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Personnel at BEI have been performing environmental assessments for many years. In a typical environmental assessment, BEI evaluates actual or potential environmental liabilities associated with current and past activities at or near a site. Environmental assessments can be performed as part of a property transfer or may be required by governmental regulations. The important aspects of an assessment include researching the site history and investigating site conditions. Depending on the specific conditions at the property, an environmental site assessment can range from a historical review to a detailed investigation of site conditions, including analysis of surface and subsurface media. Environmental assessments are usually performed in phases. The historical review phase (Phase I) identifies areas where potential contamination may exist. If contamination is suspected, a site investigation (Phase II) will be recommended. If the Phase II investigation indicates significant contamination may exist, a detailed site investigation (Phase III) will be recommended. Historical Research BEI will research the historical activities at and near the property. The activities will typically include the following: (1) review of historical information such as aerial photographs and USGS topographic maps; (2) personal interviews with individuals familiar with past site activities; (3) review of past operations and waste disposal practices; (4) review of local, state, and federal publications on hydrogeologic and environmental conditions at and near the property, including CERCLA, CERCLIS, SARA Title III, and state LUST and cleanup lists; (5) a site inspection to evaluate present site conditions; (6) a search for liens on the property; and (7) a detailed report with findings from the Phase I historical research. Site Investigation If the Phase I historical research indicates an area or areas of potential environmental liability, a site investigation is typically warranted. The Phase II site investigation typically includes soil and groundwater sampling and analysis, but can also include a soil vapor analysis, geophysical survey, and UST testing (if any tanks are known to be present). The Phase II program is developed to provide a thorough evaluation of areas suspected of having a degree of contamination. If the results of the Phase II investigation indicate the potential for significant contamination at the property, a Phase III program is typically warranted. This detailed analysis of site conditions requires additional site investigation to delineate the extent of contamination, and may include an endangerment/exposure assessment and an evaluation of remedial alternatives. All site activities will be performed in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. |
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BASCOR Environmental, Inc.
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