Following are remediation tips and guidance related to site characterization/site investigation.

Tools and Technology

• Use direct push technologies to collect samples whenever site conditions allow.
• Reduce remobilizations and investigation-derived waste by considering direct sensing technology options, such as membrane interface probe (MIP), laser induced fluorescence (LIF), and sensor and cone penetrometer testing (CPT).
• Use an X-ray fluorescence analyzer to screen for metals.
• Consider soil gas surveys, portable gas chromatography/mass spectrometry for fuel-related compounds and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to assist in source identification.
• Use geophysical surveys tools, such as ground penetrating radar or electromagnetic surveys, to define boundaries of buried tanks and drums before excavation or remediation if the tank location(s) is unknown.
• Use field test kits where possible and sampling kits that generate less waste.
• Use drilling technologies that produce less development water.

Techniques

• Consider using the “Triad Approach” for site investigations to reduce field mobilization and associated fuel consumption through planning and real-time measurements | Learn More >
• Reduce site visits by using remote notification approaches, such as solar powered telemetry systems.
• Consider using a mobile laboratory to determine stepping out for delineation of contamination, as this can minimize multiple mobilizations /demobilizations.
• Use onsite screening techniques (such as Photo-Ionization Detection (PID) screening and mobile laboratory analyses) to separate uncontaminated soil from contaminated soil during activities, such as tank excavations and site investigations. Consider using the uncontaminated soil for reuse onsite.
• Consider performing a Tier III evaluation to decide if soil treatment is needed.
• Consider the remediation technique when constructing well screen intervals.
• Reuse decontamination water to make grout during well installations to minimize waste generation.