Issue 25, February 2008

Contaminated land can be defined as:

• Land where a substance is present at concentrations higher than regulations allow; and/or

• Land where contamination by substances pose a significant risk of harm to human health or the environment.

Contaminated land is commonly encountered where land has been used for industrial activities involving the storage, handling and/or disposal of chemicals and waste.

The type and concentration of contaminants found at contaminated sites vary, depending upon past uses, however they can generally be described by the following categories:

• Asbestos;

• Hydrocarbons (e.g. BTEX, PAH and TPH);

• Heavy Metals (e.g. Cadmium, Mercury and Lead);

• Nutrients (e.g. Nitrates and Phosphates);

• Pesticides, Herbicides, PCB, Dioxins and Furans; and

• Radioactive materials (e.g. Uranium, Thorium and Radium).

At CETEC, we regularly conduct surveys and risk assessments of suspected contaminated land and buildings, including specific assessments for the identification and measurement of radioactive materials.

The initial qualitative assessment is conducted using a handheld radiation detection instrument.   This is then compared to natural background radiation in a similar area. It is important to note that background radiation varies depending on the mineral makeup of the sub-strata. If radiation levels are shown to be significantly higher than natural background, contamination may be present and we recommend a sampling survey and risk assessment of your site.

If radioactive contaminants are present, the implications include: exposure of the public and workers to ionizing radiation as well as limitations and costs for suitable transport and disposal. At CETEC, we can manage remediation methodologies of sites contaminated with radioactive material, based on detailed sampling surveys, a site-specific risk assessment and communication strategies.

If you would like to talk to Adam Garnys or one of our other consultants please contact us on initially (02) 9966 9211 or (03) 9544 9111 or via this form.

Related articles:
Digging the Dirt - Soil Contamination

Innovative Site Remediation

School Soils Assessment
 

Select another article from this issue:

	Electromagnetic Field (EMF) Facts
	Decontamination & Disposal Of Your Radioactive Waste