In last week’s post, we discussed the first three things that should be included in every Phase II ESA proposal. To review them and check out that post, click here.
This week we will go through three more things that are pertinent to a Phase II ESA proposal.
1. Understanding of Field Conditions
The selection of equipment and the required time to complete field programs can vary greatly based upon drilling conditions, season, and access restrictions. Any carefully thought out work plan will account for the expected depth to groundwater, soil type, depth to bedrock, and requirements for interior drilling.
2. Quality Assurance / Quality Control
Industry standard calls for a minimum number (typically 10%) of samples to be collected for Quality Assurance / Quality Control (QA/QC) purposes. This will include the collection of blind field duplicates, travel blanks, field blanks, and in some instances, equipment or rinsate blanks. QA/QC extends beyond this, to the appropriate execution of standard operating procedures for sample collection, handling and transport. Certified laboratories also have extensive QA/QC procedures that will be followed. QA/QC details are not always stipulated in a Phase II ESA work plan. However, if the price seems too good to be true, this may be where corners have been cut.
3. Expertise in the Right Fields
In almost all provinces in Canada, regulations exist to ensure that only qualified professionals (QPs) oversee Phase II ESA work. These are typically licensed professional engineers or geoscientists with experience in the environmental / contaminated sites field. If you anticipate that your project will involve the assessment of soil vapour or indoor air, risk assessment or remediation, it is important that you select a QP who has experience with and can reference successful projects involving those elements.
Next week we wrap up this series of posts, so stay tuned for the final four pieces that every Phase II ESA proposal requires!
Written by Kyla Hoyles
