment in light of the proposed land use. Objectives for the assessment such as rezoning, compliance issues, soil disposal, remediation or land transfers will guide the assessment along with the Phase 1 findings.
Scope of Work
The number and type of samples to be collected and tested is driven by the assessment objectives and the former activities that occurred on the land. Similarly, the sampling plan is dictated by the likely spatial characteristics of the contaminants, their mobility in the environment, the intended land use and the surrounding environment. Soil is mostly tested while groundwater, surface water, soil vapour, indoor air and sediment may also be analysed if past land uses suggest contamination may be present. Off-site testing may also be warranted if contaminants have migrated across site boundaries.
Laboratory testing is employed in a Phase 2 environmental site assessment to characterise the type and concentration of contaminants. Results are analysed in light of national and state guidelines to assess whether a specific area presents unacceptable risks to the environment or human health.
The scope of works should also include a Phase 2 site investigation report providing comprehensive information on the site, the investigations performed, contamination findings and potential effects. It must also make recommendations for remediation or site management if required.
How many samples?
Official standards guide the number of samples needed for a Phase 2 environmental site assessment along with the type and expected distribution of the contaminants. When less than prescribed samples are analysed, uncertainty on the occurrence and extent of contamination increases. A high level of uncertainty may then increase the financial and compliance risks of a project.
What Next?
If a Phase 2 environmental site assessment identifies potential risk of harm from contamination on a site, a Remediation Action Plan is developed to protect human health and / or the environment.
Experience You Can Count On
Our project managers are technically qualified with hands-on field experience. We give you the right information to deal with the risks and compliance issues of your site.