Site Characterization is an important step towards
evaluating the degree of contamination and the areas of concern within
a site.
- A well-characterized site can reduce the risk of unexpected expenses
due to remediation, disposal and potential hidden liabilities.
- Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs) provide site characteristics
that will determine the scope of work needed to mitigate environmental,
health and ecological risks associated with the property.
- A detailed Risk Assessment can then determine the potential risks
and pathways of contamination exposure to the human environment.
The Risk Assessment should include limits for acceptable exposure
over short and long-term periods as well as constant versus periodic
exposure.
Site characterization should include:
- The size of the property
- History of site
- Stored chemicals
- Use and history of neighbouring properties
- Contamination and areas of concern
- Risk exposure to workers and general public during cleanup and
at final land usage.
The BROWNFIELDS TOOLBOX has this
as an important component (STEP 2:
Evaluation) in
Conducting Research (due diligence) towards assessing a potential
contaminated site or brownfield property. |
