Site Assessment and Verification
Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs) are used to make informed decisions about property transactions, identify certain baseline environmental conditions, assist in meeting regulatory requirements, and as an initial step in remediation. Generally ESAs follow a staged approach beginning with Phase I. AEL carry out ESA and remedial work in accordance with CSA and ASTM protocols and, in Ontario, the requirements of O.Reg. 153/04.
AEL are experienced with site assessments and have over 20 years experience to bring to our analysis and interpretation of site conditions. AEL use of senior staff allows us to make use of experience and expertise in our understanding of site conditions providing enhanced quality of work.
Phase I
Phase I ESAs require a non-intrusive investigation to understanding the environmental legacy at a site.
Our Phase I investigations, supplemented by 20 years of engineering experience, include detailed aerial photographs and mapping reviews, historical process audits, and detailed records searches.
Phase II
Phase II ESAs are intrusive investigations to review Phase I concerns and understand the size and scope of possible contamination impacts. This Phase, if required, consists of sampling and analysis to determine site conditions. AEL Phase II investigations are supplemented with our own on-site UVF and XRF onsite testing methods for the delineation of hydrocarbon and metal impacts respectively. AEL’s proprietary sampling protocols also improve sample quality and recovery while allowing us to complete work in a shorter time frame. Our intent is to provide a clear understanding of the issues affecting a site with the collection of more high quality data while reducing assessment costs.
Phase III
Phase III ESAs are the cleanup or remediation phase which is based on Phase II findings related to scope and size of contamination.
Remediation is accomplished through design-tender or design-build contracting approaches. Regardless of the construction method, our remedial plans address potential issues relating to health and safety, environmental concerns, groundwater control, excavation and building support, remedial technologies and soil management.
Record of Site Condition (RSC)
Once remedial work is complete, or the ESA finds the site meets applicable quality standards, we recommend issuance of an RSC.
The extent or type of cleanup can be verified through an RSC which is registered for sites in Ontario with the Ministry of the Environment under O. Reg. 153/04. This provides regulatory protection against future liability with respect to a site.