What is an environmental site assessment?

What is an environmental site assessment?

Slade offers Phase I, II, and III Environmental Site Assessments (ESA) as part of our general contracting services. Before buying property or commencing a building project, it is recommended to perform an environmental site assessment. This will detect any risks associated with contamination or hazardous waste, which can be very costly to remedy.

Standards for environmental site assessments are maintained by the American Society for Testing and Materials or ASTM. A Phase I assessment will review records, interview owners, occupants, neighbors and local government officials, and it includes an onsite inspection. The inspection is performed by an environmental expert who is well versed in all the related standards and regulations. The property is evaluated for contamination onsite or nearby so that any health risks can be identified.

A Phase II assessment will be performed if potential contaminants by hazardous materials are detected in Phase I. Samples will be laboratory tested to confirm the presence of any contaminants. This can include but is not limited to soil and water samples, subsurface soil testing, groundwater monitoring, geophysical testing for buried tanks or drums, and testing of any underground storage tanks. Testing may also be performed nearby to determine the scope and distribution of hazardous materials.

A Phase III ESA involves a cleanup or remediation process to treat significant groundwater or soil contamination. To do this, Slade creates and implements a project work plan. The most common type of Phase III cleanup involves soil excavation and removal of contamination to an appropriate facility. There are an incredible array of technologies and remedies available to treat a contaminated site. Slade will offer recommendations based on your budget and the characteristics of the damage.

Slade can take the headache out of environmental site characterization. What can be a confusing, expensive, and frustrating process doesn’t have to be. Our expertise, commitment to the environment, and dedication to your project will help you achieve your goals. Get in touch with us today and learn why performing an environmental site assessment is a wise plan.