WHAT MIGHT BE?

Full desk top study to identify previous and present day uses of the site and surrounding area together with geology, hydrogeology and hydrology. Receptors within an appropriate area of influence and the potential for hazards to occur. Identification of likely pollutant linkages and preliminary development of conceptual models. Then to devise a site investigation strategy that will meet the requirements of the situation and relevant legislation.

Non intrusive surveys can be useful where there is risk of creating new and potentially dangerous pollutant linkages (such as contaminating aquifers or spreading contamination into clean areas). Simple walk over surveys with sensitive detection equipment or comprehensive geophysical surveys which map the subterranean landscape, can be undertaken.

WHAT IS?

Intrusive surveys are invariably necessary to identify and quantify hazards. Hand augers, trial pits, bore holes, monitoring wells, large or small. Soil, water or gas carefully sampled in accordance with current guidance and codes of practice. Testing for the right chemicals and materials so as not to waste scarce resources. Mapping spatial distribution throughout the site. Understanding the difference between quantity and concentration. Identifying key pollutant linkages and formalising conceptual models.

DOES IT MATTER?

Risk assessments finally have to be undertaken to decide whether the things that you have found could be a problem to any of the statutory receptors listed in the legislation, but only in the circumstances presented. This part is a nightmare, but the difficulties presented by the shocking risk assessment guidance can (sometimes) be overcome.