Soil Sampling and Site Remediation

All businesses should now have in place hazard registers which identify the risks to people from their normal business activities and have actions in place to address these. But how many have considered the risks posed by the ground on which everyone works? As our understanding of the way chemicals interact with the soil has improved, so has the understanding of the risks posed by contaminants in the ground to people and the environment. How many have identified the risks to the environment that the business processes may pose if a leak was to occur?

Risks to the environment and risks from the environment are issues that should be regularly reviewed. Intrusive capital works require that the risks posed by the disturbed soils must be investigated and actioned where necessary. Changes to business processes (new chemicals, new product stock feeds or lower/changed emissions) should instigate a review of the environmental risks register. When moving into new premises, the condition of the site needs to be confirmed between all parties to ensure that it is safe to operate from, and that any previous occupier's issues are not inherited.

To best understand these issues, a site assessment is required which includes site soil testing. During site soil testing, the samples are sent to an accredited NATA laboratory for specific chemical analysis. Based upon the results of these tests, potential issues can be identified and solutions can be implemented.

There are specific regulations surrounding chemical concentrations in soils and sampling frequencies, and these vary for different land uses and off-site disposals of soils.

HAZCON can assist in planning and performing a site soil assessment that meets the needs of varying businesses and land uses. 

If you have any queries or wish to find out more about what services HAZCON can provide please Contact Us.