In my last blog I discussed the uncertainty involved with conducting Phase 1 and 2 Environmental Site Assessments (ESA). Most ESA Standards, including CSA Z-768-01 and the Brownfields regulations in Ontario, require the assessor to identify uncertainties in their ESA, and to consider potential implications to the reported findings and conclusions. While, it is not always feasible to eliminate uncertainty, there are several ways to reduce uncertainty to more manageable levels. Continue reading “Managing Uncertainty”
Tolerating Uncertainty
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I was recently asked “How do you deal with the stress from uncertainty; especially when assessing contaminated properties?” I replied that there are two levels of uncertainty to consider. The first relates to things you cannot control – the weather, your favourite sports team winning a championship – and the less time spent worrying about these the less stress you get. The other level is trying to manage uncertainty and possible stress that is inherent to environmental consulting, particularly when dealing with many unknown variables. Continue reading “Tolerating Uncertainty”
More Tales of LUST
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In my last post I discussed Leaking Underground Storage Tanks (or LUST) and their associated environmental and financial liabilities. A properly conducted Phase 1 ESA should investigate the potential presence or likelihood of storage tanks at a Site. Historical records can help uncover evidence of storage tanks, including: Fire Insurance Plans that graphically illustrate the location of historical tanks; City Directories which may list prior occupants such as service stations and fueling facilities; Site Plans and Building Permits may describe the installation a tank. Other private databases such as EcoLog ERIS provide records of Private or Retail Storage Tanks and spills. Continue reading “More Tales of LUST”
Cautionary Tales of LUST
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One of the common concerns I encounter when conducting Environmental Site Assessments is the potential presence of fuel or chemical storage tanks, specifically Leaking Underground Storage Tanks (LUST). Although exact numbers are not readily available, there may be thousands of abandoned, out-of-service or forgotten Underground Storage Tanks (UST) across Canada, and each one presents a potential environmental liability. Continue reading “Cautionary Tales of LUST”
Help! My Urban Ontario Property Is Contaminated By Drinking Water
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In my last blog, I discussed the issue of Trihalomethanes (THM) including chloroform in groundwater in Ontario, and how THM-impacted groundwater can be problematic in obtaining a Record of Site Condition (RSC) under Ontario Regulation 153/04. Based on my experience with similar Sites, property owners and consultants may want to consider the following actions. Continue reading “Help! My Urban Ontario Property Is Contaminated By Drinking Water”
