Environmental site assessments are used to determine the nature and impact of any potential contamination on a site. Environmental site assessments are typically requested by planning authorities for site rezoning or redevelopment and are also useful for due diligence in property transfers.
Geo-Logix has assessed and remediated hundreds of contaminated sites around Australia. We know that a well-designed site assessment is critical for quantifying contamination risks. Environmental site assessment done right, the first time, results in costs savings down the line. Liabilities can be better quantified, and risk of unknown finds significantly reduced. Our technical expertise, industry experience and deep understanding of legislative requirements will ensure you meet your project objectives.
Site Assessment Process
Phase 1 – The first stage of assessment is known as a Phase 1 or Preliminary Site Investigation. The main objective is to identify past and present activities on the land which could have resulted in land contamination. As a preliminary site assessment, it mostly involves a desktop study of land records and a site inspection in order to determine the potential for site contamination. Occasionally, preliminary sampling and testing may form part of the scope depending on the site and the proposed land use.
Phase 2 – If the potential for land contamination exists then a detailed site investigation is required. The overall objective is to characterise the contamination so that decisions can be made in respect of any potential risk of harm the contamination may pose to human health and the environment. The investigation may include soil, groundwater and ground gas sampling and testing to define the nature and extent of contamination. The sampling plan is guided by the former activities that occurred on the land. Any identified risks are then considered in the context of the intended site use and surrounding environment to determine whether remediation of the contamination is required.
Phase 3 – Remedial Action Plan (RAP). The RAP is a working document that details the proposed remediation approach. It documents the remediation strategy and outlines the management controls to be employed in order to protect human health and the environment during the remediation phase. It also details the sampling strategy and method that will be used to validate the remediation.
Phase 4 – Validation. The validation report documents the remediation undertaken on site and the results of the validation sampling. Typically, it will confirm the remediation objectives and regulatory requirements have been met and the site is suitable for the intended purpose. The report may also include a component for continued on-site management of contamination or long-term environmental monitoring.
Right Advice First Time
Not every site will require all four stages of the site assessment process. Geo-Logix’s team of scientists and engineers have assessed and remediated hundreds of contaminated sites and will provide you with cost effective advice to ensure a successful outcome for your project.
Suitably Qualified Practitioners
In Australia, characterisation of site contamination needs to be conducted by professional environmental practitioners that are suitably qualified and experienced. The EPA recognises SCPA and CEnvP certifications as a good indicator of an acceptable standard of competency.