INTRODUCTION
TO
SITE INSPECTION
TRAINING
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Region 5, Library (PL-12J)
77 West Jackson Boulevard, 12th Floor
Chicago, IL 60604-3590
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Environmental Response Training Program
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section 1:
Section 2:
Section 3:
Section 4:
Section 5:
Section 6:
Title
Page
Section 7:
Section 8:
Section 9:
Section 10:
Section 11;
Introduction
Lecture Notes 1-1
Integrated Assessments
Lecture Notes 2-1
Site Inspection Approaches
Lecture Notes 3-1
Site Investigation Planning
Lecture Notes 4-1
Sampling Strategies
Lecture Notes 5-1
Source Characterization
Lecture Notes 6-1
Case Study 6-7
Ground Water Pathway
Lecture Notes 7-1
Case Study 7-15
Surface Water Pathway
Lecture Notes 8-1
Case Study 8-24
Soil Exposure Pathway
Lecture Notes 9-1
Case Study 9-14
Air Pathway
Lecture Notes 10-1
Case Study 10-10
Radiation
Lecture Notes 11-1
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section Title Page
Section 12: Site Inspection Evaluation and Reporting
Lecture Notes 12-1
Section 13: Appendixes
Appendix A - Fact Sheets
Appendix B - Acronym List and Glossary
Appendix C - Case Studies
Appendix D - SI Data Summary
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Section 1:
Introduction
f
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INTRODUCTION
Course Overview
This course...
• Focuses on the role of the site inspection (SI) in the site
assessment process
• Examines the relationship of the SI to the preliminary assessment
• Demonstrates that the SI process is flexible and dynamic
• Describes the activities necessary to develop pathway-specific
sampling strategies
• Emphasizes the importance of sampling smart
• Introduces the concept of "integrated assessments"
77»/s course will not provide...
• Detailed SI standard operating guidelines or procedures
• Hazard Ranking System (HRS) training
OH«1
SI Guidance Goals
Assist SI investigators in:
• Conducting efficient, high-quality assessments
• Making correct site recommendations
• Achieving national consistency in performing Sis
SI Guidance, chapter 1 OH • 2
Introduction 4/94
page 1-2
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INTRODUCTION
Si Guidance Structure
Chapter 1 • Introduction
Chapter 2 • SI Approaches
Chapter 3 • Planning
Chapter 4 • Sampling Strategies
Chapter 5 • SI Evaluation
Chapter 6 • Reporting Requirements
References
Glossary
Appendixes
SI Guidance, chapter 1
OH '3
9
SARA Mandate
"...assess the relative degree of risk to human health and the
environment posed by sites."
SI Guidance, section 1.1
OH* 4
4/94
Introduction
page 1-3
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INTRODUCTION
Superfund Tackles Hazardous Waste Emergencies
and the Nation's Most Serious Sites
Site Discovery and Study: Finding the Most Serious Sites
Preliminary
Assessment
Long-Term Cleanup: Fixing the Most Serious Sites
National
Priorities
List
Rl/FS
Record of
Decision
Remedial
Design
Remedial
Action
O&
Deletion
M
OH«5
Introduction
page 1-4
4/94
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INTRODUCTION
The Site Assessment Process:
Preliminary Assessment (PA)
The PA identifies...
• Historical waste generation and disposal practices
• Hazardous substances associated with site
• Potential sources of hazardous substances
• Important migration pathways and affected media
• A comprehensive survey of targets
• Critical sample locations for SI
SI Guidance, section 1.1.1
OH»6
Site Assessment in Superfund
Yes
NFRAP
OH-7
4/94
Introduction
page 1-5
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INTRODUCTION
The Site Assessment Process
Site inspection (SI)
• Intended to test PA hypotheses
• Includes collection of environmental samples
• Involves more detailed data collection
• Results in a decision to recommend for MRS scoring or no further
remedial action planned (NFRAP)
SI Guidance, section 1.1.2 OH • 8
The Site Assessment Process
Primary SI objectives
• Identify substances present
• Determine whether hazardous substances are being
released to the environment
• Determine whether hazardous substances have impacted
specific targets
Additional objectives
• Support potential removal activities
• Support enforcement actions
• Collect data to support the remedial investigation/feasibility study
(RI/FS)
SI Guidance, section 1.1.2 OH • 9
Introduction 4/94
page 1-6
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INTRODUCTION
The Site Assessment Process
Major SI activities
• Review available information
• Organize project team and develop plans
• Perform field work
- Visually inspect site
- Collect data samples
• Evaluate all data and prepare site score
• Establish defensible documentation
SI Guidance, section 1.1.2
OH »10
The Site Assessment Activities
PA Activities
SI Activities
Preparation
and Planning
Reporting and
Documentation
OH»11
4/94
Introduction
page 1-7
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INTRODUCTION
Comparison of PA and SI
PA
Limited scope
Nonsampling
investigation
Step-by-step evaluation
Comprehensive target
survey
Conservative assumptions
and professional judgment
SI
Limited scope
Biased sampling
investigation
Flexible and dynamic
evaluation
Sampling strategy and
data collection to satisfy
HRS criteria
Additional information to
test critical assumptions
and hypotheses
OH'12
Notes:
Introduction
page 1-8
4/94
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Section 2:
Integrated Assessments
t
t
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INTEGRATED ASSESSMENTS
Lecture Overview:
Integrated Assessment
Integrated Assessments and SACM
Introduction to the Removal Program
Integrated Assessments Approach
OH«1
Integrated Assessments
Introduction to the Removal Program
Integrated Assessments Approach
OH«2
Integrated Assessments
page 2-2
10/94
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• INTEGRATED ASSESSMENTS *
f
Integrated Assessments
Integrating removal and remedial site assessment
investigation to achieve increased efficiency and shorter
response times
One of many programs associated with the implementation of
the Superfund Accelerated Cleanup Model (SACM)
OH* 3
SACM History
Developed to increase efficiency of the Superfund program by
streamlining cleanup efforts at all Superfund sites
Designed to combine immediate action with continuing study as
necessary
Should restore public confidence in Superfund process
Hazard Ranking System Guidance Manual,
EPA 540-R-92-026, November 1992
OH* 4
10/94
Integrated Assessments
page 2-3
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INTEGRATED ASSESSMENTS
Traditional Approaches
Removal assessments are traditionally based on whether site
conditions meet National Contigency Plan (NCP) criteria for a
removal action
Remedial site assessments are focused on collecting data for
MRS
The need to integrate these programs is based on the
assumption that there is duplication of effort between the
programs
EPA Directive 9345.1-16FS (Fact Sheet), Integrating Removal and
Remedial Site Assessment Investigations, September 1993
OH* 5
Integrated Assessments
Integrated Assessments and SACM
Jntf^ffitffi
Integrated Assessments Approach
OH* 6
Integrated Assessments
page 2-4
10/94
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• INTEGRATED ASSESSMENTS
What is the Removal Program?
Federal response capability for releases or threatened releases of:
• Hazardous substances that present a threat to public health, welfare,
or the environment
• Oil spills into or on navigable waters and shorelines
• Petroleum releases from underground storage tanks
t
OH«7
What are the Removal Program Authorities?
Statutory
• Clean Water Act (CWA) as amended by the Oil Pollution Act
of 1990
• Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation
and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA)
• Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA)
• Oil Pollution Act
Regulatory
• NCP
OH* 8
10/94 Integrated Assessments
page 2-5
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INTEGRATED ASSESSMENTS
Initiating Removal Actions
Authority to approve a removal is generally based on estimated cost
• Less than 50K - onscene coordinator (OSC)
• $50K to $2M - regional administrator
• Over $2M - assistant administrator, OSWER
PRP search
• NCP requirement
Action memorandum
• Criteria for qualifying site
• Proposed removal action
• Estimated cost
Note: Cost criteria are under revision
OH* 9
What are Removal Actions?
Near-term response actions taken to prevent, minimize, or
mitigate threats to public health, welfare, or the environment
including, but not limited to:
• Collection and analysis of samples
• Provision of alternate water supplies
• Onsite treatment
• Source control/stabilization
• Offsite storage, treatment, destruction, or disposal
• Temporary relocation of threatened individuals
• Installation of security fencing/guards
OH-10
Integrated Assessments 10/94
page 2-6
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INTEGRATED ASSESSMENTS
Classification of Removal Actions
Classic emergency
• 33 percent of removal actions since 1985
• Immediate action required
Time critical
• Planning period of less than 6 months
Nontime critical
• Planning period of greater than 6 months is available
• Agency conducts an engineering evaluation/cost analysis
(EE/CA)
OH'11
How is the Appropriate Response Selected?
Discovery or
Notification
Removal Site
Evaluation
No release
or threatened
release
Nonfederal party
undertaking proper
response
Removal action
(removal action
memo to
document a
threat)
Remedial
action
OH »12
10/94
Integrated Assessments
page 2-7
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• INTEGRATED ASSESSMENTS
The Removal Evaluation
Removal preliminary assessments and site inspections are
conducted to determine and evaluate:
• Presence and magnitude of threat to health or environment
• Source and nature of the release
• Activities required to mitigate threat
• Ability of nonfederal party(ies) to undertake response
• Need for CERCLA-funded removal
OH* 13
Removal Criteria
• Actual or potential human or animal food chain exposure
• Actual or potential drinking water contamination
• Fire or explosion threat
• Hazardous substance in containers that pose a threat of release
• Highly contaminated soils at the surface — direct contact threat
• Weather conditions that may cause substances to migrate
• Unavailability of other response or enforcement mechanisms
OH»14
Integrated Assessments 10/94
page 2-8
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INTEGRATED ASSESSMENTS
How are Removals Implemented?
Technical response support
• Technical Assistant Team (TAT) - contractor
• U.S. Coast Guard (USCG)
• Environmental Response Team (ERT)
Mitigation/cleanup response
• Regional Emergency Response Cleanup Services (ERCS) -
contractor
• Site-specific contracts
Cooperative agreements (CAs) with states
OH»15
ERCS
Analytical services
Containment and countermeasures
Cleanup, mitigation, and disposal
Site restoration
OH'16
10/94 Integrated Assessments
page 2-9
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INTEGRATED ASSESSMENTS
EPA Emergency Notification Procedures
The National Response Center (NRC; 1-800-424-8802) alerts
regional EPA or USCG OSC about most spill notifications
OH* 17
Integrated Assessments
Integrated Assessments and SACM
Introduction to the Removal Program
OH -18
Integrated Assessments
page 2-10
10/94
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• INTEGRATED ASSESSMENTS •
t
Removal and Remedial Assessments
Similarities in programs'goals
• Evaluate potential for human exposure to drinking water, soil,
and airborne contaminants
• Evaluate threats to sensitive environments (e.g., wetlands)
Similarities in activities
• Telephone and file investigations
• Site visits or PA recons
• Sampling visits
Fact sheet, page 3 OH • 19
t
SACM Goals: Integrated Assessment
Eliminate duplication of effort
Expedite the process
Minimize the number of site visits and other steps in the process
Collect only the data needed to assess the site appropriately
Fact sheet, page 3
OH* 20
10/94
Integrated Assessments
page 2-11
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INTEGRATED ASSESSMENTS
Integrated Assessment Approach
Important features
• Combined notification/site discovery/screening function
• Single site visit for both programs
• Phased file searches
• Integrated sample planning and inspection
See Figure 2, Integrated Assessment, Integrating Removal
and Remedial Site Assessment Investigations Fact Sheet,
EPA 540-F-93-038, September 1993
Fact sheet, page 4
OH* 21
Integrated Assessment Approach
Notification/site discovery/screening
• "One door" notification process
• All sites screened for emergency response
• Determine whether there is enough time for a file search before
initial site visit
Classic emergency
• Respond immediately
• Little or no time for file search or telephone
investigation
Fact sheet, page 3
OH»22
Integrated Assessments
page 2-12
10/94
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INTEGRATED ASSESSMENTS
Integrated Assessment Approach
File search
• Includes all elements of a removal assessment file search
• Table 1, File Search and Telephone Investigation, lists
elements
• Document all elements for both programs
Fact sheet, page 3
OH* 23
t
Integrated Assessment Approach
Initial field investigation/PA reconnaissance:
• Combines elements from removal field visit and remedial PA
reconnaissance
• Documentation procedures for removal assessment may require
revision to meet remedial assessment needs
• Would require onsite reconnaissance at all sites
• Table 2, Data Elements of the Site Visit, lists data needs for both
programs
Fact sheet, page 5
OH* 24
10/94
Integrated Assessments
page 2-13
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INTEGRATED ASSESSMENTS
integrated Assessment Approach
Sample (optional)
• Should follow current removal assessment approach
• Should consider HRS data needs
Review data and decide further action
• Both programs meet to decide next step(s)
• May continue removal assessment, PA, or both concurrently
• May expedite PA to determine whether remedial site assessment
requirements should be included in sampling plans
Fact sheet, page 5 OH • 25
Integrated Assessment Approach
Complete the PA
• Collect additional information needed to complete PA
• Calculate preliminary HRS score
• Prepare PA report
• Table 3, Data Elements Needed to Complete the PA, should be
consulted
• Refer site to regional decision team if score is greater than or
equal to 28.5
Fact sheet, pages 5 and 6 OH • 26
Integrated Assessments 10/94
page 2-14
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• INTEGRATED ASSESSMENTS •
Integrated Assessment Approach
Integrated sampling plan
• Combines screening level SI plans and remaining removal
sampling activities
• For sites going to NPL, remedial project manager (RPM) should
be consulted
• Could include sampling for long-term objectives
Si/removal assessment sampling
• One event
• Meet needs of both programs
See Table 4, Integrating Removal and Remedial
Site Assessment Investigations, Fact Sheet,
EPA 540-F-93-038. September 1993
Fact sheet, page 6 OH • 27
Integrated Assessment Approach
Expanded site inspection/remedial investigation
• Option allowing Rl to start as soon as site appears to qualify for
NPL
• NPL listing needs and Rl needs can be incorporated into single
sampling plan
Fact sheet, page 6 OH • 28
10/94 Integrated Assessments
page 2-15
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Section 3:
SI Approaches
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SI APPROACHES •
SI Approaches
Yes
Focused
SI
1
Expanded
SI
Single
SI
—
1
MRS
Package
Preparation
1
or NFRAP
S/ Guidance, chapter 2
OH'1
Focused SI: Goals
Obtain and analyze critical samples
investigate human and environmental exposure to hazardous
substances
Test PA hypotheses that affect further action recommendations
SI Guidance, section 2.1
OH«2
SI Approaches
page 3-2
10/94
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• SI APPROACHES •
Focused SI
There are several types of PA hypotheses that would
result in a further action decision
SI Guidance, section 2.1
OH* 3
Focused SI:
Further Action Hypotheses
Municipal
Well
SI Guidance, section 2.1
OH«4
10/94
SI Approaches
page 3-3
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SI APPROACHES
Focused SI:
Further Action Hypotheses
SI Guidance, section 2.1
Marshes/wetlands
Lake |
OH»5
Focused SI:
Further Action Hypotheses
School
SI Guidance, section 2.1
OH* 6
SI Approaches
page 3-4
10/94
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SI APPROACHES
Focused SI:
Further Action Hypotheses
Source
S/ Guidance, section 2.1
Residence
OH »7
Focused Si: Emphasis
Additional screening to test "critical" PA hypotheses and
assumptions
- Targets that may be exposed to contamination
. Suspected release of hazardous substances
- Source characterization and identification of hazardous
substances
Seeks to distinguish between NFRAP and National Priorities List
(NPL) candidate site
SI Guidance, section 2.1
OH* 8
10/94
SI Approaches
page 3-5
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• SI APPROACHES •
Focused Si: Scope
• Average 400 technical hours; typically 350 to 450 hours
• Average 16 samples; typically 12 to 20 samples
• Does not need to satisfy all MRS requirements
• Can reduce number of background samples to control costs
• Number of quality control (QC) and background samples depends
on pathways being sampled
SI Guidance, section 2.1
OH-9
Focused SI Activities
Raport Preparation
HRS Evaluated,
Total Focused SI Hours: 400
SI Guidance, section 2.1
OH'10
SI Approaches
page 3-6
10/94
-------
• SI APPROACHES •
Focused SI Results
Focused
SI
No
Yes
i
Expanded
SI
or
1
HRS
Package
Preparation
OH«11
Expanded SI: Goal
"...collect all data necessary to prepare an HRS
scoring package to propose the site to the NPL"
SI Guidance, section 2.2
OH«12
10/94
SI Approaches
page 3-7
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SI APPROACHES
Expanded SI: Emphasis
Hypotheses or conclusions not adequately documented during
focused SI
Collect samples necessary to attribute hazardous substance
contamination to site operations
Collect samples to establish background/quality control
Collect missing data for significant pathways
Collect all remaining nonsampling data
Establish thorough and defensible documentation
SI Guidance, section 2.2 OH • 13
Expanded SI: Expanded SI Sampling
Design to support MRS requirements
• "Observed release" of hazardous substances
relative to background
• "Observed contamination"
• "Levels of contamination"
May require special field activities
• Monitoring well installation
• Air sampling
• Geophysical studies
• Drum/tank sampling
• Borehole installation
• Background sampling studies
S/ Guidance, section 2.2 OH • 14
SI Approaches 10/94
page 3-8
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SI APPROACHES
Expanded SI: Scope
Average 600 hours; typically 550 to 650 hours
Average 30 samples; typically 25 to 35 samples
Adequate QC and background samples
Satisfy MRS requirements
SI Guidance, section 2.2
OH'15
Expanded SI Activities
Previous
Investigation R*vi«w
and Planning
MobUirationJraval,
•nd Demobilization
R •port Preparation
HRS Evaluation,
Total Expanded SI Hours: 620
SI Guidance, section 2.2
OH-16
10/94
SI Approaches
page 3-9
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SI APPROACHES
Si Approaches: Typical Data Collection Activities
Activity
Nonsampling data
collection
Target sampling
Source sampling
Release sampling
Background sampling
Attribution sampling
QA/QC sampling
Special data collection
or sampling tasks
Focused SI
s (minor activity)
ss (major activity)
ss
s
s
—
•/
m
Expanded and
Single SI
s
•ss
•/s
•/s
ss
SS
ss
if necessary
S/ Guidance, section 2.2, table 2-3
OH»17
Single SI
Eligibility for single S/
• Sites with available analytical data
- If previous analytical data are of sufficient quality and indicate
site is a likely NPL candidate
• "Simple" sites
• "Remote" sites
• "Potential contamination" sites
S/ Guidance, section 2.3
OH* 18
S/ Approaches
page 3-10
10/94
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SI APPROACHES
Single Si: Activities
Scope varies
• Collect data to satisfy MRS requirements
• Obtain adequate QC and background samples
• Collect missing nonsampling information for significant pathways
• Document thoroughly
SI Guidance, section 2.3
OH-19
SI Approaches
PA
Yes
Focused
SI
1
Expanded
SI
Single
SI
—
I
HRS
Package
Preparation
I
or NFRAP
SI Guidance, chapter 2
OH-20
10/94
SI Approaches
page 3-11
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I
Section 4:
Site Investigation Planning
9
Site-specific Work Plan
Health and Safety
Plan (HASP)
Site Sample Plan
Investigation-derived
Waste Plan (IDW)
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SITE INVESTIGATION PLANNING
Planning - Overview
Four plans are needed to:
• Refine investigation objectives
• Ensure activities proceed efficiently
• Ensure safety
• Address investigation - derived waste
SI Guidance, chapter 3, pages 15 and 30 OH • 1
Sample Collection Issues
Demonstrate that hazardous substances are present
Determine whether they have migrated from their original
locations
SI Guidance, section 3.1 OH • 2
Site Investigation Planning 4/94
page 4-2
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I
f
"•*•! • bllt IN VbbllUAl ION PLANNING • 5^^.^
SI Guidance,
S
Sample
/
/
Waste Source
Samples
• Landfills
• Surface impoundments
• Drums/containers
• Piles
• Contaminated soil
I
Types
\
Media (Environmental)
Samples
• Groundwater
• Surface water
• Soil (sediment)
• Air
Further discussion of sample types is found in Table 3-1 ,
Types of Samples, page 16 of the SI Guidance
section 3. 1. 1
"\
OH* 3
Notes:
4/94
Site Investigation Planning
page 4-3
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TABLE 3-1: TYPES OF SAMPLES
SAMPLE TYPE
ADVANTAGES
DISADVANTAGES
Biased
(non-random,
judgmental)
Promotes timeliness
Uses knowledge of site
Focuses sampling effort
Decreases representativeness
Increases chance of false negatives
Unbiased
(random,
systematic
grid)
Increases representativeness
Reduces chance of false negatives
Allows limited site knowledge
Increases cost
Increases time required
Grab
Increases representativeness and
variability
Requires more samples
Requires careful placement
Composite
Reduces cost
Increases area of investigation
Reduces chance of false positives
Provides average concentrations only
Allows substances to interact
Media
Supports releases
Supports target contamination
May require off-site access permits
Subject to temporal variation
Waste
Optimizes contaminant identification
Supports attribution
May result in elevated concentrations
May require sample dilution
May require special procedures and
equipment
Filtered
Allows comparison with drinking water
benchmarks
Comparison with surface water
environmental benchmarks not valid
May increase sample handling errors
Unfiltered
Allows comparison with surface water
environmental benchmarks
Comparison with drinking water
benchmarks not valid
Guidance for Performing Site Inspections Under CERCLA, USEPA, Sept. 1992
Site Investigation Planning
page 4-4
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9
SITE INVESTIGATION PLANNING
Sample Variability: Factors
Sample collection and handling techniques
Spatial variability
Temporal variability
Media variability
SI Guidance, section 3.1.2, pages 17-21
OH* 4
Sample Variability: Media-specific Sampling
• Surface and ground water
• Soil/sediment
• Air vapors or particulates
• Tissue
• Containerized materials
Turn to SI Guidance, Table 3-4, Sampling Issues
Affecting Confidence in Analytical Results, page 19, for
media-specific sampling issues
S/ Guidance, section 3.1.2, pages 19-21
OH* 5
4/94
Site Investigation Planning
page 4-5
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TABLE 3-4: SAMPLING ISSUES AFFECTING CONFIDENCE IN ANALYTICAL RESULTS
MAJOR AQUATIC
SAMPLING SOIL/ GROUND SURFACE ANIMAL SOURCE
ISSUES SEDIMENT WATER WATER AIR TISSUE MATERIAL
Hazardous Substance
Migration
Temporal Variation
Spatial Variation
Topographic and
Geological Features
Hot Spots
Sample Collection
Sample Preparation
and Handling
Sample Storage
Sample Preservation
/V
—
//
//
SS
S
SS
— .
—
_
/
—
//
—
/
//
//
ss
/
//
//
— ,
—
//
//
//
//
/
//
/
/
—
//
//
//
—
__ _
/
—
—
//
//
//
//
//
—
//
^I_n^
^/
/
/
—
—
Key: t»V= Likely source of significant sampling problem
/ = Potential source of sampling problem
Source: Modified from Keith, 1990
Guidance for Performing Sfte Inspections Under CEftCLA, USEPA, Sept. 1992
Site Investigation Planning
page 4-6
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SITE INVESTIGATION PLANNING
Field Quality Assurance and
Quality Control (QA/QC) Considerations
Help evaluate quality of analytical results and quality of field
methods
QC samples treated in same manner as site samples
Consult EPA regional guidelines for number and type of QC
samples to be collected
SI Guidance, section 3.2, page 21 OH • 6
Notes:
4/94 Site Investigation Planning
page 4-7
-------
• SITE INVESTIGATION PLANNING
QC Sample Types
Co-located or
Duplicates
Replicates or Splits
Field Blanks
Trip Blanks
Field Rinsates
(Equipment Blanks)
Field Matrix Spikes
Two samples collected at the same time and
location.
One sample that is divided and sent to the
same or separate laboratories.
Samples of contaminant-free medium that are
either transferred from one container to an-
other or are exposed to field conditions.
Samples prepared from contaminant-free
medium and placed in sample containers prior
to the SI. They are kept unopened with site
samples throughout the investigation.
Deionized water flushed through sampling
equipment after decontamination and before
resampling to monitor decontamination proce-
dures.
Field samples prepared by adding a known
amount of contaminants to selected site
samples.
Site Investigation Planning
page 4-8
4/94
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I
SITE INVESTIGATION PLANNING
9
MRS Sampling Considerations
Several MRS elements require sample data
• Site and source characterization
- Identify hazardous wastes
- Determine hazardous waste quantity
- Delineate source boundaries
• Observed release and areas of observed contamination
- Provide direct evidence of an "observed release" to affected media
- Demonstrate "significant" contamination
- Estimate area of contamination
- Demonstrate "attribution"
SI Guidance, section 3.3, pages 22-23 OH • 7
HRS Sampling Considerations
Additional MRS elements requiring sample data
• Levels of contamination at specific targets
- Document "actual contamination"
- Targets include drinking water wells, surface water intakes,
residential/school properties, and sensitive environments
- Support "potential contamination"
- Define levels of contamination
• Target distances
- Establish target distance limits
SI Guidance, section 3.3 OH »8
V ,
4/94 Site Investigation Planning
page 4-9
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SITE INVESTIGATION PLANNING
MRS Sampling Considerations:
Levels of Contamination
Actual contamination
Yes
Potential contamination
(Target value x 0.1)
Concentration
above
s benchmark?
Level II contamination
(Target Value x1)
Level 1 contamination
(Target Value x 10)
SI Guidance, section 3.3
OH-9
MRS Sampling Considerations:
What are Benchmarks?
Health- or ecological-based reference concentrations that reflect
relative risk (for example, cancer risk)
Media- and threat-specific
Any threat may involve more than one benchmark
Found in look-up table (for example, SCDM)
Default to Level II if no benchmark applies
Benchmarks are presentee in Table 3-6,
Media-specific Benchmarks, SI Guidance, page 23
SI Guidance, section 3.3
OH* 10
Site Investigation Planning
page 4-10
4/94
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I
TABLE 3-6: MEDIA-SPECIFIC BENCHMARKS
HRS PATHWAY/THREAT
Ground Water
Surface Water
Drinking Water Threat
Human Food Chain Threat
Environmental Threat
Soil Exposure
Air
BENCHMARKS'
Maximum Contaminant Levels
Maximum Contaminant Level Goals
Screening concentrations*3
Maximum Contaminant Levels
Maximum Contaminant Level Goals
Screening concentrations"
Food and Drug Administration Action Levels
Screening concentrations"
Ambient Water Quality Criteria
Ambient Aquatic Life Advisory Concentrations
'Screening concentrations"
National Ambient Air Quality Standards
National emissions standards for hazardous air pollutants
Screening concentrations"
'See Superfund Chemical Data Matrix (SCDM)
'Screening concentrations for cancer corresponding to concentrations for the 10"* individual cancer risk for
oral exposure (inhalation exposure for the air pathway)
'Screening concentration for noncancer lexicological responses corresponding to RfDs for oral exposure
(inhalation exposure for the air pathway)
t
Guidance for Performing Site Inspections Under CERCLA, USEPA, Sept. 1992
f
Sfte Investigation Planning
page 4-11
-------
SITE INVESTIGATION PLANNING
Sample Analysis Options
Contract Laboratory Program (CLP)
• Standardized analytical services provided by laboratories under
contract to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- Organics/inorganics
- Water or solid samples
- Broad spectrum analysis
• target compound list (TCL)
• target analyte list (TAL)
SI Guidance, section 3.4, page 24 OH • 11
Sample Analysis Options
Non-CLP services
• May provide data of similar quality to CLP
• Analytical protocols must be selected
Field Analytical Screening Program (FASP)
• Use "portable" analytical instruments
• Applications:
- Screen many samples - Determine monitoring
- Select sample locations well locations
- Design soil sampling - Estimate hazardous
- Determine extent of waste waste quantity (HWQ)
migration - Fast turnaround time
- Reduce CLP costs
S/ Guidance, section 3.4, page 25 OH • 12
Site Investigation Planning 10/94
page 4-12
-------
SITE INVESTIGATION PLANNING
I
Review Information for SI Planning
Compile all relevant and available site data
- Hazardous waste sources
- Migration pathways
- Human and environmental targets
- Existing analytical data
Review PA (or focused SI) reports
- Examine hypotheses
- Look for changes in site conditions
§
SI Guidance, section 3.5 OH • 13
Review Information for SI Planning
Review data to determine additional work needed
- Data gaps
- Data quality
- Nonsampling information
Identify sampling objectives
- Focused vs. expanded SI
- Test critical hypotheses
SI Guidance, section 3.5 OH • 14
4/94 Site Investigation Planning
page 4-13
-------
SITE INVESTIGATION PLANNING
Review Information for SI Planning
Other sources of information
• Previous investigations by other parties
• Investigations at nearby sites
• Removal actions and reports
• EPA or other federal agencies
• State agencies
• Health departments
• Academic studies
• Owner/operator records
SI Guidance, section 3.5 OH • 15
Existing Analytical Data Review
• Use data to support design of sampling and analysis program
• Refer to SI Guidance, Table 3-7, Types of Analytical Data for
applications of existing data
• SI Guidance, Table 3-8, Review of Previous Analytical Data, sets
forth a procedure for data review
• SI Guidance, Exhibit 3-1, Checklist for Usability of Previous
Analytical Data, should be applied to existing data
SI Guidance, section 3.5.2 OH • 16
Site Investigation Planning 4/94
page 4-14
-------
TABLE 3-7: TYPES OF ANALYTICAL DATA
t
TYPE OF DATA
CLP
Qualified CLP
Non-CLP
Field screening
Owner/operator
APPLICATION
No specific limitations; used as necessary for all SI activities
Some general limitations depending on types of data qualifiers and bias (e.g.,
unknown, low, high) associated with the data
Few limitations if non-CLP data are shown to be equivalent to CLP data (e.g., level of
QA/QC documentation, level of laboratory performance, level of data quality,
independent data quality review)
Limitations if non-CLP data cannot be shown to be comparable to CLP data
Augments SI samples, especially to investigate area of contamination
Few limitations; used as necessary for all SI activities
Guidance for Performing Site Inspections Under CERCLA, USEPA, Sept. 1992
Site Investigation Planning
page 4-15
-------
TABLE 3-8: REVIEW OF PREVIOUS ANALYTICAL DATA
PROCEDURE
Determine what data are available
Evaluate purpose and scope of
previous investigations
Review sampling locations, dates,
depths, and sample descriptions
Evaluate the sampling results and
hazardous substance concentrations
Review field preparation and collection
techniques for previous samples
Review available laboratory
documentation
Assess usability of previous data
CONSIDERATIONS
What are the types of previous data: CLP, non-CLP, field
screening, full TCL analysis, partial TCL analysis, owner/operator,
State?
Why were data collected? What type of investigation: State or
Federal facility investigation, enforcement action, emergency
response, RCRA facility inspection, general assessment of ground
water quality, environmental property assessment, NPDES permit
requirements?
Was the design of the sampling program similar to the SI
sampling strategy? Did it include background samples and field
QC samples?
Are a sample plan and sample location map available? Is a field
notebook available that describes all sampling activities?
What hazardous substances were detected? What are the range of
concentrations, background levels, data qualifiers and codes
attached to data, and detection limits?
Were appropriate SOPs used for sample collection and handling?
Are QA/QC procedures or data validation procedures available?
What are the name of the laboratory, the type of analyses
performed, and the performance results?
What is the overall usability of the data set?
Guidance for Performing Site Inspections Under CERCLA, USEPA, Sept. 7992
Site Investigation Planning
page 4-16
-------
I
EXHIBIT 3-1: CHECKLIST FOR USABILITY OF PREVIOUS ANALYTICAL DATA
f
1. Have samples been taken at the appropriate location, depth, or stratum to confidently
test site hypotheses? d Yes D No
// the answer is "no," additional -sampling will likely be needed to fully test hypotheses
and provide a basis for the site disposition decision. The data may nevertheless be useful
in developing sampling and analysis plans and identifying hazardous substances of
concern.
2. Is documentation available to support the analytical procedures used to derive the data
(e.g., laboratory QA/QC procedures, type of analyses, detection limits, and data
review)? D Yes D No
3. Are representative background levels available for targets exposed to actual
contamination and hazardous substances that may demonstrate releases? D Yes D No
4. If background samples are available, are they temporally and spatially comparable to
samples indicating releases and exposure of targets to actual contamination? D Yes D No
If the answer to questions 2, 3, or 4 is "no." the data may not support HRS documentation
requirements and further review is needed to determine usability. However, the data may
support testing of site hypotheses and development of a sampling strategy.
5. Do data provide evidence that attributes the hazardous substances detected in various
media and waste samples to the site?
If the answer to question 5 is "no," additional samples will be needed to fully support
releases and targets exposed to actual contamination.
If the answers to questions 1 through 5 are all "yes," the previous analytical data may
support testing PA hypotheses, identification of hazardous substances of concern,
development of a sampling strategy, and HRS documentation requirement, including
releases and targets exposed to actual contamination.
OYes DNo
Guidance for Performing Sfte Inspections Under CERCLA, USEPA, Sept. 1992
SHe Investigation Planning
page 4-17
-------
SITE INVESTIGATION PLANNING
Site Assessment Team
• Site assessment manager
• Health and safety officer
• Field team
• Chemist/data evaluator
• Hydrogeologist
• Subcontracts officer/procurement officer
OH-17
Work Plan
Work plans should:
• Summarize site background and hazards present
• Identify SI objectives
• Set work schedule
• Identify personnel and training needs
• Determine equipment/laboratory requirements
• Include provisions to secure contract services
SI Guidance, section 3.6.1 OH • 18
Sfte Investigation Planning 4/94
page 4-18
-------
================ • SITE INVESTIGATION PLANNING •
I
A Sample Plan Includes:
Field operations—sequence for conducting field activities
Sample locations and rationale—sample type, volume, number,
and sample map
Analytical requirements and sample handling—sample
equipment, container types, preservation techniques, and filtering
Sample delivery—laboratory locations, special storage, and
transport requirements
Refer to SI Guidance, Exhibit 3-2,
SI Sample Plan Outline, pages 31-32
SI Guidance, section 3.6.2 OH • 19
Health and Safety Plan (HASP)
Goal: To establish requirements and procedures to protect the
health and safety of investigative personnel and nearby public
Routine operations—describe hazards, list key safety personnel,
levels of protection by task, designate work areas, security,
environmental monitoring, training requirements, and weather-
related problems
Emergencies—communication alternatives, contact procedures
for emergency response units, emergency equipment, route to
hospital map, transport vehicles, worker evacuation, and
decontamination
SI Guidance, section 3.6.3 OH • 20
4/94 Site Investigation Planning
page 4-19
-------
EXHIBIT 3-2: SI SAMPLE PLAN OUTLINE
INTRODUCTION
Briefly state the authority and purpose for conducting the SI and the scope of the investigation. Discuss
the objectives and goals of the SI.
SITE DESCRIPTION AND REGULATORY AND OPERATIONAL HISTORY
• Describe the site location. Identify the type of facility, whether it is active or inactive, and years of
operation. Describe its physical characteristics and setting (e.g., local land use, climate, topography,
geology, hydrology, hydrogeology). Include a map showing the location. Include a site plan or sketch
showing features on and around the site.
• Describe historical site operations, including all past and current operations and conditions. Identify
current and former owners/operators, types of site activities, wastes generated, and waste disposal
practices. Identify all sources and source types. Provide the hazardous waste quantity disposed in each
source, if possible, and provide volume or area of the sources. Identify hazardous substances associated
with or detected in the sources. Describe source containment. Describe any spills that have occurred at
the site.
• Specify whether any sources are regulated by RCRA. Describe past regulatory activities, including
permits, permit violations, and inspections by local, State, or Federal agencies. If applicable, provide
emergency response and waste removal information. Summarize analytical results of earlier
investigations. Specify type of data (e.g., CLP, non-CLP, owner/operator).
COLLECTION OF NON-SAMPLING DATA
• Describe additional non-sampling information to be collected (e.g., aquifer boundaries, interconnections,
and discontinuities; resources; drainage area; soil group; paniculate migration factors) and the rationale
for collecting this information. Discuss any field activities needed to obtain this information.
SAMPLING ACTIVITIES
Discuss objectives of planned field activities. Describe procedures and necessary resources. Discuss the
rationale for these tasks.
Provide explicit instructions for all field activities, including field observations, sampling, environmental
monitoring for health and safety purposes, and field QA/QC protocols. Reference appropriate Standard
Operating Procedures (SOPs). Discuss purpose of both onsite and offsite reconnaissances and
observations (e.g., to verify the selection of sample locations, to evaluate the degree of containment at
site sources, to measure source dimensions, to verify distances to nearby targets, and to characterize
additional sources of contamination not identified during previous investigations).
Justify proposed sample locations. Discuss methods to more fully characterize wastes and sources.
Identify specific targets to be sampled (e.g., drinking water wells or intakes, fisheries, sensitive
environments) to test or substantiate target contamination hypotheses. Describe sampling strategy to test
or substantiate observed release hypotheses and presence of media contamination (e.g., soil, ground
water, sediment, air, surface water).
Site Investigation Planning
page 4-20
-------
I
EXHIBIT 3-2: SI SAMPLE PLAN OUTLINE (concluded)
• Include a map or site sketch showing previous and proposed sample locations.
• Summarize sample plan bra table, identifying sample types, sample numbers, sample locations, and
sample-selection criteria. Describe methods of sample collection and preservation, field measurements,
and analytical methods. Refer to Standard Operating Guidelines (SOGs) or provide a table or checklist
describing the SOGs.
• Describe investigation-derived wastes (IDW) that may result from field activities. Reference the IDW
plan that describes the management approach for non-hazardous and hazardous IDW.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
• Identify all persons who will be involved in the field activities and discuss their specific
responsibilities. Identify all safety and sampling equipment and supplies. Describe any contractual
services needed to accomplish field activities. Summarize all transportation and shipping information.
• Describe community relations plans and meetings.
• Provide information on SI costs (e.g., number of technical hours; number of CLP, field screening, or
other samples; subcontracting costs). Provide schedule for SI activities and deliverables. Summarize
any special requirements that impact the SI (e.g., special safety considerations, special analytical
services (SAS), or special equipment).
• Reference the work plan.
ATTACHMENTS
• Sample summary table
• Sample location sketch
• List of references cited in this plan
• Health and safety plan
• Appropriate SOPs and SOGs
Guidance for Performing Site Inspections Under CERCLA, USEPA, Sept. 1992
Site Investigation Planning
page 4-21
-------
SITE INVESTIGATION PLANNING
Investigation-Derived Wastes (IDW) Management Plan
• Minimize quantity of wastes generated
• Remove wastes that pose an immediate threat to
human health or the environment
• Must comply with applicable federal and state
requirements
Refer to Directive 9345.3-02, Management
of Investigation-Derived Wastes During Site Inspections
SI Guidance, section 3.6.4
OH»21
Site Reconnaissance
• Verify site conditions
• Verify sample locations
• Locate and identify all sources
• Determine physical state of wastes
• Evaluate source containment and migration
• Identify overland flow paths
• Determine distance from sources to targets
• Refine site sketch
• Evaluate need for emergency response
SI Guidance, section 3.7
OH* 22
Site Investigation Planning
page 4-22
4/94
-------
SITE INVESTIGATION PLANNING
Site Access
"Legal access must be obtained from site owner before
conducting an SI"
Voluntary entry—consent to entry by notifying owner in writing of
activities to be conducted (sample collection, photography)
Conditional entry—consent to entry with restrictions (limit area of
reconnaissance, employee interviews, records)
Entry with a warrant—SI must be conducted in strict accordance
with warrant
Consult with EPA Office of Regional Counsel
SI Guidance, section 3.7.3
OH* 23
Community, Neighborhood, and Government Contacts
• Contact local representatives in advance
• Explain purpose of SI
• Explain tasks to be performed
• Identify contact for further information (regional site assessment
manager—SAM)
• Determine routing of SI results and other information
• Consult Community Relations in Superfund: A Handbook; Section
4.1, OSWER Directive 9230.0-03C, January 1992
• Contact appropriate municipal, county, state, and federal officials
before SI
SI Guidance, sections 3.7.4 and 3.7.5
OH* 24
4/94
Site Investigation Planning
page 4-23
-------
Section 5:
Sampling Strategies
-------
SAMPLING STRATEGIES
SI Sampling Program Purpose...
Endangered
species
...Assess the nature of the problem site
...Support response and further action decisions
...Meet public information needs
...Incorporate Rl sampling objectives when possible
SI Guidance, chapter 4
OH-1
Notes:
Sampling Strategies
page 5-2
4/94
-------
SAMPLING STRATEGIES
Bias sampling locations toward areas with potential for hazardous
substance concentrations higher than background
s
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SI Guidance, chapter 4
OH»2
4/94
Sampling Strategies
page 5-3
-------
SAMPLING STRATEGIES
Selecting Analytical Parameters
Review
Existing Data
Does
high quality
analytical data
exist?
SI Guidance, chapter 4
1
Yes
May perform
partial analyses
based on prior
results
Perform full
TCL (TAL)
analyses
OH« 3
General SI Sampling Principles
Sample to:
• Identify targets exposed to actual contamination
• Identify all hazardous substances present
• Demonstrate a release
• Support attribution
• Establish representative background concentrations
• Ensure appropriate QA/QC
SI Guidance, chapter 4.1.1
OH »4
Sampling Strategies
page 5-4
4/94
-------
SAMPLING STRATEGIES
Focused SI Sampling Principles
Collect analytical data to test PA hypotheses
• Identify hazardous substances present
• Determine whether a release has occurred
• Determine impact on targets
Determine need for further investigations
SI Guidance, chapter 4.1.2
OH* 5
Focused SI Sampling Considerations
Concentrate samples on major pathways affecting
the score
Use previous analytical data
Limit collection of background and QA/QC samples
S/ Guidance, chapter 4.1.2
OH-6
4/94
Sampling Strategies
page 5-5
-------
TABLE 4-2: PRIORITIES FOR FOCUSED SI SAMPLES
SAMPLE BUDGET
CATEGORY
Number of pathways to
evaluate with samples
Number of targets sampled
Number of sources sampled
Number of release samples
Number of background and
QA/QC samples
Other criteria
PRIORITIES
Sample patnways cnucal to PA further action recommendation
If multiple pathways are critical to screening decision, plan sampling to test
all cnucal hypotheses
Sample primary drinking water wells and intakes suspected of exposure to
site-related contamination (see glossary: Primary Target)
Sample nearest targets or targets most likely to be exposed to site-related
contamination for critical pathways if contamination suspected during PA
If sample budget permits, take more than one sample at surface water and
soil target locations that are critical to the site decision
Sample sources to identify hazardous substances present at site
If multiple sources exist, sample each different source type
Sample to test if a release has occurred for cnucal pathways. When
possible, test release hypotheses in conjunction with target samples
If the magnitude of potentially contaminated targets is responsible for
screening decision, limit number of release samples
Limit collection of background and QA/QC samples to those needed to
screen site. Background or QA/QC samples may not be necessary
Use previous analytical data to plan sample locations
Do not resample at locations where reliable previous analytical data detected
a hazardous substance
Guidance for Performing Site Inspections Under CERCLA, USEPA, Sept. 1992
Sampling Strategies
page 5-6
-------
• SAMPLING STRATEGIES •
Expanded and Single SI Sampling Principles
Collect fully documented data to prepare MRS package
• Document observed releases
• Document observed contamination
• Document levels of target exposure
Collect field data for the Rl when appropriate
Conduct field activities beyond the scope of focused SI
Turn to SI Guidance, Section 4.1.3,
page 49, for list of expanded SI activities
SI Guidance, chapter 4.1.3
OH»7
Expanded and Single SI Considerations
Collect samples to improve documentation for factors that
significantly affect scoring
Collect adequate background and QA/QC samples
SI Guidance, chapter 4.1.3
OH* 8
10/94
Sampling Strategies
page 5-7
-------
TABLE 4-3: PRIORITIES FOR EXPANDED SI SAMPLES
SAMPLING CRITERIA
PRIORITIES
Number of pathways
sampled
Sample pathways critical to site score
If multiple pathways are critical to site score, sample to fully document all
remaining site hypotheses
Number of targets sampled
Sample targets (e.g., drinking water wells and intakes, residential and school
properties, surface water sensitive environments and wetlands) most likely to
be exposed to site-related contamination
Resample targets where previous analytical results are questionable, or where
background concentrations are needed to document contamination of targets
Number of sources sampled
Sample sources to attribute hazardous substances to site
Sample to more fully describe areas of observed surficial contamination
If multiple source types exist at site, at a minimum, sample each different
source type
Number of release samples
Sample to document a release for critical pathways. When possible, collect
samples to document an observed release in conjunction with a target
exposed to actual contamination
Limit number of release samples to critical pathways
Number of background and
QA/QC samples
Collect background and QA/QC samples necessary to confidently document
site score
Other criteria
Use previous analytical data to optimize sample locations
Do not resample at locations where reliable previous analytical data fully
documented a hazardous substance or a release unless samples are needed to
pair those with background samples taken at the same time
Guidance for Performing Site Inspections Under CERCLA, USEPA. Sept. 1992
Sampling Strategies
page 5-8
-------
SAMPLING STRATEGIES
Comparison of SI Data Collection Activities
Activity
Nonsampling data
collection
Source sampling
Target sampling
Release sampling
Background sampling
Attribution sampling
QA/QC sampling
Special data collection
or sampling tasks
Focused SI
Expanded and
Single SI
SI Guidance, chapter 4.1.3
OH* 9
QA/QC Samples
Collected to confirm precision and accuracy of data
QA/QC samples for focused Sis are limited
- One aqueous trip blank
- One equipment rinsate blank for each medium collected
Suggested QA/QC sample guidance for expanded and single Sis
is found in Table 4-6 (Note: EPA regional guidance may differ)
Turn to Table 4-6, Guidance for
Minimum QA/QC Samples: Expanded SI or Single SI,
page 56, SI Guidance
SI Guidance, chapter 4.3
OH»10
10/94
Sampling Strategies
page 5-9
-------
SAMPLING STRATEGIES
Sampled
SDI
SD2
SS1
SSB
SW1
SW2
SWB
S1
GW1
GWB
Mini Exercise: QA/QC Samples
• GWB
• SSB
Residence
£ Private
well
GW1
Small stream
(10cfs)
SWB
S = source
SW = surface water
SD = sediment
SS = surface soil
GW = ground water
0 25ft 50(1
Sampling Plan
Rationale
Sediment from lagoon
Sediment from probable point
of entry (PPE)
Surface soil from ditch
Surface soil background
Surface water at PPE
Surface water downstream
of PPE
Surface water background
Source (aqueous)
Ground water from private well
Ground water background
QA/QC Samples
Focused SI
Expanded SI
OH* 11
Sampling Strategies
page 5-10
4/94
-------
• SAMPLING STRATEGIES
Demonstrating a Release: MRS Requirements
An observed release can be documented by:
• Direct observation
• Chemical analysis
SI Guidance, chapter4.4.1
OH«12
Demonstrating a Release by Sampling
Key Factor: To demonstrate a release by chemical analysis
for a pathway, at least one sample must show
contamination significantly above the background
level for a hazardous substance
See SI Guidance, page 59, for a discussion of the term "significance"
SI Guidance, chapter 4.4.1
OH »13
4/94
Sampling Strategies
page 5-11
-------
SAMPLING STRATEGIES
Demonstrating a Release by Sampling
Three Primary Factors
Background
Attribution
Target
Document observed release
(actual contamination)
SI Guidance, chapter 4.4.1
OH'14
Demonstrating a Release by Sampling: Background
Considerations
• Naturally occurring vs. man-made concentrations
• Chemical analytical data vs. published data
• Comparability of background and release samples
• Background sampling locations
SI Guidance, chapter 4.4.1
OH'15
Sampling Strategies
page 5-12
4/94
-------
• SAMPLING STRATEGIES
Demonstrating a Release by Sampling: Attribution
Considerations
• Some portion of the release must be attributable to one or more
sources
• Can use a unique hazardous substance from a site to
differentiate it from other sites
• May be addressed by source characterization
SI Guidance, chapter 4.4.1
OH'16
Attribution?
Source
Sample
Benzene
Toluene
Xylene
Background
am
non-detects
Source
Sample
1,2-DCE
Benzene
Toluene
Xylene
Release
Sample
1,2-DCE
Toluene
OH»17
10/94
Sampling Strategies
page 5-13
-------
SAMPLING STRATEGIES
Demonstrating a Release by Sampling: Targets
Evaluate target factors
• Nearest individual
• Population
• Sensitive environments, including wetlands
Evaluate on the basis of:
• Actual contamination
• Potential contamination
SI Guidance, chapter 4.4.1 OH • 18
Demonstrating Actual Contamination
Must first demonstrate observed release
Targets exposed to concentrations meeting observed release
criteria are evaluated as actually contaminated
Two degrees of actual contamination
- Level I = concentration > applicable benchmark(s)
- Level II = concentration < applicable benchmark(s)
SI Guidance, chapter 4.4.1 OH • 19
Sampling Strategies 4/94
page 5-14
-------
SAMPLING STRATEGIES
Actual Contamination?
Concentrations (in \iglL)
Analyte
Compound x
Site
25
Background
5U
Intake
20
Benchmark
15
U = nondetect
OH* 20
Sampling Strategies: Conclusions
The key to any successful SI: sample smart
• Conserve resources
• Set sampling priorities
• Emphasize dual-purpose sampling
• Use previous analytical data to augment scope
• Tailor sampling to meet SI objectives
• Consider MRS math when planning samples
- Focus on major pathway(s)
- Focus on critical HRS factors
OH-21
4/94
Sampling Strategies
page 5-15
-------
Section 6:
Source Characterization
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-------
SOURCE CHARACTERIZATION
Source Definition
"An area where hazardous substances may have been
deposited, stored, disposed of, or placed. Also, soil that
may have become contaminated as a result of hazardous
substance migration."
SI Guidance, glossary, page 121
OH*1
Basic Principles
Sample to confirm or refute contamination at site
' Sample to characterize sources
• Identify hazardous «ubstances present
• Support determination of waste characteristics
• Support attribution
SI Guidance, section 4.2
OH-2
Source Characterization
page 6-2
4/94
-------
SOURCE CHARACTERIZATION
Guidelines
Sample as many different types of sources as possible
Sample visibly contaminated soil near drums or containers—do
not sample drums or containers themselves
Sample within 2 feet of ground surface (soil exposure pathway
considerations)
Sample where wastes are likely to collect or be concentrated
Collect background sample for selected sources (for example,
contaminated soil)
Use composite samples carefully
SI Guidance, section 4.2 OH • 3
Notes:
4/94 Source Characterization
page 6-3
-------
SOURCE CHARACTERIZATION
Q>
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Source Characterization
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OH* 4
Source Characterization
page 6-4
4/94
-------
SOURCE CHARACTERIZATION
Focused Si Strategy
• Primary objective is identifying hazardous substances present at
the site
• Should not attempt to establish degree of containment of
source(s)
• Source area, volume, and hazardous constituent estimates are
beyond the scope of focused SI
SI Guidance, section 4.2.1 OH • 5
Expanded and Single SI Strategy
Emphasis is on HRS documentation requirements
May not need further characterization after focused SI
May collect samples to document containment
Generally, do not collect samples to document hazardous waste
quantity
SI Guidance, section 4.2.2 OH • 6
4/94 Source Characterization
page 6-5
-------
TABLE 4-4: SOURCE SAMPLING STRATEGIES
CRITERION
FOCUSED SI
EXPANDED SI AND SINGLE SI
Primary objective
To identify hazardous
substances associated with site
sources; to confirm substances
known or suspected
To refine target distance limits
To verify inconclusive data collected during
focused SI
In limited situations, to help quantify hazardous
waste quantity
Data quality
All DUCs
DUC-I for hazardous constituent quantity
DUC-I and DUC-II to establish heterogeneity
or homogeneity of wastes
All DUCs for other hazardous waste quantity
measures and to identify hazardous substances
associated with site sources
Samples to help
demonstrate observed
contamination
Generally limited to samples
used to test a site hypothesis
regarding soil contamination
within 2 feet of surface
Samples to further describe the areas of
observed contamination in the direction of
targets for the soil exposure pathway
Samples to help
evaluate source
containment or source
type
Generally not collected
Generally only collected when the containment
factor value for a migration pathway is not 10;
sometimes collected to demonstrate a biogas
release if air pathway is significant pathway
Samples to help
describe source
boundaries and estimate
hazardous waste
quantity
Generally limited to surficial
samples within 2 feet of
surface
Generally limited to
contaminated soil sources
In certain situations, samples lo estimate the
depth of a source or to further describe the
area of sources other than contaminated soil
(e.g., landfill, land treatment, buried surface
impoundment)
In certain situations, samples to estimate
hazardous constituent quantity or hazardous
waste volume quantity
Guidance for Performing Site Inspections Under CERCLA, USEPA, Sept. 7992
Source Characterization
page 6-6
-------
SOURCE CHARACTERIZATION
CASE STUDY
EXAMPLE OF SOURCE SAMPLING STRATEGY
Located near a town of 10,000 people, the Lakefield Farm Site is an abandoned strawberry
farm that was used for various types of waste activities for an unknown period (see Lakefieid
Farm Site Sketch #1). During the preliminary assessment, three potential sources were identi-
fied: a wet surface impoundment with a volume of approximately 45,000 cubic feet of electro-
plating sludge; a drum storage area containing about 30 leaking drums (contents unknown) at
the southeast corner of the site; and an area of stained soil near the site's western boundary.
Lakefield Farm Site Sketch 1
Surfaoe Impound men I
(Sludge)
Stained Soil
Nearest Well and
Nearest
Individu&j
LAKEFIELD
FARM SITE
KEY
Source samples
Drintang water well
Irrigation well
GREENACRES
SUBDIVISION
6 -4-6 -4-6
Municipal Well
N
NOT TO SCALE
4/94
Source Characterization
page 6-7
-------
• SOURCE CHARACTERIZATION
SOURCE SAMPLING STRATEGY FOR EXAMPLE SITE
Potential Waste
Source Area
Focused SI
Sampling Strategy
HRS
Considerations
Nonsampling
Data Collection
Wet surface
impoundment
Collect one composite
source sample of
impoundment sediments
(SD-1) plus one sludge
sample (SL-1) to
evaluate hazardous
substances present
More than 675,000
cubic feet is needed to
increase HWQ factor
to next category value
Obtain physical
dimensions of
source: evaluate
containment,
consider using aerial
photographs
Drum storage area
Collect one composite
surficial soil sample
(SS-1) from beneath
drums to determine
hazardous substances
present
More than 1,000
drums are needed to
increase HWQ factor
value to next category
value
Verify number of
drums, evaluate
containment, look for
container markings,
examine area around
drums M
Stained soil
Collect one composite
surficial soil sample
(SS-2) to determine
whether area is
contaminated and to
identify hazardous
substances
More than 78 acres of
contaminated soil are
needed to increase
HWQ factor value to
next category value
Obtain physical
dimensions of area,
evaluate containment
Source Characterization
page 6-8
4/94
-------
I
Section 7:
Ground Water Pathway
Resources
Wellhead
protection
area
Ground water
population
AQUIFER
-------
GROUND WATER PATHWAY
Ground Water Pathway
Basis for pathway score
• Number of people served by each aquifer
• Likelihood of release to each aquifer
• Likelihood that drinking water wells are contaminated
by site
SI Guidance, section 4.5 OH • 1
Ground Water Pathway: Review PA Information
Determine whether major pathway of concern is based on:
• Suspected release
• Primary targets
• Number of secondary targets
Was contamination already been demonstrated?
• Previous sampling
• Reports of suspected release
• Number of secondary targets
OH '2
Ground Water Pathway 4/94
page 7-2
-------
= • GROUND WATER PATHWAY
I
Ground Water Pathway: Review PA Information
Identify specific information concerning primary targets
- Type of well/population served
- Distance from sources
- Depth of screened interval
Identify wellhead protection areas
' Identify relevant hydrogeological information
Identify potentially affected resources
Where do you expect hazardous substances to be found?
(sinkers vs. floaters)
OH* 3
Ground Water Pathway
Compile existing analytical and nonsampling information
SI data summary document can be used to:
• Summarize existing information
• Identify factors not fully evaluated
• Focus additional data collection efforts
Turn to SI Guidance, Appendix B, SI Data Summary
SI Guidance, appendix B OH • 4
4/94 Ground Water Pathway
page 7-3
-------
GROUND WATER PATHWAY
Ground Water Pathway:
MRS Considerations
Waste
Characterization
>
f
Likelihood
of Release
>
f
Conducted under
source characterization
Demonstrate/document
release
Targets
Actual
contamination
vs.
potential
contamination
OH»5
Ground Water Pathway:
Likelihood of Release
Document an observed release by:
• Direct observation
• Chemical analysis
Chemical analysis is preferred
SI Guidance, section 4.5
OH«6
Ground Water Pathway
page 7-4
4/94
-------
GROUND WATER PATHWAY
Ground Water Pathway:
Likelihood of Release
At least two groundwater samples are needed to document
an observed release
• Background sample
• Release sample
Well samples should be from same aquifer and comparable
screened intervals
Wells should be of similar construction
OH»7
Ground Water Pathway: Likelihood of Release
Observed Release?
Contaminated
well sample
200'
Background
well sample
OH«8
4/94
Ground Water Pathway
page 7-5
-------
GROUND WATER PATHWAY
Ground Water Pathway:
Likelihood of Release
Sample nearest well expected to be contaminated
Background well should be out of influence of site
Sample both wells within 1-3 days
Samples should be similar
- sample analyses
- filtered or unfiltered
SI Guidance, Section 4.5 OH • 9
Ground Water Pathway:
Targets
PA primary targets are sampled to establish "actual
contamination"
PA secondary targets become "potential contamination"
OH-10
Ground Water Pathway 4/94
page 7-6
-------
GROUND WATER PATHWAY
Ground Water Pathway:
Targets
Ground water pathway targets
- Municipal drinking water wells
- Private drinking water wells
- Public drinking water wells
Always sample nearest target well
Attempt to sample all primary targets
Cannot infer contamination between wells for actual
contamination
S/ Guidance, section 4.5
OH-11
Ground Water Pathway:
Ground Water Sampling Considerations
Water
tower
Background
well
OH'12
4/94
Ground Water Pathway
page 7-7
-------
GROUND WATER PATHWAY
Ground Water Sampling
Type of Well
Monitoring
Private
Municipal
Industrial
Irrigation
Standby
Background
Observed
Release
Actual
Contamination
OH-13
Ground Water Pathway:
Focused SI Strategy-Release
If PA hypothesized release to groundwater
• Sample to test hypotheses
• Sample nearest drinking water well
Sampling to establish and document an observed release not
necessarily in scope of focused SI
• Background wells may not be available
• Wells near source(s) may not exist
• Monitoring wells are an expanded SI activity
Can use other sources to establish background if necessary
SI Guidance, section 4.5.1 OH • 14
Ground Water Pathway
page 7-8
4/94
-------
GROUND WATER PATHWAY
Ground Water Pathway:
Focused SI Strategy-Targets
• Not every primary target well must be sampled
• Sample wells where detection of hazardous substances is likely
• Sample critical well locations
• Target well = drinking water well
Background well = any type of well
• Some wells can serve as their own background wells if
continuous monitoring data are available
S/ Guidance, section 4.5.1 OH • 15
Ground Water Pathway:
Focused SI Strategy-Actual Contamination
If "actual contamination" is hypothesized
• Drinking water wells should be sampled
• If all wells cannot be sampled, sample nearby and municipal wells
• Sample remaining wells during expanded SI
Can use samples from target wells to demonstrate observed
release and actual contamination
SI Guidance, section 4.5.1 OH • 16
4/94 Ground Water Pathway
page 7-9
-------
GROUND WATER PATHWAY
Which Wells Should Be Sampled
to Test for Actual Contamination?
Source
/H,
Ground Water Flow
\>
.jTx, Private Well
4D Industrial Well
o.e
scale In miles
OH»17
Ground Water Pathway:
Focused SI Strategy-Blended Systems
2 mile
Wells A, B, and C are
part of a blended
system. Which wells
should be sampled.
SI Guidance, section 4.5.1
OH'18
Ground Water Pathway
page 7-10
4/94
-------
GROUND WATER PATHWAY
Expanded SI and Single Si Strategy
Review existing analytical data
from wells in the vicinity
of the site
• Check for abnormalities
• Determine need for resampling
SI Guidance, section 4.5.2
ABC Site. Analytical Data
Samples Results
-tt
ft
TTT-JP--
,<>.„.»
OH-19
Expanded SI and Single SI Activity:
Document Observed Release
Resample wells as needed
Sample wells not tested during focused SI
Collect background samples
Install monitoring wells
Collect QC samples
OH* 20
4/94
Ground Water Pathway
page 7-11
-------
GROUND WATER PATHWAY
Expanded SI and Single SI Activity:
Ground Water Target Sampling Considerations
• "Actual contamination" requires an observed release, attribution,
and presence of hazardous substance at target
• Collect QC samples
• Base well selection on ground water flow direction
• Background well should be upgradient or at least outside of the
influence of sources
• Focus on targets
SI Guidance, section 4.5.2 OH • 21
Expanded SI and Single SI Activity:
Monitoring Well Installation
Done only on sites expected to score because of observed
release
May not be necessary if ground water pathway is not critical site
score
Do not install wells in karst aquifers
SI Guidance, section 4.5.2 OH • 22
Ground Water Pathway 4/94
page 7-12
-------
TABLE 4-8: GROUND WATER SAMPLING STRATEGIES
CRITERION
Primary objective
Data quality (see
section 5.2)
Average number of
samples
Types of activities
Background samples
Attribution samples
QA/QC samples
FOCUSED SI
To test hypotheses regarding a suspected
release or targets suspected to be exposed
to actual contamination
When possible, test release hypothesis in
conjunction with target sampling
Less rigorous (e.g, DUC-II) to rigorous
0 to 6 depending on site hypotheses and
number of existing wells to sample
Sample existing wells
Install drive points or shallow boreholes
if there are no nearby wells
Limited, 1 background per 3 release
samples
May rely on published regional data
Limited to testing release hypotheses
Limited to testing release hypotheses
EXPANDED SI AND SINGLE SI
To demonstrate a release based on HRS
documentation requirements
To demonstrate targets exposed to actual
contamination and determine levels of
exposure
Rigorous (e.g., DUC-I)
0 to 14 based on HRS documentation
requirements
Resample existing wells if previous data
did not conclusively demonstrate a release
or targets exposed to actual contamination
Sample wells not yet sampled
Collect multiple samples from drinking-
water wells where hazardous substance
concentrations are likely to be near
benchmarks
Install monitoring wells as needed
2 background per 3 release samples
Install background monitoring wells, if
necessary
Generally should not rely on published
data
Those necessary to attribute a share of a
release to the site
Those necessary to obtain precise and
accurate data
Guidance for Performing Site Inspections Under CERCLA, USEPA, Sept. 1992
Ground Water Pathway
page 7-13
-------
GROUND WATER PATHWAY
Ground Water Pathway
After sampling and analysis have been completed, compile new
information
Complete SI data summary sheets pertaining to ground water
Turn to SI Guidance, Appendix B, SI Data Summary
OH-23
Notes:
Ground Water Pathway
page 7-14
4/94
-------
GROUND WATER PATHWAY
CASE STUDY
EXAMPLE OF GROUND WATER SAMPLING STRATEGY: FOCUSED SI
During the PA it was determined that residents near the Lakefield Farm Site rely on shallow
domestic wells for drinking water- (see Lakefield Farm Site Sketch 2). A municipal well that
provides drinking water to about 10,000 people is located 0.5 miles southeast of the site. The
municipal well and several nearby irrigation wells are screened in the deep aquifer, which
appears to be interconnected with the shallow aquifer. The PA identified the primary targets
as all domestic wells within 0.25 miles of the site and the municipal well. The focused SI
indicated ground water flows to the south. Several domestic wells appear to be downgradient
from the site.
Lakefield Farm Site Sketch 2
•4-
CW-2
GW-1
T
ft
SL-1 GW-3T
ft
Direction of
ground water flow
Ncuesl
Well
Xl:$" £
felr LAKEFIELD
FARM SITE
ss-i
i
ft*-"^
I—I I r,w.<
GW-4
i i
GW-S
ft
KEY
•+• Drinking Wner Well
• Source Simple
-fat- Irrigation Well
G \V-fi
GW-7
GW-E
GW-lo' GW-11
GREEN ACRES
SUBDIVISION
0 ' 0
Municipal Well
GW-12
—N
NOT TO SCALE
4/94
Ground Water Pathway
page 7-15
-------
GROUND WATER PATHWAY
GROUND WATER SAMPLING STRATEGY FOR EXAMPLE SITE
FOCUSED SI
Samples
Municipal well (GW-12)
Domestic wells (GW-3,
GW-4, GW-5, GW-6,
GW-7, GW-8, GW-9,
GW-10, GW-11)
Background (GW-1,
GW-2)
Sources (SD-1, SL-1,
SS-1.SS-2)
Quality control (Q-1,
Q-2) (not shown)
Focused SI
Sampling Strategy
Collect sample prior to treatment:
sample to document
contamination, identify hazardous
substances, and determine level
of contamination
Sample nearest domestic drinking
water wells suspected of exposure
to contamination
Sample drinking water aquifer;
limit number of background
samples
Collect grab or composite soil
samples to identify hazardous
substances present at site
Monitor sample collection and
decontamination procedures, one
nnsate and one field blank
HRS
Considerations
Determine municipal well
contaminaton, which is critical
to protecting public health and
the screening decision
Determine domestic well
contamination, which is critical
to protecting public health and
the screening decision
Sample to determine
concentrations of hazardous
substances
Do not sample to increase
hazardous waste quantity
(amounts are not close to HWQ
factor value breakpoints)
Nonsamplmg
Data Collection
Verify aquifer from which well
draws; verify population
served
Verify aquifer from which wells
draw, verify population served
Verify aquifer from which well
draws
Obtain physical dimensions of
surface impoundment and
estimate area of contaminated
soil; verify number of drums
and look for drum labels
Ground Water Pathway
page 7-16
4/94
-------
Section 8:
Surface Water Pathway
I .. Stito G«m»
Htntgement Ar»f'.:
station
Ltktor
occult
Target distance
Nn* X^
-------
SURFACE WATER PATHWAY
Surface Water Pathway
Score based on:
• Likelihood of release to a surface water body
• Likelihood that surface water is contaminated by the site
• Number of people exposed to contaminated drinking water or
contaminated food items
• Sensitive environments exposed to contaminated water
SI Guidance, section 4.6
OH-1
Surface Water Pathway
Key Factor: If there are no surface waters within 2 miles of
the site, the surface water pathway need not be
evaluated
SI Guidance, section 4.6
OH* 2
Surface Water Pathway
page 8-2
10/94
-------
SURFACE WATER PATHWAY
Surface Water Pathway
Examples of surface water bodies
• Perennially flowing ditches, streams, and rivers
• Isolated but perennial ponds or lakes (excludes man-made used
for industrial purposes)
• Intermittent streams only in areas with less than 20 inches mean
annual precipitation
• Natural and man-made wetlands
SI Guidance, section 4.6
OH-3
How Contaminants Reach Surface Water
Overland flow
Flood
• Ground water
discharge to surface
water
SI Guidance, section 4.6
Runoff
Sourc*
Percolation
flow
OH* 4
4/94
Surface Water Pathway
page 8-3
-------
• SURFACE WATER PATHWAY •
Surface Water: Multiple Targets
Waste
Characteristics
S/ Guidance, section 4.6
Likelihood
of Release
Drinking
Water
Human Food
Chain
Environmental
T h ra o *
OH* 5
Surface Water Pathway Investigation
Complete the SI Data Summary Surface
Water section using available data
See SI Guidance, Appendix B, Surface Water
Information Section, pages B-12 through B-15
SI Guidance, appendix B
OH-6
Surface Water Pathway
page 8-4
4/94
-------
SURFACE WATER PATHWAY
Review PA Information
Determine whether major pathway of concern is based on:
• Suspected release
• Primary targets
• Number of secondary targets
SI Guidance, section 4.6 OH • 7
Review PA Information
Identify physical characteristics of surface water migration route
• Is overland segment greater than 2 miles?
• Are there multiple watersheds?
• Location of PPE(s)
• Tidal influence
• Flow rate for each segment of migration path
S/ Guidance, section 4.6 OH « 8
4/94 Surface Water Pathway
page 8-5
-------
SURFACE WATER PATHWAY
Review PA Information
Identify locations of primary targets
• Drinking water intakes
• Fisheries
• Wetlands and other sensitive environments
SI Guidance, section 4.6 OH • 9
Surface Water Sampling Considerations
Are sources actively discharging contamination to surface water?
How old is the site?
What are surface water flow characteristics?
What are the chemical properties of hazardous substances of
concern (for example, persistence and bioaccumulation
potential)?
SI Guidance, section 4.6 OH • 10
Surface Water Pathway 4/94
page 8-6
-------
SURFACE WATER PATHWAY
Sample Type Considerations
Sediment, Aqueous, or Tissue
• Sediment samples typically detect contamination more often than
other sample types
• Consider adding aqueous samples for intakes or sensitive
environments
• Tissue samples are generally not recommended
SI Guidance, section 4.6
OH
Likelihood of Release:
Observed Release By Direct Observation
Hazardous substance seen entering or known to have been
deposited into perennial surface water
• Sample effluent discharge, source runoff, or leachate (no
background required)
or
• Rely on existing analytical data indicating effluent contains
hazardous substance
• Must sample discharge, runoff, or leachate to show they contain
hazardous substance
SI Guidance, section 4.6
OH'12
4/94
Surface Water Pathway
page 8-7
-------
• SURFACE WATER PATHWAY •
Likelihood of Release:
Observed Release By Direct Observation
Source area flooded and hazardous substances in direct contact
with flood waters
• Must rely on historical "source" data and flood information
• No SI sampling necessary
SI Guidance, section 4.6 OH • 13
Likelihood of Release:
Observed Release By Chemical Analysis
• Minimum of two samples
- One background sample upstream from PPE
- Second sample at or reasonably close to PPE (downstream
sample)
• If multiple PPEs present, sample each
• Background and release samples must be same type and from
same or similar water body
SI Guidance, section 4,6 OH • 14
Surface Water Pathway 4/94
page 8-8
-------
SURFACE WATER PATHWAY
Sample to Establish Background
Wetland
Landfill
Bald eagle
habitat
Key
Flow direction
Intermittent stream
OH«15
4/94
Surface Waiter Pathway
page 8-9
-------
SURFACE WATER PATHWAY
Likelihood of Release:
Observed Release By Chemical Analysis
Comparable sampling and analytical procedures
Collect most downstream samples first
Collect aqueous samples before sediment samples at same
location
SI Guidance, section 4.6
OH* 16
Sample to Test Suspected Release
OH* 17
Surface Water Pathway
page 8-10
4/94
-------
SURFACE WATER PATHWAY
Targets
Sampling considerations for actual contamination
• Must establish observed release first
• Can infer contamination between "hits"
- No need to sample each target
- Can sample adjacent to or beyond (downstream of) target
locations
• Sample for human health considerations, regardless of score
- Always sample nearest drinking water intake if contamination is
suspected
SI Guidance, section 4.6
OH
Targets: Inferring Contamination
Source
OH«19
4/94
Surface Water Pathway
page 8-11
-------
• SURFACE WATER PATHWAY •
Inferring Contamination
Wetland
Landfill
Bald eagle
habitat
Key
Flow direction
Intermittent stream
OH«20
Surface Water Pathway
page 8-12
4/94
-------
SURFACE WATER PATHWAY
Targets: Drinking Water Threat
To demonstrate actual contamination:
• Sample types
- Aqueous
- Sediment
- Sessile benthic
• Collect samples at or downstream of target (intake)
• Compare analytical results to benchmarks
• Only aqueous samples can be used to score Level I targets
• Level II can be established with any sample type
SI Guidance, section 4.6
OH'21
Surface Water Benchmarks
SW Threat
Drinking water
Environmental
Human food
chain
Benchmark
MCL
MCLG
Screening concentrations
AWQC
AALAC
FDAAL
Screening concentrations
Sample Type
Aqueous
Aqueous
Tissue
SI Guidance, section 4.6 OH • 22
4/94
Surface Water Pathway
page 8-13
-------
SURFACE WATER PATHWAY
Actual Contamination?
Level of Contamination?
PPE A
Sample I ocation
Flow
Drinking
water
intake
15-mile
target distance limit
Sample
SW1
SW2
SW3
Result
Nondetect
1 00 ppb
50 ppb
Benchmark
10 ppb
OH«23
Surface Water Pathway
page 8-14
4/94
-------
• SURFACE WATER PATHWAY •
Targets: Human Food Chain Threat
Demonstrate actual contamination
• Only attempt if this threat is essential to site score
• Use sediment samples (not organisms)
• Tissue sampling is expanded SI activity
• If fishery is closed for fishing, surface water sample can be used
to establish threat
• Collect multiple samples
OH'24
Targets: Human Food Chain Threat
Sampling considerations for actual contamination
• Observed release at target + bioaccumulation potential factor
value (BCFV) considerations
• Sediment, aqueous, and effluent samples - require substance
within BCFV > 500
• Tissue samples - no BCFV requirement
OH»25
4/94 Surface Water Pathway
page 8-15
-------
SURFACE WATER PATHWAY
Actual Contamination?
Sample
SW1
SW2
SW3
SW4
Arsenic
2
175
190
80
Key
PPE
Sample location
Flow
OH»26
Surface Water Pathway
page 8-16
4/94
-------
SURFACE WATER PATHWAY
Targets: Environmental Threat
Determine actual contamination
• Only aqueous samples can be used to score Level I contamination
• Collect at or downstream of sensitive environment
• For wetlands
- Sample near PPE
- Two samples from wetland (at least 0.1 miles from PPE into
surface water)
• Collect unfiltered surface water
Sensitive environments for this pathway
are found in PA table 5 in the PA scoresheets
SI Guidance, section 4.6
OH-27
Notes:
4/94
Surface Water Pathway
page 8-17
-------
PA TABLE 5: SURFACE WATER AND AIR PATHWAY SENSITIVE ENVIRONMENTS VALUES
Stnsftive Environment
Ga»ignate*Y. or estuary
Migratory pathway* and fee-ding areai cntica1 for the maintenance of enaoromoui Inh spacivi in a nv»r jy»tem
Terre»tnal area* uulize<3 for br«*dtng by iafg« 01 denae aggregations of vertebrate animalt {air pathway) or
• «rrv*aQ Recreeiional
Habitat known to be uaexJ by Stale oetignBled erxlengoreo or threatened special
Habitat known to b» umed by a ipeciei under revnow a* to its r-eOeral endangered or threatened tiarui
Coaiial Barnef tbarneJIy dev*iopexj)
federally oe»tgnat»d Scenic 0' Wild Riv«r
50
State land Oattgneted (or wildttle or game management
Stale deiignatKJ Scenic or WiJd River
Slate dasignalfrd NefureJ Area
Particular ereat releuveiv anneH in sije. importon: to maintenance
unioue biotic
tSlBte OosignateC erean fpr_pfp(ecjiOn/maintenence of aQuatic_li^o unoer the CUej^ J*Vet6f Ac^\
Sec PA TabU 6 (Surtaco Water Pathway!
or
PA Table 9 (A-f Pathway)
PA TABLE 6: SURFACE WATER PATHWAY
WETLANDS FRONTAGE VALUES
Joial Lencrth of
Assigned Value
Leti than 0. 1 mne
0.1 to 1 mile
Greater than 1 to 2 mtlei
Greater than 2 to 3 miiei
Greater then 3 to * miles
Greater ihon 4 to B miiei
Greater then 8 to 12 miles
Greater then 12 to 16 miles
Greater than 16 to 20 milat
Great*' than 20 rrulo
0
25
50
IOC
150
250
350
450
50C
Surface Water Pathway
page 8-18
-------
= • SURFACE WATER PATHWAY •
I
Focused SI Strategy
If PA hypothesized release to surface water and targets are
present:
" Sample locations at or near PPE and background
• Sample effluent discharge (no background needed)
• Sample all drinking water intakes suspected to be exposed
(primary targets)
• If multiple primary target threats are present, collect sediment
samples
SI Guidance, section 4.6.1 OH • 28
Focused Si Strategy
To establish background
• Background and release/target samples must be same sample
type
• Background samples include:
- Sediments upstream of PPE (and out of site influence)
- Aqueous samples upstream of PPE (only if drinking water
targets are threatened)
SI Guidance, section 4.6.1 OH • 29
4/94 Surface Water Pathway
page 8-19
-------
SURFACE WATER PATHWAY
Expanded and Single SI Strategy
Determine whether aqueous samples are needed to demonstrate
a release
Collect surface water samples at targets that were not sampled
earlier
Sample to expand fishery and wetland boundaries if these are
important
Si Guidance, section 4.6.2 OH • 30
Notes:
Surface Water Pathway 4/94
page 8-20
-------
TABLE 4-10: SURFACE WATER SAMPLES TO SUPPORT A RELEASE AND TARGET
CONTAMINATION
HRS Factors
Observed release
Level I drinking water
Level II drinking water
Level I sensitive
environments
Level II sensitive
environments
Level I fisheries
Level II fisheries
Sediment1
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes5
Aqueous
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes5
Effluent2
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes5
Sessile
Dentine
Organisms
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
Yes3
Yes3
Non-sessile
Denthic
Organisms
No
No
No
No
No
Yes5-4
No
Finfish,
Amphibians, j
and Reptiles
No
No
No
No
No
Yes3'4
No
1 No benchmarks available; evaluate as Level II contamination.
J Does not require comparison to background to document a release.
3 Sample only tissues of edible species to evaluate human food chain level of contamination.
* Can be used to score Level I targets, but not an observed release; must be collected within boundaries of
surface water contamination.
5 Targets can be evaluated if hazardous substance has a bioaccumulation factor value of 500 or greater.
Guidance for Performing Site Inspections Under CERCLA, USEPA, 1992
4/94
Surface Water Pathway
page 8-21
-------
SURFACE WATER PATHWAY
Surface Water Sampling Strategies
• SI Guidance, Table 4-11, Surface Water Sampling
Strategies, presents focused, expanded, and single SI
sampling criteria and strategies
• Prior to sampling, carefully plot sample locations using
information gathered during the site reconnaissance and
the nonsarnpling investigation
• Photodocument sample locations to aid in data
evaluation and to resample locations if necessary
SI Guidance, section 4.6.3 OH • 31
Notes:
Surface Water Pathway 4/94
page 8-22
-------
TABLE 4-11: SURFACE WATER SAMPLING STRATEGIES
! CRITERION
Pnmary
objectives
Data quality
Average
number of
samples
Types of
activities
Background
samples
Attribution
samples
QA/QC
samples
FOCUSED SI
To test hypotheses regarding a suspected
release and primary targets
When possible, sample at or beyond targets
to test release hypotheses
Less ngorous (e.g, DUC-II) to rigorous
(e.g., DUC-I)
0 to 6 depending on site hypotheses and
number of surface water targets to sample
Sample easily accessible surface water
locations
Sample sediments at or beyond targets most
likely to indicate contamination
1 background per 3 release samples
May rely on published data
Limited to testing release hypotheses
Enhance confidence in sample results
EXPANDED SI AND SINGLE SI
To document a release based on HRS
requirements
To document targets exposed to actual
contamination and determine levels of
exposure
Rigorous (e.g., DUC-I)
0 to 14 based on HRS documentation
requirements
Resample surface water locations if
previous data did not document a release
or targets exposed to actual contamination
Sample surface water targets not yet
sampled, particularly sensitive
environments and wetlands
Collect multiple aqueous samples from
drinking water intakes where hazardous
substance concentrations are likely to be
near surface water benchmarks
2 background per 3 release samples
Should not rely on published data
Those necessary to attribute a portion of a
release to the site
Those necessary to obtain precise and
accurate data within the SI scope
Guidance for Performing Site Inspections Under CERCLA, USEPA, 1992
Surface Water Pathway
page 8-23
-------
• SURFACE WATER PATHWAY
CASE STUDY
EXAMPLE OF SURFACE WATER SAMPLING STRATEGY: FOCUSED SI
Returning to the Lakefield Farm Site example, the site description now includes the Apsley
River, a moderate-to-large water body (streamflow 900 cfs) approximately 200 feet north of the
surface impoundment (see Lakefield Farm Site Sketch 3) A recreational fishery is located
within the river, and a 10-acre wetland lies 1 mile downstream from the PPE. An unnamed
creek flows into the Apsley River about 750 feet upstream of the PPE, and an outfall to this
creek is 1 mile upstream of this confluence. During the PA, the investigator suspected a
release to the Apsley River from the Lakefield Farm and a release to ground water.
Because of significant threats to both ground water and surface water and because attribution
is a problem, a focused SI is planned with an expanded SI to be performed if necessary.
Focused SI sampling will test whether ground water and surface water targets are exposed to
contamination.
Lakefield Farm Site Sketch 3
j-jSED-7
GW-4
KEY
Q Surface wale: sediment simple
Q Suffice waler aqueous sample
• Source sample
••" Drinking water well
-Q- Irrigation well
•yf Fishery
GW-6
GREEN ACUES
SUBDIVISION
Surface Water Pathway
page 8-24
Municipal Well
I
GW-7
•N
NOT TO SCALE
4/94
-------
SURFACE WATER PATHWAY
SURFACE AND GROUND WATER SAMPLING STRATEGY FOR EXAMPLE SITE:
FOCUSED SI
Samples
Approach
Rationale
Nonsampkng
Data Collection
Municipal well (GW-7)
Sample drinking water pnor to
treatment; sample to document
contamination, identify hazardous
substances, and determine level
of contamination
Determining municipal well
contamination is critical to protecting
public health and to the site screening
decision
Verify aquifer from which well draws,
verify population served
Domestic wells
(GW-3 through GW-6)
Sample nearest domestic wells
suspected to be exposed to actual
contamination
Determining domestic well
contamination is critical to protecting
public health and to the site screening
decision
Verify aquifer from which wells draw;
verify population served
Background for ground
water
Sample drinking water aquifer;
limit number of background
samples
Sample to determine relative
concentrations of hazardous
substances in ambient conditions
Verify aquifer from whtch wells draw
Surface water target
locations
Sample sediments to determine if
contamination is present in the
fishery (SED-4) or wetland
(SED-5, SED-6)
Human food chain or sensitive
environment contamination is vital to
screening decision
Verify linear footage of wetland
exposed to actual contamination
Background for surface
water (SW-1, SED-1)
Limit number of background
samples
Sample to determine levels of
hazardous substances
Collect information about background
sample location, including setting,
flow, and physical characteristics
(e.g., sediment grain size)
Sources
(SD-1, SL-1.SS-1, SS-2)
Identify hazardous substances
present at the site through
composite samples
Do not sample to increase hazardous
waste quantity if amounts are not close
to HWQ factor value breakpoints
Obtain physical dimensions of
surface impoundment and estimate
area of contaminated soil; verify
number of drums and look for drum
labels
Quality control
(Q-1 through Q-4)
(not shown)
Monitor collection and
decontamination procedures; one
hnsate for ground water
equipment, one nnsate for surface
water equipment, one trip and one
field blank
4/94
Surface Water Pathway
page 8-25
-------
Section 9:
Soil Exposure Pathway
t
200 feet
i
School
Fence
Breach
in fence
• •
n
200 feet
Q)
U
C
Q>
U.
XYZ
Corporation
-n
(D
3
o
(D
Bald Eagle
nesting area
Contaminated
Soil
I
-------
• SOIL EXPOSURE PATHWAY
Soil Exposure Pathway
Pathway score based on:
• Likelihood that residential, school, or workplace properties are
contaminated
• Likelihood that residents, students, or workers are exposed to site
contaminants
SI Guidance, section 4.7
OH»1
Soil Exposure Pathway:
HRS Considerations
Waste
Characteristics
SI Guidance, section 4.7
Likelihood of
Exposure
—
—
Human
Population
Threat
Worker
Threat
Sensitive
Environment
Threat
OH«2
So/7 Exposure Pathway
page 9-2
4/94
-------
SOIL EXPOSURE PATHWAY
Review PA Information
Determine whether a major pathway of concern is based on:
• Resident individuals (onsite residents, students)
• Workers
• Terrestrial sensitive environments
S/ Guidance, section 4.7 OH • 3
Review PA Information
Identify number and location of primary targets
Identify areas of suspected surficial contamination
Identify property boundaries
Has contamination already been demonstrated?
SI Guidance, section 4.7 OH • 4
4/94 So/7 Exposure Pathway
page 9-3
-------
• SOIL EXPOSURE PATHWAY
Soil Exposure Pathway Investigation
Complete SI data summary soil
section using available information
See SI Guidance, Appendix B, "SI Data Summary"
SI Guidance, section 4.7
OH»5
Most Important Analytical Data
Establishing observed contamination
Establishing level of contamination
SI Guidance, section 4.7
OH'6
So/7 Exposure Pathway
page 9-4
4/94
-------
SOIL EXPOSURE PATHWAY
Establishing Observed Contamination
Must use analytical evidence
Should demonstrate:
- Attribution
- Contamination present at significant levels
Need to collect two soil samples
- Background
- Area of contamination
If observed contamination cannot be established, do not evaluate
soil pathway
SI Guidance, section 4.7 OH
Sampling Criteria for Observed Contamination
• Must meet criteria for observed contamination (similar to
observed release for migration pathways), and samples must be
collected within 2 feet of surface
• Cannot collect sample beneath impenetrable cover
• Can infer contamination within a source, not between sources
• For all sources except soil, one observed contamination sample
demonstrates an area of surficial contamination for entire source
SI Guidance, section 4.7 OH • 8
4/94 Soil Exposure Pathway
page 9-5
-------
SOIL EXPOSURE PATHWAY
Sample for Observed Contamination (Sources)
Landfill
Former drum
Storage area
Area of suspected
contamination
SI Guidance, section 4.7
OH »9
Sampling Considerations
Sample to identify targets exposed to surficial contamination
• Resident individuals most heavily weighted
• Workers
• Terrestrial sensitive environment
• Resources
Sample in direction of targets only
• Do not sample to delineate total extent of surficial contamination
SI Guidance, section 4.7
OH- 10
So// Exposure Pathway
page 9-6
4/94
-------
SOIL EXPOSURE PATHWAY
Target Considerations
Resident individuals and workers
• Demonstrate contamination on property and within 200 feet of
residence, school, or workplace
Sensitive environments and resources
• Demonstrate contamination within boundary
OH-11
Sample to Define Resident Individuals
Areas of vegetation/
suspected soil contamination
OH. 12
4/94
So/7 Exposure Pathway
page 9-7
-------
SOIL EXPOSURE PATHWAY
Estimating Areas of Observed Contamination
• Sample to identify resident population threat targets
• Three soil samples (minimum) needed
• Two soil samples for critical targets that lie along a line
• One nonsoil source sample can designate an entire source as
area of observed contamination
SI Guidance, section 4.7
OH'13
Area of Inferred Contamination
Established between two points of observed contamination
Source
0' 100' 200'
SI Guidance, section 4.7
(aerial view)
House
— Property boundary
fr Soil sample
OH«14
Soil Exposure Pathway
page 9-8
4/94
-------
SOIL EXPOSURE PATHWAY
Inferring Contamination
OH»15
Evaluating Level of Contamination
Analytical results are compared with benchmarks
Populations associated with areas of inferred contamination can
only be evaluated as Level II resident threat targets
SI Guidance, section 4.7
OH«16
4/94
Soil Exposure Pathway
page 9-9
-------
• SOIL EXPOSURE PATHWAY •
Levels of Contamination
Soil samples
(all exceeding benchmark)
OH«17
Additional Sampling Considerations
• So/7 samples collected for comparison should be similar
• Soil type
• Same soil horizon
• Mineralogy
• Composition
• For background, observed contamination, and metals analysis
samples, need similar:
• Texture
• Color
• Grain size
• ForHRS purposes, grab samples are preferred
SI Guidance, section 4.7
OH 08
So;7 Exposure Pathway
page 9-10
4/94
-------
SOIL EXPOSURE PATHWAY
Establishing Background
Background samples should:
• Represent uncontaminated conditions
• Be collected from undisturbed areas
• Not be collected from drainage channels
• Be collected within 1-3 days of release sample (can use results
from nearby sites for focused SI)
SI Guidance, section 4.7 OH • 19
Focused SI Strategy
• Review PA hypotheses concerning suspected observed surficial
contamination and exposed targets
• Establish areas of observed contamination
• Target resident individual exposures
• Can use inferred contamination areas
• Less rigorous data quality
SI Guidance, section 4.7.1 OH • 20
4/94 Soil Exposure Pathway
page 9-11
-------
SOIL EXPOSURE PATHWAY
Expanded and Single SI Strategy
Focus on documentation of target exposure
Sample locations not sampled during earlier investigations
Establish and document background
Rigorous quality control
SI Guidance, section 4.7.1
OH-21
Soil Sampling Strategy
SI Guidance, Table 4-14, Soil Sampling Strategies,
compares criteria and activities associated with focused,
expanded, and single Sis
SI Guidance, section 4.7.1
OH« 22
Soil Exposure Pathway
page 9-12
4/94
-------
TABLE 4-14: SOIL SAMPLING STRATEGIES
CRITERIA
Primary
objectives
Data quality
Average
number of
samples
Types of
activities
Background
samples
Attribution
samples
QA/QC
samples
FOCUSED SI
To test hypotheses regarding suspected
observed surficial contamination and
targets exposed to actual contamination
Less rigorous (DUC-II) to rigorous
(DUC-I); depends on objectives
0 to 10 depending on site hypotheses and
resident population to investigate
Sample source and target areas indicating
possible surficial contamination, exposed
or within 2 feet of surface
Limited
May not be necessary for some organics
May rely on published data
Limited
As approved by Regional guidelines
EXPANDED SI AND SINGLE SI
To document target exposure to hazardous
substances related to site sources
Rigorous (DUC-I); depends on objectives
0 to 20 based on documentation requirements
and number of sources and targets
Resample locations if previous data did not
demonstrate areas of observed contamination or
targets exposed to actual contamination
Sample other resident target properties not yet
sampled
Collect multiple samples from properties where
hazardous substance concentrations are likely to
be near benchmarks
As many as necessary; research natural soil
concentrations as well as development history in
the area to select critical background sample
locations; use aerial photographs.
Those necessary to attribute substances to the
site being evaluated
Minimum 1 split and 1 blank or per Regional
guidelines
Guidance for Performing Site Inspections Under CERCLA, USEPA, 1992
Soil Exposure Pathway
page 9-13
-------
SOIL EXPOSURE PATHWAY •
CASE STUDY
EXAMPLE OF SOIL SAMPLING STRATEGY: FOCUSED SI
The Carveth Landing site is a dump near a residential neighborhood and elementary school
(see Carveth Landing site sketch). The PA reported that dumping occurred for an unknown
period of time and allegedly included paints, organic and inorganic substances, and construc-
tion debris. The area is devoid of vegetation. Sources at the site include several piles of 5-
gallon containers and two poorly defined areas of stained soil. Pigeon River, which flows at
1,600 cubic feet per second and is located 400 feet east of the site, has flooded twice in the
past 7 years. Commercial and recreational oyster beds are downstream of two PPEs to sur-
face water. The PA concluded that flooding may have carried hazardous substances into the
surface water and onto adjacent school and residential properties. Hazardous substances
associated with the site are not known, but could involve metals typically found in paints.
Carveth Landing Site Sketch
XS-3
XS-4
XS-5
Key
• Source simple
.A. SoLJ sample
LJ Sediment simple
>^ Tuhcry
^ XS = Expended SI soil sample
. XS-ll
SS-10
X SS-9
SCHOOL
Soil Exposure Pathway
page 9-14
XS-10
4/94
-------
SOIL EXPOSURE PATHWAY
SOIL AND SURFACE WATER SAMPLING STRATEGY FOR EXAMPLE SITE
FOCUSED SI
Samples
Surface water locations
(SED-3, SED-4)
Residential soil samples
Background soil
(SS-7, SS-8)
Background surface
water (SED-1, SED-2)
Sources
(SS-1 through SS-6)
Quality control
(Q-1 through Q-3)
Approach
Sample sediments to
demonstrate a release,
determine if contamination is
present and level of
contamination
Sample to determine if nearby
residential properties (SS-11,
SS-1 2, SS-1 3) and the school
yard (SS-9, SS-10) are exposed
to surficial contamination
Limited
Collect sediment samples
upstream of PPEs, ensure
samples are beyond tidal
influence of hazardous
substance migration
Identify hazardous substance
present at the site, sample to
test hypothesis of surficial
contamination
Monitor sample collection and
decontamination procedures;
two nnsates and one trip blank
Rationale
Investigate release to surface
water and determine rf fishery is
exposed to actual contamination
Investigate population exposure to
hazardous substances
Sample to determine relative levels
of hazardous substances under
ambient conditions and to better
define effects of flooding at site
Sample to determine relative levels
of hazardous substances under
ambient conditions
Do not sample to increase
hazardous waste quantity because
amounts are not close to HWQ
factor value breakpoints
Nonsampling
Data Collection
Document use of river for fishing,
estimate annual commercial food
chain production for oysters
Determine number of people per
residence and number of
students attending school
If available, obtain historical
aerial photographs and FEMA
maps, research natural
background levels of metals
Research other potential sources
of hazardous substances
Estimate physical dimensions of
stained soil; count paint pails and
look for drum labels
4/94
Soil Exposure Pathway
page 9-15
-------
SOIL EXPOSURE PATHWAY
CASE STUDY
EXAMPLE OF SOIL SAMPLING STRATEGY: EXPANDED SI
An expanded SI was performed at the Carveth Landing site using the following sampling
strategy.
SOIL SAMPLING STRATEGY FOR EXAMPLE SITE
EXPANDED SI
Samples
Approach
Rationale
Nonsampling
Data Collection
Resident samples
(XS-7, XS-8.XS-9, XS-11
through XS-17)
Sample to document resident
targets and levels of actual
contamination
To establish observed
contamination on residential
and school properties, target
samples must be 3 or more
times the ambient
background levels
Determine number of
residents, property
boundaries, and number
of students
Background
(XS-3 through XS-6, XS-10)
Sample areas less influenced
by site; document
contamination attributable to
site
Show that target
contamination is attributable
to the site, rather than other
potential sources of lead;
ensure sufficient background
samples for HRS
documentation
Quality control
(Q-1 through Q-6)
Monitor sample collection and
decontamination procedures;
transport and handling
procedures; two equipment
rinsates, two duplicates, one
field blank, one replicate
Ensure sufficient QA/QC
samples for HRS
documentation
Soi7 Exposure Pathway
page 9-16
4/94
-------
Section 10:
Air Pathway
Potential sources
of a release to air
Fire
Burn operation (odors
gases, participates)
Contaminants may
settle on buildings or
settle onto soils
Mine tailings
pile
Sensitive Environment
(e.g., habitat, park, or
recreation area)
Dry and dusty
conditions may cause
particulates to be
blown offsite
Waste water
lagoon
May release
vapors/gases that are
detected by nearby
residents/workers
Contaminated
soils
-------
AIR PATHWAY
Air Pathway Evaluation
Pathway score based on:
• Likelihood that airborne contaminants are migrating from site
• Likelihood of detecting contaminants at human and sensitive
environment targets
SI Guidance, section 4.8 OH • 1
Review PA Information
• Was air pathway significant to preliminary score?
• Identify sources (source areas)
• Identify primary targets and primary target populations
• Identify most dispersible substances
SI Guidance, section 4.8 OH • 2
Air Pathway 4/94
page 10-2
-------
AIR PATHWAY
Air Pathway Investigation
Complete the SI data summary air section using available
information.
This information may help determine whether to evaluate the
pathway.
See SI Guidance, Appendix B,
SI Data Summary, pages B-19 through B-21
SI Guidance, appendix B
OH* 3
When Is Air Sampling Appropriate?
Is air the only significant pathway?
• Typically expanded or single SI activity
Evaluating air pathway during focused SI
• Generally sample air only if immediate human health threat exists
• Monitor to better assess release potential
S/ Guidance, section 4.8
OH* 4
4/94
Air Pathway
page 10-3
-------
• AIR PATHWAY •
Air Pathway: MRS Considerations
Waste
Characteristics
Likelihood of
Exposure
Targets
Likelihood
of Detection
SI Guidance, section 4.8
OH»5
Air Pathway: Likelihood of Release
Depends on nature of source
• Chemical properties
• Thickness of cover
Affected by atmosphere
• Wind direction
• Temperature
SI Guidance, section 4.8
OH«6
Air Pathway
page 10-4
4/94
-------
AIR PATHWAY
Observed Release by Direct Observation
Participate emission seen entering atmosphere directly
Use photographs to document emissions
Need information supporting that emission material contains
hazardous substance
- Existing analytical data
- Manifests
- Soil or source samples
Sample source to document direct observation
SI Guidance, section 4.8
OH »7
Observed Release by Direct Observation
Mine tailings pile
OBQ
£«^R»<,
Residential area
OH-8
4/94
Air Pathway
page 10-5
-------
AIR PATHWAY
Air Pathway: Observed Release
Background and release samples should be similar
• Collection and analysis
• Same time frame
Background sample locations should be outside influence of site
to ensure attribution
OH»9
Air Pathway: Targets
• Do not need to sample air targets directly
• Observed release can demonstrate actual contamination of
targets within the distance category
OH«10
Air Pathway 4/94
page 10-6
-------
AIR PATHWAY
Air Targets
451 people
OH-11
Air Sampling Considerations
Sample targets within a 0.25-mile target distance limit
Conduct before or after other sampling activities (not during)
May require more than one sampling event
Should not be conducted near facilities discharging into air
Monitoring stations should be located near sources
SI Guidance, section 4.8.3
OH-12
4/94
Air Pathway
page 10-7
-------
AIR PATHWAY
Focused SI Strategy
Air sampling for CLP analysis should not be conducted during
focused SI
Ambient air screening may be appropriate
• Health and safety
• Release detection
SI Guidance, section 4.8.1 OH • 13
Expanded and Single SI Strategy
Single SI option is selected if air is only pathway of concern
Conduct sampling:
- If air pathway is of concern
- If public health is threatened
Minimum 12-hour sampling time to reduce variability
Determine predominant wind direction
Rigorous quality control
S/ Guidance, section 4.8.2 OH • 14
Air Pathway 4/94
page 10-8
-------
AIR PATHWAY
Expanded and Single Si Strategy:
Establishing Background
Necessary at this stage
Upwind or cross-wind samples acceptable
Multiple samples preferred
SI Guidance, section 4.8.2
OH'15
Establishing Background
Wind direction
OH-16
4/94
Air Pathway
page 10-9
-------
AIR PATHWAY
CASE STUDY
EXAMPLE OF AIR SAMPLING STRATEGY
Vega Ore is a remote site near Smalltown where ore is processed for the extraction of lead,
zinc, and silver (see Vega Ore site sketch). The site has been operating since 1930, and
current activities are very limited. Waste sources include three tailings piles, a drum storage
area for acids, and an aboveground tank.
The nearest residence is 1,000 feet from a tailings pile. Smalltown relies on drinking water
from an intake 3 miles away. A national park is located 900 feet from the site. A total of six
ranches within 0.25 miles of the site rely on bottled water and cisterns for drinking water.
Based on PA research, the significant threats posed by Vega Ore involve suspected migration
of hazardous substances through air that may impact people and sensitive environments. No
ground water targets exist, and the nearest surface water body is more than 2 miles from the
site.
Vega Ore Site Sketch
J'rrYilllnj wlod dlrcclloc
during sir sampling
Nnuontl Park
Air Pathway
page 10-10
4/94
-------
AIR PATHWAY
AIR SAMPLING STRATEGY FOR EXAMPLE SITE
Samples
Approach
Rationale
Nonsampling
Data Collection
Release and air targets
(A-4 through A-6)
Sample to test if contamination is
present and determine level of actual
contamination
Monitor wind speed, direction, and
other atmospheric conditions
Determining whether the 0.25-mile
target distance category is exposed
to actual air contamination is vital to
investigating the public health and
the screening and listing decisions
Determine population of Smalltown
lying within the 0.25-mile target
distance category from site sources
Determine number of workers at Vega
Ore
Determine boundaries of national
park
Support for release and
air targets (A-7, A-8)
Sample to test if other sources of air
contamination exist in the site
vicinity, or if wind direction changes
during the sampling event, establish
cross-wind sample stations
Support determining whether the
0.25-mile target distance category is
exposed to actual contamination
Background
(A-1 through A-3)
Sample to collect background levels
of ambient air concentrations
Sample to determine background soil
levels
Sample to determine relative levels of
particulate hazardous substances in
ambient conditions
Ensure sufficient background
samples for listing purposes
Identify other sources of particulate
emissions in area
Collect descriptive information for all
background sample locations
Sources
(SS-1 through SS-5)
Identify hazardous substances
present at the site through surficial
soil samples and tailing samples
Do not sample to increase hazardous
waste quantity (amounts are not
close to HWQ factor value
breakpoints)
Obtain physical dimensions of tanks,
drums, and tailings piles, and
estimate area of contaminated soil;
verify number of drums and look for
drum labels
Quality control
(Q-1 through Q-4)
(not shown)
Monitor sample collection and
decontamination procedures; 2 trip
blanks and 2 duplicates
Ensure sufficient QA/QC samples for
listing purposes
4/94
Air Pathway
page 10-11
-------
Section 11:
Radiation
-------
RADIATION
Definitions
1. Radioactive Substance—Solid, liquid, or gas containing atoms
of a single radionuclide or multiple radionuclides.
2. Radionuclide/radioisotope—Isotope of an element exhibiting
radioactivity. For HRS purposes, "radionuclide" and
"radioisotope" are used synonymously.
3. Radioactivity—Property of those isotopes of elements that
exhibit radioactive decay and emit radiation.
4. Radiation—Particles (alpha, beta, neutrons) or photons (X- and
gamma-rays) emitted by radionuclides.
HRS Final Rule, section 1.1, page 51586
OH«1
Radioactive Substances Are:
Hazardous substances under CERCLA and should be considered
in HRS scoring
Treated as additional wastes with special properties under the
HRS
Special analytical data requirements apply
HRS Final Rule, section 7.0, page 51663
OH«2
Radiation
page 11-2
4/94
-------
RADIATION
Three Groups of Radionuclides
1. Naturally occuring or ubiquitous in the environment
2. Man-made radionuclides not ubiquitous in the environment
(elements beyond atomic number 92: uranium)
3. Gamma radiation
HRS Final Rule, section 7.1.1, page 51663;
SI Guidance, section 4.9.4, page 89
OH«3
Radiation Measurement
Radiation is measured in activity units (curies)
Curie (Ci): Measure used to quantify radioactivity. One curie equals
37 billion nuclear transformations per second and one
picocurie (pCi) equals 10'12 Ci.
Media
Soil
Ground/surface
water
Air
Unit Measurement
pCi/kg
pCi/L
pCi/m3
HRS Final Rule, section 7.1.1, page 51663
OH«4
4/94
Radiation
page 11-3
-------
RADIATION
CERCLA Exclusions
Section 101(22) of CERCLA excludes a limited category of
radioactive materials, making them ineligible for CERCLA response
or the NPL
1. Excludes releases of source uranium or thorium..., by-product or
material made radioactive by exposure to radiation from the use
or production of special nuclear material (plutontum, 233U,
enriched 233U, 235U) or any material that the NRC determines to
be special nuclear material subject to section 170 of the AEC
Act.
2. Any release of source, by-products, or special nuclear material
from any processing site specifically designated under the
Uranium Mill Tailings Radiation Control Act of 1978.
HRS Guidance, page 19 OH • 5
Potential Radioactive Waste Sites
Pose special hazards for field investigators (gamma radiation)
Less than 2 percent of CERCLIS sites involve radioactive
materials
Detailed investigations and information are handled by EPA's
Office of Radiation Programs (ORP)
PA Guidance, section 2.7, page 34 OH • 6
Radiation 4/94
page 11-4
-------
RADIATION
Facilities That Contain Radioactive Materials
DOD/DOE research labs, contractors, and suppliers
Public/private energy production and research labs
Ore mining, milling, and processing industries
Deep well injection sites
Aircraft, submarine, and shipbuilding companies
Businesses that manufacture, use, store, or dispose of
radiopharmaceuticals
Industrial radiography (X-rays)
PA Guidance, section 2.7, page 34
OH«7
Evidence of Radioactive Materials
• Presence of drums and containers with radiation symbols
• Permits, manifests, and records of radioactive materials
• Above-background readings on a radiation meter
(EPA action guideline: readings > 1 milliroentgen/hour for
gamma radiation; evacuate area!)
PA Guidance, section 2.7, page 34
OH* 8
10/94
Radiation
page 11-5
-------
RADIATION
Radiation Sampling* Goals
• Identify radionuclides and activity concentrations in situ, both
onsite and offsite
• Locate elevated sources of radioactivity and external radiation
exposure rates
• Estimate areal extent of contamination and major migration
pathways
• Confirm radiation releases
• Determine site-specific background radioactivity and exposure
rates
• Document Level I and Level II contamination
• Support QA/QC requirements (samples require CLP SAS)
* After consultation with a health physicist
SI Guidance, section 4.9.1, pages 86-88 OH • 9
Factors That Are Evaluated Differently under MRS
in All Four Pathways
• Observed release
• Toxicity
• Persistence
• HWQ
Refer to MRS Final Rule, section 7, for specific information
MRS Final Rule, table 7-1, page 51663 OH • 10
Radiation 10/94
page 11-6
-------
RADIATION
Observed Release
Direct observation for each migration pathway except soil
Measured concentration in activity units in all four pathways
SI Guidance, section 4.9.4, pages 89-90 OH • 11
Observed Release
1. Observed release for naturally occurring radionuclides
• Concentrations that exceed upper limit of regional background for
a specific nuclide and media type
• Must be attributable to site
2. Observed release for man-made radionuclide without
ubiquitous background concentrations in the environment
• Measure concentrations that equal or exceed the SQL* for that
nuclide in a specific media
• Must be attributable to site
* If CLP-generated data, use CRQL in place of SQL;
if non-CLP-generated data, use IDL in place of SQL
SI Guidance, section 4.9.4, pages 89-90 OH • 12
4/94 Radiation
page 11-7
-------
RADIATION •
Observed Release for Soil Exposure Pathway
Must be present at surface or covered by 2 feet or less of cover
material
Exceeds the upper-limit value of the range of regional background
concentration values for that specific radionuclide in that type of
sample
Must be attributable to the site
Excludes gamma radiation
S/ Guidance, section 4.9.4, page 89;
MRS Final Rule, section 7.1.1, page 51664 OH • 13
4
For Observed Release with Gamma Radiation
Concentration equals or exceeds 2 times the site-specific
background gamma radiation exposure rate
Must be attributable to the site
Does not have to be within 2 feet of the surface
HRS Final Rule, section 7.1.1, page 51664 OH • 14
RacBafl'on 10/94
page 11-8
-------
RADIATION •
Hazardous Waste Quantity (HWQ)
Use activitiy units (curies) to evaluate sources
Need source area and depth (volume in cubic yards or gallons)
Need net activity concentration of each nuclide (after subtracting
background concentration)
Evaluate radionuclide constituent quantity (tier A) or wastestream
quantity (tier B)
SI Guidance, section 4.9.2, pages 88-89 OH • 15
~
HWQ
Tier A: Based on activity content. Convert from curies to equivalent
pounds of nonradioactive hazardous substances by
multiplying the activity estimate or area of observed
contamination by 1,000. Assign the product as a constituent
quantity value.
TierB: Based on activity content. Estimate total volume (cubic
yards or gallons); divide cubic yards by 0.55 and gallons by
110 to obtain equivalent pounds of noradioactive hazardous
substances. Assign resulting value as radionuclide quantity
value.
Select the higher value for HWQ
HRS Final Rule, section 7.2.5.7, pages 51665-51666 OH • 16
4/94 Radiation
page 11-9
-------
Section 12:
Site Inspection Evaluation
and Reporting
WC x LR x T
82,500
Site Score =
o 2 + Q 2 + c 2 + Q 2
°gw °w ^ °s °a
Narrative Report
SI Scoresheets
-------
EVALUATION AND REPORTING
SI Evaluation: Overview
Review and Validate Analytical Data
Identify Analytical Data for Scoring
>
<
Review Nonsampling Information
\
Score Site
SI Guidance, chapter 5
OH»1
SI Evaluation: Data Review
Compile all data
- Existing
- New SI data
Include sampling and nonsampling information
Evaluate existing analytical data using procedures outlined in
chapter 3 of the SI guidance
Evaluate new analytical data against performance criteria in SI
work plan
SI Guidance, section 5.1
OH'2
Evaluation and Reporting
page 12-2
4/94
-------
EVALUATION AND REPORTING
SI Evaluation: Data Review
Review should be conducted by the site investigator and project
chemist
SI Guidance, table 5-1, provides data review considerations
SI Guidance, section 5.1
OH«3
Notes:
4/94
Evaluation and Reporting
page 12-3
-------
TABLE 5-1: DATA REVIEW CONSIDERATIONS
D Review data reports for transcription and typographical errors (e.g., 0.5 v. .05; ppb v. ppm)
D Determine if sampling protocols were appropriate
D Compare data against field and trip blanks to detect cross-contamination
D Compare field replicates samples
D Review laboratory QC (e.g., laboratory blanks, method standards, spike recover}', duplicates)
D Summarize detection limits for non-detectable results
D Review detection limits for positive but non-quantifiable data
D Review sampling program design for assessing media variability
D Review background concentrations to help identify site-specific contamination
D Delete unusable data, attach qualifiers to usable data, and explain limitations of qualified data
Guidance for Performing Site Inspections Under CERCLA, USEPA. 1992
Evaluation and Reporting
page 12-4
-------
EVALUATION AND REPORTING
SI Evaluation: Data Review
Scope of data review reflects use requirements
Problems with data packages should be resolved with laboratory
SI Guidance, section 5.1
OH'4
SI Evaluation: Identify Data for Scoring
MRS aspects that depend on analytical data
• Observed releases
• Observed contamination (soil pathway)
• Targets exposed to actual contamination
• Levels of target contamination
• Hazardous waste quantity
Can use CLP and non-CLP data deemed suitable for SI objectives
SI Guidance, section 5.2
OH«5
4/94
Evaluation and Reporting
page 12-5
-------
EVALUATION AND REPORTING
Si Evaluation: Identify Data for Scoring
Criteria for establishing acceptable minimum data quality:
• Intended use of data
• Specific site hypothesis being tested
• Particular HRS factor being examined
• Levels of target contamination
• Hazardous waste quantity
SI Guidance, section 5.2 OH • 6
SI Evaluation: Identify Data for Scoring
Determine usability of qualified data
Qualifiers are added to data during laboratory analysis or data
validation
SI Guidance, section 5.2 OH • 7
Evaluation and Reporting 4/94
page 12-6
-------
EVALUATION AND REPORTING
Analytical Data Review Process
Quality assured
legally defensible
OH«8
SI Evaluation: Identify Data for Scoring
Qualified Analytical Data
• Data with attached letter code or "flag" indicates QA/QC problems
or questions concerning chemical identity or concentration
• Flag assigned by analyzing laboratory or person validating data
OH'9
4/94
Evaluation and Reporting
page 12-7
-------
EVALUATION AND REPORTING
SI Evaluation: Identify Data for Scoring
Example of Qualifed Data
Samples
Trichloroethylene
Tetrachloroethylene
Phenol
1
40J
25U
330U
2
160
150J
390
3
120
100R
19.000J
4
30J
45
490
Concentrations (ppb)
OH-10
SI Evaluation: Identify Data for Scoring
Common Qualifiers in CLP Data
• J-flag: Concentrations are estimated; identification of hazardous
substances certain
• U-flag: Compound analyzed for but not detected
• R-flag: QC indicates data are unusable
• Specific meaning of a qualifier may vary
OH-11
Evaluation and Reporting
page 12-8
4/94
-------
EVALUATION AND REPORTING
SI Evaluation: Nonsampling Information
• Review SI data summary sheets
• Update with new information if needed
- Changes in site conditions (e.g., a removal)
- Changes in targets
• Assess quality of nonsampling information
SI Guidance, section 5.3
OH-12
SI Evaluation: Site Score
General Strategy
• Characterize sources
• Focus on significant pathways
SI Guidance, section 5.4
OH»13
4/94
Evaluation and Reporting
page 12-9
-------
EVALUATION AND REPORTING
Si Evaluation: Site Score
SI worksheet
PREscore software program
MRS scoresheets
Other evaluation tools developed by EPA regional or state offices
See SI Guidance, Appendix C, Site Inspection Worksheets
SI Guidance, section 5.4
14
SI Reporting Requirements
Narrative
Report
Score
Sheets
OH-15
Evaluation and Reporting
page 12-10
4/94
-------
EVALUATION AND REPORTING
SI Reporting: Narrative Report
Report should:
• Describe history and nature of waste handling at site
• Describe known hazardous substances
• Describe pathways of concern
• Identify and describe targets
• Present SI analytical results
SI Guidance, section 6.1
OH»16
SI Reporting: Narrative Report
Can be letter report or stand-alone document
Factual statements should be supported by references
References not generally available should be attached
Structure and format should follow format in Exhibit 6-1, SI
Narrative Report Format
SI Guidance, section 6.1
OH-17
4/94
Evaluation and Reporting
page 12-11
-------
EXHIBIT 6-1: SI NARRATIVE REPORT FORMAT
! INTRODUCTION
State that an SI was performed, the name of the agency performing it, and the authority under which it
was conducted (e.g., CERCLA as amended b> SARA, and EPA contract or cooperative agreement;.
State the site name, CERCLIS identification number, and location (street address, city, county, State,
latitude/longitude coordinates). If necessary, provide brief directions to the site.
State the purpose, scope, and objectives of the SI.
SITE DESCRIPTION AND REGULATORY HISTORY
Identify the type of site (e.g., plating facility, chemical plant, municipal landfill), whether it is active or
inactive, and years of operation. Describe its physical setting (e.g., topography, local land uses).
Include the appropriate portion of a USGS 7.5-minute topographic map locating the site and showing a
1-mile radius. On the map, identify the surface water drainage route; nearest well, drinking water
intake, and residence; and wetlands and other sensitive environments. Include a drafted sketch showing
site layout, source areas, and features on and around the site.
Briefly summarize dates and scope of previous investigations.
• Describe prior land use and past regulatory activities including the site's RCRA status, permits, permit
violations, and inspections by local, State, or Federal authorities. Discuss any citizen complaints.
OPERATIONAL HISTORY AND WASTE CHARACTERISTICS
• Provide an operational history of the site. Identify current and former owners and operators, and
describe site activities. Identify and describe wastes generated, waste disposal practices, waste source
areas, waste source containment, and waste quantities. Indicate source areas on the site sketch.
Discuss any previous sampling at the site; provide dates of sampling events and sample types.
Summarize analytical results in a table. Include a site map of all previous sample locations.
Discuss SI source sampling results. List in a table each waste source sample and summarize analytical
results. Include a site map of all waste source and pathway sample locations.
• Identify hazardous substances associated with sources.
• Describe accessibility to source areas.
GROUND WATER
• Describe the local geologic and hydrogeologic setting (e.g., stratigraphy, formations, aquifers, karst
features, confining layers, depth and permeability to each aquifer).
4
Guidance for Performing Site Inspections Under CERCLA, USEPA. 1992
Evaluation and Reporting
page 12-12
-------
EXHIBIT 6-1: SI NARRATIVE REPORT FORMAT (continued)
GROUND WATER (continued)
• Discuss ground water use within a 4-mile radius of the sources. Idenufy the nearest private and
municipal drinking water wells and state the distance from sources. Quantify drinking water
populations served by wells within 4 miles, differentiating between private and municipal wells and
specifying aquifers. Identify any municipal wells that are pan of a blended system; state number of
wells, locauons, pumping rates, and aquifer from which water is drawn. Idenufy wells in karst aquifers.
• Identify designated wellhead protection areas (WHPA) and specify location.
• Discuss any previous ground water sampling results; provide dates of sampling events and the depths
and names of sampled aquifers.
• List in a table each well or spring sampled during the SI, provide the depth from which it draws
drinking water and the screened interval, quantify the population associated with it, and identify its
distance from site sources. Discuss SI ground water sampling results. List in a table each sample and
summarize analytical results. Include a site map of sample locauons. Identify drinking water wells
exposed to hazardous substances and quantify the drinking water populations served by each.
SURFACE WATER
• Describe the local hydrologic setting, including site location with respect to floodplains, and the
overland and in-water segments of the surface water migration path. State the distance from the site to
the probable point of entry (PPE) into surface water. Identify the water bodies within the in-water
segment, and state the length of reach and flow or depth characteristics of each; describe tidal influence.
Include a drafted sketch of the surface water migration path. Describe upgradient drainage areas, onsite
drainage (including storm drains, ditches, culverts, etc.), facility discharges into surface water, permits,
and historical information, including floods, fish kills, fishery closures, and other events.
• Indicate whether surface water within the target distance limit supplies drinking water. Identify the
location and state the distance from the PPE to each drinking water intake. Quantify the drinking water
population served by surface water and identify blended systems.
• Indicate whether surface water within the target distance limit contains fisheries. Identify and state the
distance from the PPE to each fishery; briefly characterize each fishery.
• Indicate whether sensitive environments are present within or adjacent to the in-water segment. Identify
and state the distance from the PPE to each sensitive environment Describe each sensitive environment
and state the frontage length of wetlands on surface water.
• Discuss any previous surface water sampling results, dates, locations, and types of samples.
• Discuss SI surface water sampling results. List in a table each sample and summarize analytical results.
Identify surface water intakes exposed to hazardous substances and quantify the drinking water
populations served by each. Identify fisheries exposed to hazardous substances and quantify the food
chain populauon associated with each. Identify sensitive environments and wetlands exposed to
hazardous substances; quantify the frontage of exposed wetlands.
Guidance for Performing Site Inspections Under CERCLA, USEPA, 1992
Evaluation and Reporting
page 12-13
-------
EXHIBIT 6-1: SI NARRATIVE REPORT FORMAT (continued)
SOIL EXPOSURE
State the number of workers on properties with site-related contamination.
State the number of people who live on properties with site-related contamination and within 200 feet
of an area of observed contamination. State the hazardous substance concentration and compare to
health based benchmarks.
• Identify schools and day care facilities within 200 feet from an area of observed contamination on the
school property and state the number of attendees.
Identify terrestrial sensitive environments and resources in an area of observed contamination.
State the number of people who live within 1 mile travel distance of the site.
Discuss any previous sampling results of sources of surficial materials, including dates and locations.
• Discuss SI surficial source samples. List each sample in a table and summarize analytical results.
AIR
• Identify the location of, and state the distance to, the nearest individual. State the population within 4
miles of the site, including students and workers. Identify sensitive environments on sources and
within 4 miles.
• Discuss any previous air sampling results, including dates, locations, sampling procedures, and
meteorological conditions.
• Discuss SI air sampling procedures and results. Identify sample locations on a map. List in a table
each sample and summarize analytical results.
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION
• Briefly summarize the major aspects of the site and its history that relate to the release or threatened
release of hazardous substances and the exposure of targets. Briefly summarize principal pathways and
targets of concern.
• Summarize sampling results, including substances detected in site sources and in environmental media.
PHOTODOCUMENTATION LOG
• As an attachment, provide photographs of the site taken during the SI depicting pertinent site features
such as waste source areas, containment conditions, stained soil, stressed vegetation, drainage routes,
and sample locations. Describe each photograph in captions or accompanying text. Key each photo to
its location on the site sketch.
Guidance for Performing Site Inspections Under CERCLA. USEPA, 1992
Evaluation and Reporting
page 12-14
-------
EXHIBIT 6-1: SI NARRATIVE REPORT OUTLINE (concluded)
APPENDICES
• Analytical results reports
• QA Report
Other attachments
REFERENCES
• List, in bibliographic citation format, all references cited in the SI report.
Attach copies of references cited in the SI report. Include complete copies of site-specific references
(e.g., USGS topographic maps, records of communication, drinking water population apportionment and
calculation worksheets, GEMS and other database printouts, waste handling records or shipping
manifests). Include only the title page and pertinent excerpts of publicly available references (e.g.,
geologic reports).
Guidance for Performing Site inspections Under CERCLA, USEPA, 1992
Evaluation and Reporting
page 12-15
-------
EVALUATION AND REPORTING
SI Reporting: Score and Documentation
During SI scoring, investigator should:
• Start at beginning of package and work through systematically
• Document all assumptions
• Develop references
Evaluate SI Results
• Use Table 6-1, Additional Evaluation of SI Results, to aid in
decisions
SI Guidance, section 6.2 OH • 18
SI Reporting: Reviews
SI reports and scoresheets undergo three separate reviews
• SI investigator conducts detailed review of SI report and
scoresheets for completeness and internal consistency
• Independent reviewer reviews analytical data and internal
consistency
• EPA regional officials and state personnel review reasonableness
and whether SI objectives were met
SI Guidance, section 6.3 OH • 19
Evaluation and Reporting 4/94
page 12-16
-------
EVALUATION AND REPORTING
Site Disposition Decision
Recommendation based on site score
• No further remedial action planned (NFRAP)
• Expanded SI (if focused SI conducted initially)
• MRS package preparation
EPA makes final decision
OH-20
Notes:
4/94
Evaluation and Reporting
page 12-17
-------
APPENDIX A
Fact Sheets
-------
PB93-963341
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of
Solid Waste and
Emergency Response
Directive 9345 1-16FS
EPA540-F-93-038
September 1993
Integrating Removal and
Remedial Site Assessment
Investigations
Office of Emergency and Remedial Response
Hazardous Site Evaluation Division (5204G)
Quick Reference Fact Sheet
Increased efficiency and shorter response times are the primary objectives of integrating removaJ and remediaJ site
assessment investigations under the Superfund Accelerated Cleanup Model (SACM). This is based on the
assumption that there is duplication of effort between the programs. A critical element of SACM is a continuous
and integrated approach to assessing sites. The concept of integrating removal and remedial site assessment
activities was introduced in Assessing Sites Under SACM—Interim Guidance (OSWER Publication 9203.1-051,
Volume 1, Number 4, December 1992). This fact sheet examines areas of duplication and key differences between
the two types of investigations, and describes some approaches for integrating assessments. The primary audience
for this information is the site assessment community which includes EPA On-Scene Coordinators (OSCs) and Site
Assessment Managers (SAMs), their counterparts in state or other federal agencies, and assessment contractors.
REMOVAL ASSESSMENTS AND
REMEDIAL SITE ASSESSMENTS
Figure 1 illustrates traditional assessment activities of
the removal and remedial programs prior to SACM.
Typically, when EPA is notified of a possible release
(under CERCLA Section 103), the removal program
determines whether there is a need for emergency
response by EPA. If a response is deemed
necessary, an OSC and/or a removal program
contractor will visit the site. If circumstances allow,
a file and telephone investigation should be initiated
prior to the site visit. The OSC may decide to take
samples during this initial visit or may postpone
sampling. EPA can initiate a removal action at any
point in the assessment process. If the OSC
determines that the site does not warrant a removal
action, he may refer the site to remedial site
assessment or the State for further evaluation, or
recommend no further federal response action.
The remedial site assessment process is similar to that
uf the removal program. Once a site has been
discovered and entered into the CERCLIS data base,
the SAM directs that a preliminary assessment (PA)
be performed at the site. The focus of PA data
collection is the set of Hazard Ranking System (MRS)
factors that can be obtained without sampling (e.g.,
population within 1/4 mile). The PA includes a file
and telephone investigation, as well as a site visit (the
PA reconnaissance, or "recon"). The PA recon
differs from the typical removal site visit because
samples are not collected and observations are often
made from the perimeter of the site (although some
Regions prefer on-site PA recons). From the PA
information, the SAM determines if a site inspection
(SI) is needed (i.e., whether the site could score
greater than the 28.5 needed to qualify for inclusion
on the National Priorities List (NPL)). The SI would
include sufficient sampling and other information to
allow the SAM to determine whether the score is
above 28.5. Even in cases where SI data are
adequate for this decision, it may be necessary to
conduct an expanded site inspection (ESI) to obtain
legally defensible documentation.
In general, ttte remedial site assessment process is
more structured than the removal assessment and
operates on a less intensive schedule. The remedial
site assessment process is focused on collecting data
for the HRS, while Removal assessments are based
on whether site conditions meet National Contingency
Plan (NCP) criteria for a removal action.
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INTEGRATING ASSESSMENT ACTIVITIES
there are differences in objectives between
and remedial assessments (i.e., NCP
removal criteria versus MRS), many of the same
factors are important to both programs: the potential
for human exposure through drinking water, soils,
and air pollution; and threats to sensitive
environments such as wetlands Similarities in the
activities required by both assessments—telephone
and file investigations, site visits or PA recons,
removal or SI sampling visits—suggest that the
activities can be consolidated. The challenge of
integrating assessments is to organize the activities to
enhance efficiency.
The basic goals of an integrated assessment program
under SACM are:
• Eliminate duplication of effort.
• Expedite the process. At a minimum, avoid
delays for time-critical removal actions or early
actions (see Early Action and Long-Term Action
Under SACM— Interim Guidance, OSWER
Publication 9203.1-051, Volume 1, Number 2,
December 1992, for details on early and long-
term actions).
• Minimize the number of site visits and other
steps in the process.
• Collect only the data needed to assess the site
appropriately.
The last point is critical to enhancing efficiency since
not all sites need to be assessed in depth for both
removal and remedial purposes. Integrating
assessments does not mean simply adding together the
elements of both assessments for all sites—efficient
decision points must be incorporated into the
integration process. The elements deemed necessary
for an integrated assessment depend on the particular
needs of a specific site and could involve similar,
additional, or slightly different activities from
traditional removal or remedial site assessments.
Figure 2 shows an approach for integrating the two
assessments and indicates ways to eliminate
nnecessary data collection. The most important
of the approach are the combined
notification/site discovery/screening function; the
single site visit for both programs; phased file
searches as appropriate, and integrated sample
planning and inspection This approach is detailed
below
Notification/Site Discovery/Screening
This "one door" notification process is a combination
of the current removal and remedial program
notification/discovery All remedial and removal
program discovered sites are screened for possible
emergency response The screening step would
determine whether there is time for a file search prior
to the initial site visit
(Classic) Emergency
If an emergency is identified, the response would be
implemented immediately. Emergency responses
require immediate sampling and removal actions and
allow little or no time for file or telephone
investigations prior to site activity.
File Search
The integrated file search includes all elements of the
current removal assessment file search. All file
search elements should be thoroughly documented to
serve the needs of both programs. Table 1 lists data
elements that are commonly a part of the file search.
The timing of the file search relative to the initial site
visit would be determined during the
notification/screening step.
Table 1: File Search and
Telephone Investigation
Elements Common to Both Programs
Regulatory program file search (e.g., RCRA,
water, state)
Site access information and property
ownership
Sire history, industrial processes
Substances used at site
Past releases (substances, locations, impacts)
Latitude and longitude
Topographic maps
Generally Removal Assessment Only
Potentially responsible party (PR?) search
Treatment technology review
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Initial Field Inveyiigation'PA Recon
The integrated site visit combines elements of both
removal assessment field visit and the remedial
recon Because removal and remedial program
site visit activities are similar, only a small increase
in effort would be required to meet the needs of both
programs Documentation needs of remedial site
assessment might require slight revision of removal
assessment procedures. For example, one might need
to document the distance to the nearest residence, in
addition to locating any contaminated residential
properties; for removal assessment needs, one might
need to assess the extent of contamination. The
assessment team will need to gain site access
approval for the site visit, in contrast with current
remedial PA recons performed from the perimeter in
some Regions. Table 2 lists elements that are
commonly part of the screening site visit.
Sample (Optional)
Integrated assessment sampling should follow the
current removal assessment approach, except that
HRS data needs should be considered in selecting
sample locations and laboratory analyses. The
s, however, is on removal assessment needs.
Review Data/Decide Further Action
Both removal and remedial programs would jointly
recommend a course of action, taking into
consideration any previous removal actions. A site
might undergo either a continuation of the removal
assessment, a remedial site assessment PA, or both
concurrently. Alternatively, a time-critical removal
action could be performed prior to deciding whether
the site should undergo a PA. Completing the PA
might be expedited in order to determine early in the
process whether remedial site assessment
requirements should be included in sampling plans.
When planning the site inspection, the Region may
also want to consider the effect of a removal action
on the HRS score (see The Revised Hazard Ranking
System: Evaluating Sites After Waste Removals,
OS WER Publication 9345. 1-03FS, October 1991).
Complete the PA
wv
^^^ran
Collect any information needed for the remedial site
sessment that was not pan of the earlier file search,
''and calculate the preliminary HRS score. For sites
assigned the SEA (site evaluation accomplished)
Table 2: Data Elements of the Site Visit
Elements Common to Bo(h Programs
Current human exposure identification
Sources identification, including locations,
sires, volumes
Information on substances present
Labels on drums and containers
Containment evaluation
Evidence of releases (e.g., stained soils)
Locations of wells on site and in immediate
vicinity
Runoff channels or pathways
Location of site or sources relative to surface
waters
Nearby wetlands identification
Nearby land uses (e.g., residential, schools,
parks, industrial)
Distance measurements or estimates for wells,
land uses (residences and schools), surface
waters, and wetlands
Public accessibility (e.g., site fence)
Blowing soils and air contaminants
Photodocumentation
Site sketch
Generally Removal Assessment Only
Petroleum releases (eligible)
Fire and explosion threat
Urgency of need for response
Response and treatment alternatives evaluation
Greater emphasis on specific pathways (e.g.,
direct contact)
Sampling
Generally Remedial Site Assessment Only
Perimeter survey (in some Regions)
Number of people within 200 feet
Some sensitive environments (e.g., endangered
species habitats)
Review all pathways
designation, also complete the PA report. Depending
on circumstances and the Region's approach, the PA
report might be included as part of a comprehensive
PA/SI report for sites scoring above 28.5. Table 3
lists typical data dements of this activity. If after the
PA it is evident that a site is likely to qualify for the
NPL, the site would be referred to the Regional
Decision Team (RDT). (See SACM Regional
Decision Teams—Interim Guidance, OS WER
Publication 9203.1-051, Volume 1, Number 5,
-------
Table 3: Data Elements Needed to Complete the PA
Population within 1 and 4 miles
All private and municipal wells within 4 miles
Depth to ground water (sometimes also collected for removal assessment)
Local or regional geology and climate
Distance to surface water measured (removal assessment only estimates distance)
Fisheries along a 15-mile surface water migration pathway
Sensitive environments along a 15-mile surface water migration pathway
Size of wetlands
Preliminary HRS score
December 1992, for details on the composition and
role of the RDT.)
Integrated Sampling Plan
This combines planning for the current screening
level SI (see section 2.1 of the Guidance for
Performing Site Inspections Under CERCLA, OSWER
Directive 9345.1-05, 1992) and any removal
sampling activities not already addressed by the initial
visit. When it appears that a remedial action will be
appropriate, and the site looks like a candidate for
NPL listing, a Remedial Project Manager (RPM)
should join the OSC and SAM in sample planning to
incorporate the objectives of any potential long-term
actions at the site. For applicable sites, this will
enhance the efficiency of progressing from
assessment to remediation, or starting a remedial
investigation prior to NPL proposal. Likewise,
sample planning should anticipate the needs of any
possible engineering evaluation/cost analysis (EE/CA)
that might be needed for subsequent non-time-critical
removal actions.
Si/Removal Assessment Sampling
This is a single sampling event designed to meet the
needs of both programs, where appropriate. Along
with the site visit and the file search, integrating
sampling would improve efficiency. Table 4
describes differences in emphasis between removal
and remedial site assessment sampling approaches
which need to be considered when developing a joint
sampling plan.
RDT Decisions
The RDT determines the course of action needed to
address a site, based on the outcome of the site
assessment PA, Si/removal assessment, and any time-
critical removal actions. This can include proposing
to list the sue on the NPL; conducting an early
action; starting the remedial investigation (RI) early;
or combining the RJ with the data collection needed
for listing.
ESI/RI
One option open to the RDT is to start the RI as soon
as it is apparent that the site will qualify for the NPL
(e.g., after a PA), even if further documentation is
needed for NPL rulemaking. The needs of NPL
listing and the RJ can be integrated into a single
sampling plan to give a headstart to a long-term
action.
Flexibility in Approach
Figure 2 addresses the most likely approaches for
screening site assessments; in fact, the approach will
vary according to the site and other factors. Time-
critical removal actions can occur at any time.
Enforcement, community relations, and remedial
planning considerations can be factored into data
collection as needed at any point along the process.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
Methods of recording or documenting information
vary between programs. Documentation is a major
consideration for both programs, but the HRS
requires a specific data set. In order for a common
data element to be used by both programs, HRS
documentation needs to be addressed.
Timing and duration of the activities also need to be
considered by Regional personnel who are setting up
integrated assessments. One critical timing
consideration involves the step "complete the PA."
At some sites this can proceed on a routine schedule,
but if a Region decides that sampling is needed to
-------
Table 4: Site Inspection/Removal Assessment Sampling
Remedial Site Assessment Emphasis
Attribution to the site
Background samples
Ground water samples
Grab samples from residential soils
Surface water sediment samples
HRS factors related to surface water sample locations (e.g., floodplams, watershed area)
Fewer samples on average (10-30) than removal assessment
Strategic sampling for HRS
Contract Laboratory Program (CLP) usage (no separate funding for analytical services)
Full screening orgazucs and inorganics analyses
Definitive analyses
Documentation, including targets and receptors (e.g., maps, census data)
Computing HRS scores
Standardized reports
Removal Assessment Emphasis
Sampling from containers
Physical characteristics of wastes
Treatability and other engineering concerns
On-site contaminated soils
Composite and gnd sampling
Rapid turnaround on analytical sen/ices
Field/screening analyses
PRP-lead removal actions
Goal of characterizing site (e.g., defining extent of contamination)
Focus on NCP removal action criteria
determine whether to undertake a time-critical
removal action, the PA should be completed before
developing the integrated sampling plan. Otherwise,
the remedial site assessment sampling needs may not
be appropriately factored into the sampling plan. By
collecting enough data to develop a preliminary HRS
score, the Region can determine whether the site may
be eligible for the NPL and whether it is worthwhile
to collect HRS-related samples. The PA report can
be combined with an SI report at a later time, if
appropriate.
An integrated sampling approach implies the need for
a coherent approach to sample analysis. Some
general principles should be followed to avoid major
problems. Analytical data must be suitable for NPL
purposes. Analytical services should include the
appropriate reporting requirements to allow for data
validation at a later date, if necessary. Table 5 lists
some data quality considerations for analytical data
used to support an HRS score.
The focus of this fact sheet is on the technical
integration of assessments at sites where there is a
potential for no action, early actions, or long-term
actions. In some cases, the Region will rule out the
need for one of those, and the assessment process
under SACM will be similar to a traditional removal
or remedial site assessment.
Integration of assessments under SACM will reduce
duplication of effort at sites by addressing them with
a single assessment approach which incorporates the
objectives of both programs as applicable to each
site. Integration of assessments is an efficient
blending of similar procedures which may be
appropriate at some sites and meets the objectives and
needs of both programs.
-------
Table 5: Analytical Data Quality Needs For MRS Observed Releases
Sampling procedures, location, and conditions documented in field log
Chain of custody.
Field blanks for each parameter for each day of sampling. The concentration of contaminants detected must be at
least one order of magnitude below corresponding sample results.
Initial 2-point calibration. Low level standard at or below concentration level of concern. High concentration
standard no more than 2 orders of magnitude above the low concentration standard.
Continuing calibration using low level concentration standard after 10 to 15 sample analyses, or at the end of the
day/sampling event, whichever occurs first. (This step ensures consistent instrument response.)
Blanks run aher high level samples to avoid cross contarrunation.
Specific examples of acceptable field methods:
• X-ray fluorescence (XRF) for metals with site-specific standard matrix or with 10 percent lab confirmation by
accepted EPA atomic absorption (AA) method.
• Field headspace or vadose zone VOC analysis with site specific standards, coupled with previous site information
such as spill composition, 10 percent split for verification by an accepted EPA method, or successful field
analysis of a PE or reference sample.
Additional copies can be obtained from:
Public EPA Employees
National Technical Information Service (NTIS) or Superfund Documents Center
U.S. Department of Commerce U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
5285 Port Royal Road 401 M Street, SW (OS-245)
Springfield, VA 22161 Washington, DC 20460
(703) 487-4650 t (202) 260-9760 or (202) 260-2596 (FAX)
Order #: PB93-963341
United States
Environmental Protection Agency
5204G
Washington, DC 20460
S300 Penalty for Private Use
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United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of
Solid Waste and
Emergency Response
Directive 9285.7-14FS
PB94-963311
EPA/540/F-94/028
July 1994
&EPA
Using Qualified Data to
Document an Observed Release
Office of Emergency and Remedial Response
Hazardous Site Evaluation Division (5204G)
Quick Reference Fact Sheet
Abstract
Data validation checks the accuracy of analytical data, and qualifies results that fall outside performance criteria of
the Contract Laboratory Program (CLP). Results qualified with a "J" are estimated concentrations that may be
biased, but may be used to determine an observed release in Hazard Ranking System (HRS) evaluation. This fact
sheet explains the conditions for use of T-qualified data, and introduces factors which compensate for variability
and enable their use in HRS evaluation.
Why Qualify Data?
Chemical concentration data for environmental
decision-making are generated using analytical
methods. EPA analytical chemistry methods are
designed to provide the definitive analyte
identification and quantitation needed to establish an
observed release under the Hazard Ranking System
(HRS). Routine operational variations in sampling
and analysis inevitably introduce a degree of error
into the analytical data. Data validation checks the
usability of the analytical data for HRS evaluation and
identifies the error (bias) present. The validation
process qualifies the biased data. Certain types of
qualified data for release and background samples
may be used to determine an observed release.
EPA Data Qualifiers
EPA analytical methods (e.g., SW-846 and Contract
Laboratory Program [CLP]) introduce a number of
Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC)
mechanisms during the course of sample analysis to
measure qualitative and quantitative accuracy.3l4A9
Such mechanisms include matrix spikes, matrix spike
duplicates, laboratory control samples, surrogates,
blanks, laboratory duplicates, and quarterly blind
performance evaluation (PE) samples. Surrogates
and spikes are chemically similar to the analytes of
interest and thus behave similarly during the
analytical process. They are introduced or "spiked"
at a known concentration into the field samples
before analysis. Comparison of the known
concentrations of the surrogates and spikes with their
analytical results measures accuracy, and may indicate
bias caused by interferences from the sample medium
(matrix effect).1*9 Laboratory control samples
contain known concentrations of target analytes and
are analyzed in the same batch as field samples.
Their results are used to measure laboratory
accuracy. Blanks are analyzed to detect any
extraneous contamination introduced either in the
field or in the laboratory. Laboratory duplicates
consist of one sample that undergoes two separate
analyses; the results are compared to determine
laboratory precision. Quarterly blind PE samples also
evaluate lab precision.
CLP and other EPA analytical methods include
specifications for acceptable identification, and
minimum and maximum percent recovery of the
target analytes and QA/QC compounds. Data are
validated according to guidelines which set
performance criteria for instrument calibration,
analyte identification, and identification and recovery
of the QA/QC compounds. 3/lf The National
Functional Guidelines for Data Review used in EPA
validation were designed for data generated under the
CLP organic and inorganic analytical protocols.1Z3<4
The guidelines do not preclude the validation of field
and non-CLP data; many EPA Regions have adapted
the National Functional Guidelines for Data Review to
validate non-CLP data. Data which do not meet the
-------
guidelines' performance criteria are qualified to
indicate bias or QC deficiencies. The data validation
report usually explains why the data were qualified
and indicates the direction of bias when it can be
determined. Most EPA validation guidelines use the
data qualifiers presented below. u (Other data
qualifiers besides these are in use; always check the
validation report for the exact list of qualifiers and
their meanings.)
• "U" qualifier - the analyte was analyzed for,
but was not detected above the reported
sample quantitation limit. For practical
purposes, "U" means "not detected"; the result
is usable for characterizing background
concentrati'ns for HRS evaJ"
-------
Qualified Data and Direction of Bias
Qualified data may be used when it can be
demonstrated that the data meet the HRS rule for
determining an observed release despite the bias in
the reported concentrations. This condition depends
on the direction of bias: low bias data may be used
for release samples, and high bias data may be used
for background samples. Low bias release samples
are underestimates of true concentration. Under-
estimated release concentrations that still meet the
HRS criteria (e.g., they are still three times
background level) clearly establish an observed
release. High bias background samples are
overestimates of background level. If the
concentration of unbiased release samples still
significantly exceeds an overestimated background
level according to HRS criteria, an observed release
is clearly established. Similarly, an observed release
is established when low bias release concentrations
significantly exceed high bias background
concentrations according to the HRS criteria.
These scenarios show that low bias "J-"qualified data
may be used for release samples at their reported
concentrations, and that high bias "J-"qualified data
may be used for background samples at their
reported concentrations.
High bias release samples may not be used at their
reported concentrations because they are an
overestimate of true concentration; the true
concentration might be less than the HRS criteria for
an observed release. The reported concentration for
low bias background concentrations may not be
compared to release samples because it is most likely
an underestimate of background level; the release
sample concentration might not significantly exceed
the background concenU ation. However, high bias
release data and low bias background data may be
used with factors which compensate for the variability
in the data. The factors will enable these types of
biased data to meet HRS criteria for determining an
observed release.
Factors for Biased Data: Tables 1 through 4 (pages
6-13) present analvte-specific factors to address the
uncertainty when determining an observed release
using high bias release data and low bias background
data. The factors are derived from percent recoveries
of matrix spikes, surrogates, and laboratory control
samples in the CLP Analytical Results Database
(CARD) from January 1993 to March 1994.
The range of CARD data for each analyte includes 95
percent of all percent recoveries. Discarding outliers
left 95 percent of the CARD data available for
calculating factors. The factors are ratios of percent
recovery values at the 97.5 and 2.5 percentiles. The
ratios generally show a consistent pattern.
An attempt to "convert" a biased value to its true
concentration is not recommended because the
CARD data do not differentiate and quantify
individual sources of variation. The factors are
applied as "safety factors" to ensure that biased data
can be used to meet HRS criteria for determining an
observed release. Dividing a high bias value by a
factor effectively deflates it from the high end of the
range to the low end (low bias • alue). Multiplying a
low bias value by the factor effectively inflates it to a
high bias value. Use of the ratio of percentiles is a
"worst-case" assumption that the data are biased by
the extent of the range of CARD data considered.
The factors either inflate the values to the high end of
the range, or deflate the data to the low end, and thus
compensate for the apparent variability when
comparing a high bias value to a low bias value (see
Exhibit 1).
Factors have been selected for all analytes in the CLP
Target Compound List (organic analytes) and Target
Analyte List (inorganic analytes). Some organic
factors were derived from matrix spike percent
recoveries, and some from surrogate percent
recoveries, depending on availability of data. When
both matrix spike and surrogate data were available
for the same compound, the larger value
(representing more extreme high and low percent
recoveries) was used. Laborato. •/ control samples
were used to calculate some of the inorganic factors.
A default factor of 10 was used for analytes when
percent recovery data were unavailable.
Application of the Factors: Exhibit 1 shows how to
apply the factors to "J" qualified data. High bias
background data, low bias release data, and unbiased
data may be used at their reported concentrations.
Multiply low bias background sample data by the
analyte-specific factor to bring them to their new
value. The new background value -ffectively becomes
a high bias value that may be used to determine an
observed release. Divide high bias release sample
data by the analyte-specific factor to bring them to
their new value. The new release sample value
effectively becomes a low bias result that may be used
-------
Exhibit 1: Use of Factors for "J"-Qualified Data
Type of Sample
Background
Sample
Release
Sample
Type of Bias
No Bias
Low Bias
High Bias
Unknown Bias
No Bias
Low Bias
High Bias
Unknown Bias
Action Required
Nonu: Use concentration without factor
Multiply concentration by factor
None: Use concentration without factor
Multiply concentration by factor
None: Use concentration without factor
None: Use concentration without factor
Divide concentration by factor
Divide concentration by factor
to determine an observed release. Note: Adjusted
release and background values must still meet HRS
criteria (e.g., release concentration must be at least
three times background level) to determine an observed
release.
Examples Using Trichloroethene in Soil:
1. Release sample data biased low, background
sample data biased high.
Release sample value:
Background sample value:
30 MgAg (J) low bias
10 Mg/kg (J) high bias
In this instance, the direction of the bias indicates
that the release sample concentration exceeds
background by more than three times, so an observed
release is established (provided all other HRS criteria
are met). Use of the factors is not needed.
2. Release sample data unbiased, background sample
data biased low.
Release sample value:
Background sample value:
30 Mg/kg no
10 Mg/kg (J) low bias
To use the data to establish an observed release,
multiply the background sample value by factor given
for trichloroethene (1.8). No factor is needed for the
release sample.
New background sample value:
(10 Mg/kg) x (1.8) = 18 Mg/kg (J) high bias
The release sample concentration does not exceed the
new background level by a factor of three, so an
observed release is not established.
3. Release sample data biased high, background
sample data unbiased.
Release sample value: 75 Mg/kg (J) high bias
Background sample value: 15 Mg/kg no bias
To use the data to establish an observed release,
divide the release sample value by the factor for
trichloroethene (1.8). No factor is needed for the
background sample.
New release sample value:
V75 Mg/kg) -s- (1.8) = 42 Mg/kg (J) low bias
The new release sample concentration does not
exceed background concentration by a factor of three,
so an observed release is not established.
4. Release sample data biased high, background
sample data biased low.
Release sample value: 100 Mg/kg CD high bias
Background sample value: 10 Mg/kg (J) low bias
To use the data to establish an observed release,
divide the release sample value and multiply the
background sample value by the factor given for
trichloroethene in soil (1.8).
ir
-------
New release sample value:
(100 /.g/kg) -r (1.8) = 56 MgAg (J) low bias
New background sample value:
(10 Mg/kg) x (1.8) = 18 MgAg (J) high bias
The new release sample concentration is three times
the new background concentration, so an observed
release is established, provided all other HRS criteria
are met.
Documentation Requirements for Use of Qualified
Data: When using "J"-qualified data to determine an
observed release, include the T-qualifier commentary
from the data validation report in the HRS package.
This step will ensure that the direction of bias is
documented.
Use of Other Factors: EPA Regions may substitute
higher factor values other than the ones in this fact
sheet on a case-by-case basis when technically
justified. For example, other factors may be applied
to conform with site-specific Data Quality Objectives
(DQOs) or with Regional Standard Operating
Procedures (SOPs).10
Detection Limit Restrictions: Factors may only be
applied to "J" data with concentrations above the CLP
Contract Required Quantitation Limit (CRQL) or
Contract Required Detection Limit (CRDL). "J"-
qualified data with concentrations below CLP
detection limits cannot be used to document an
observed release.
Use of "UJ"-Qualified Data
A combination of the "U" and "J" qualifiers indicates
that the reported value may not accurately represent
the concentration necessary to detect the analyte in
the sample. Under limited conditions, "UJ" data can
be used to represent background when determining
an observed release. These conditions include
instances when there is confidence that the
background concentration has not been detected and
the sample measurement that establishes the observed
release equals or exceeds the SQL or other
appropriate detection limit. This reasoning is based
on the presence of a high bias in the background
sample. Thus, UJ data can be used only when all of
the following conditions apply.
• The "UJ" value applies to the background
sample and represents the detection limit,
• The "UJ" value is biased high, and
• The release sample concentration exceeds the
SQL (or applicable detection limit) and is
unbiased or biased low.
Summary
Data validation checks the usability of analytical data
and identifies certain errors (bias). T-qualified data
identify that analytes are present, but the reported
values represent estimated concentrations associated
with bias. Low bias release data and high bias
background data may be used at the reported values.
High bias release data and low bias background data
may not be used at their reported concentrations
because they do not establish an observed release
with certainty. Application of factors introduced in
this fact sheet compensate for this u icertainty, and
enable "J" data to be used to determine an observed
release.
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Table 1: Factors for Volatile Organic Analytes
VOLATILE
ORGANIC
ANALYTES
1,1.1-TRlCHLOROETHANE
1 , 1 ,2,2-TETRACHLOROETHANE
1,1,2-TRlCHLOROETHANE
1.1-DICHLOROETHANE
1,1-DICHLOROETHENE
1 ,2-DlCHLOROETHANE
1 ,2-DICHLOROETHENE (TOTAL)
1 ,2-DICHLOROPROPANE
2-BLTANONE
2-HEXANONE
4-METHYL-2-PENTANONE
ACETONE
BENZENE
BROMODICHLOROMETHANE
BROMOFORM
BROMOMETHANE
CARBON DISULFIDE
SOIL MATRIX
Number of
CARD
Samples
Reviewed
-
11144
—
11144
2064
11144
11144
—
11144
11144
11144
11144
2060
—
—
11144
11144
Factor
10.0
1.5
10.0
1.4
2.4
1.4
1.4
10.0
1.4
1.5
1.5
1.4
1.7
10.0
10.0
1.4
1.4
WATER MATRIX
Number of
CARD
Samples
Reviewed
-
9180
—
9179
1484
9179
9179
—
9179
9180
9180
9179
1482
—
-
9179
9179
Factor
10.0
1.2
10.0
1.3
2.0
1.3
1.3
10.0
1.3
1.2
,2
,3
1.5
10.0
10.0
1.3
1.3
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Table 1: Factors tor Volatile Organic Analytes (continued)
VOLATILE
ORGANIC
ANALYTES
CARBON TETRACHLORIDE
CHLOROBENZENE
CHLOROETHANE
CHLOROFORM
CHLOROMETHANE
CIS-1 ,3-DICHLOROPROPENE
DIBROMOCHLOROMETHANE
ETHYLBENZENE
METHYLENE CHLORIDE
STYRENE
TETRACHLOROETHENE
TOLUENE
TRANS-1 ,3-DICHLOROPROPENE
TRICHLOROETHENE
VINYL CHLORIDE
XYLENE (TOTAL)
SOIL MATRIX
Number of
CARD
Samples
Reviewed
-
2058
11144
11144
11144
--
-
11144
11144
11144
11144
2029
-
2046
11144
11144
Factor
10.0
1.6
1.4
1.4
1.4
10.0
10.0
1.5
1.4
1.5
1.5
2.0
10.0
1.8
1.4
1.5
WATER MATRIX
Number of
CARD
Samples
Reviewed
-
1480
9179
9179
9179
-
-
9180
9179
9180
9180
1468
—
1452
9179
9180
Factor
10.0
1.4
1.3
1.3
1.3
10.0
10.0
1.2
1.3
1.3
1.2
1.4
10.0
1.5
1.3
1.2
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Table 2: Factors for Semivolatile Organic Analytes
SEMIVOLATILE
ORGANIC
ANALYTES
1 ,2,4-TRlCHLOROBENZENE
1.2-DICHLOROBENZENE
1.3-DICHLOROBEN2ENE
1,4-DICHLOROBENZENE
2,2'-OXYBIS(1 -CHLOROPROPANE)
2,4,5-TRICHLOROPHENOL
2,4,6-TRICHLOROPHENOL
2,4-DICHLOROPHENOL
2,4-DIMETHYLPHENOL
2,4-DINITROPHENOL
2,4-DINITROTOLUENE
2,6-DlNITROTOLUENE
2-CHLORONAPHTHALENE
2-CHLOROPHENOL
2-METHYLNAPHTHALENE
2-METHYLPHENOL
2-NITROANILINE
2-NITROPHENOL
3,3'-DICHLOROBENZIDINE
3-NlTROANIUNE
4.6-DIN1TRO-2-METHYLPHENOL
4-BROMOPHENYL-PHENYL ETHER
4-CHLORO-3-METHY LPHENOL
4-CHLOROANILINE
4-CHLOROPHENYL-PHENYL ETHER
4-METHYLPHENOL
SOIL MATRIX
Number of
CARD
Samples
Reviewed
1978
11899
11899
1980
11899
11889
11889
11896
11896
11889
1979
11889
11889
1930
11896
11809
11°89
11?96
11898
-
-
-
1927
11896
11899
11899
Factor
3.5
3.8
3.8
3.8
3.8
8.9
8.9
4.0
4.0
8.9
3.4
8.9
8.9
3.2
4.0
3.8
8.9
4.0
4.3
10.0
10.0
10.0
3.6
4.0
8.9
3.8
WATER MATRIX'
Number of
CARD
Samples
Reviewed
1375
7951
7951
1--73
7951
7952
7952
7949
7949
7952
1375
7952
7952
1376
7949
795.
7952
7949
7951
-
-
-
1375
7949
7952
7951
Fa etc
2.9
4.0
4.0
3.0
4.0
3.6
3.6
2.5
2.5
3.6
4
^
3.6
3.6
2.9
2.5
4.0
3.6
2.5
6.0
10.0
10.0
10.0
3.5
2.5
3.6
»
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Table 2: Factors for Semivolatile Organic Analytes (continued)
SEMIVOLATILE
ORGANIC
ANALYTES
4-NITROANIUNE
4-NITROPHENOL
ACENAPHTHENE
ACENAPHTHYLENE
ANTHRACENE
BENZO(A)ANTHRACENE
BENZO(A)PYRENE
BENZO(B)FLUORANTHENE
BENZO(G,H,!)PERYLENE
BENZO(K)FLUORANTHENE
BIS(2-CHLOROETHOXY)METHANE
BIS(2-CHLOROETHYL)ETHER
BIS(2-ETHYLHEXYL)PHTHALATE
BUTYLBENZYLPHTHALATE
CARBAZOLE
CHRYSENE
DI-N-BUTYLPHTH MATE
DI-N-OCTYLPHTHMATE
D!BENZ(A,H)ANTHRACENE
DIBENZOFURAN
DIETHYLPHTHALATE
DIMETHYLPHTHALATE
FLUORANTHENE
FLUORENE
HEXACHLOROBENZENE
HEXACHLOROBUTADIENE
HEXACHLOROCYCLOPENTADIENE
SOIL MATRIX
Number of
CARD
Samples
Reviewed
11889
1905
1965
11889
-
11898
-
--
-
-
11896
11899
11898
11898
-
11898
-
-
11889
11889
11889
11889
-
11889
-
11896
11889
Factor
8.9
4.8
3.1
8.9
10.0
4.3
10.0
10.0
10.0
10.0
4.0
3.8
4.3
4.3
10.0
4.3
10.0
10.0
8.9
8.9
8.9
8.9
10.0
8.9
10.0
4.0
8.9
WATER MATRIX
Number of
CARD
Samples
Reviewed
7952
1368
1361
7952
-
7951
-
-
--
-
7949
7951
7951
7951
-
7951
—
-
7952
7952
7952
7952
-
7952
-
7949
7952
Factor
3.6
4.5
3.0
3.6
10.0
6.0
10.0
10.0
10.0
10.0
2.5
4.0
6.0
6.0
10.0
6.0
10.0
10.0
3.6
3.6
3.6
3.6
10.0
3.6
10.0
2.5
3.6
-------
Table 2: Factors for Semivolatile Organic Analytes (continued)
SEMIVOLATILE
ORGANIC
ANALYTES
HEXACHLOROETHANE
4-NITROPHENOLINDENO(1,2,3-CD)PYRENE
ISOPHORONE
N-NITROSO-DI-N-PROPYLAMINE
N-NITROSODIPHENYLAMINE (1)
NAPHTHALENE
NITROBENZENE
PENTACHLOROPHENOL
PHENANTHRENE
PHENOL
PYRENE
SOIL MATRIX
Number of
CARD
Samples
Reviewed
11899
—
11896
1966
—
11896
11896
1895
-
1924
1901
Factor
3.8
10.0
4.0
3.7
10.0
4.0
4.0
18.8
10.0
3.2
8.3
WATER MATRIX
Number of
CARD
Samples
Reviewed
7951
~
7949
1345
-
7949
7949
1359
-
1368
1369
Factor
4.0
10.0
2.5
3.7
10.0
2.5
2.5
3.7
10.0
3.5
4.9 j
10
-------
Table 3: Factors tor Pesticide/PCB Analytes
PESTICIDE/PCB
ANALYTES
4,4'-DDD
4,4'-DDE
4,4'-DDT
ALDRIN
ALPHA-BHC
ALPHA-CHLORDANE
AROCLOR-1016
AROCLOR-1221
AROCLOR-1232
AROCLOR-1242
AROCLOR-1248
AROCLOR-1254
AROCLOR-1260
BETA-BHC
DELTA-BHC
DIELDRIN
SOIL MATRIX
Number of CARD
Samples Reviewed
-
-
1801
1870
—
-
-
-
-
—
—
—
-
—
—
1886
Factor
10.0
10.0
7.4
7.9
10.0
10.0
10.0
10.0
10.0
10.0
10.0
10.0
10.0
10.0
10.0
6.2
WATER MATRIX
Number of CARD
Samples Reviewed
—
-
1353
1350
-
-
23305
23305
23305
23305
23305
23305
23305
-
-
1350
Factor
10.0
10.0
4.6
4.8
10.0
10.0
8.7
8.7
8.7
8.7
8.7
8.7
8.7
10.0
10.0
2.8
11
-------
Table 3: Factors for Pesticide/PCB Analytes (continued)
PESTICIDE/PCB
ANALYTES
ENDOSULFAN 1
ENDOSULFAN II
ENDOSULFAN SULFATE
ENDRIN
ENDRIN ALDEHYDE
ENDRIN KETONE
GAMMA-BHC (UNDANE)
GAMMA-CHLORDANE
HEPTACHLOR
HEPTACHLOR EPOXIDE
METHOXYCHLOR
TOXAPHENE
SOIL MATRIX
Number of CARD
Samples Reviewed
-
—
—
1866
-
-
1872
-
1877
—
-
-
Factor
10.0
10.0
10.0
8.5
10.0
10.0
4.5
10.0
4.5
10.0
10.0
10.0
WATER MATRIX
Number of CARD
Samples Reviewed
-
-
-
1348
-
-
1350
-
1351
-
-
-
Factor
10.0
10.0
10.0
3.4
10.0
" 10.0
3.1
10.0
3.6
10.0
10.0
10.0
12
IE S IF If
-------
Table 4: Factors for Inorganic Analytes
INORGANIC
ANALYTES
ALUMINUM
ANTIMONY
ARSENIC
BARIUM
BERYLLIUM
CADMIUM
CALCIUM
CHROMIUM
COBALT
COPPER
CYANIDE
IRON
LEAD
MAGNESIUM
MANGANESE
MERCURY
NICKEL
POTASSIUM
SELENIUM
SILVER
SODIUM
THALUUM
VANADIUM
ZINC
SOIL MATRIX
Number of CARD
Samples Reviewed
1147
1153
1208
1149
1150
1148
1163
1148
1153
1154
884
1149
1331
1143
1151
1563
1150
-
1190
1152
-
1197
1152
1154
Factor
1.5
1.8
1.6
3.3
1.2
1.3
1.2
1.2
1.2
1.1
1.4
1.2
1.3
1.2
1.2
1.7
1.2
10.0
2.3
1.6
10.0
1.7
1.2
1.3
WATER MATRIX
Number of CARD
Samples Reviewed
1686
1688
1701
1686
1686
1685
1685
1686
1685
1683
—
1687
1727
1686
1685
—
1685
—
1695
1684
-
1691
1685
1689
Factor
1.2
1.2
1.2
1.1
1.2
1.2
1.1
1.2
1.2
1.2
10.0
1.2
1.2
1.1
1.2
10.0
1.2
10.0
1.3
1.3
10.0
1.2
1.1
1.2
13
-------
References
1. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1994.
CLP National Functional Guidelines for Inorganic
Data Review. Office of Solid Waste and
Emergency Response. Publication 9240.1-05-01.
2. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1993.
CLP National Functional Guidelines for Organic
Data Review. Office of Solid Waste and
Emergency Response. Publication 9240.1-05.
3. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1991.
Contract Laboratory Program Statement of Work for
Inorganics Analysis. Document No. ILM02.0
4. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1991.
Contract Laboratory Program Statement of Work for
Organics Analysis. Office of Solid Waste and
Emergency Response. Document No. OLM1.8
5. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1992.
Hazard Ranking System Guidance Manual. Office
of Sob'd Waste and Emergency Response.
Directive 9345.1-07.
6. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1991.
Guidance for Performing Preliminary Assessments
Under CERCLA. Office of Solid Waste and
Emergency Response. Publication 9345.0-01A.
7. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1992.
Guidance for Performing Site Inspections under
CERCLA. Office of Solid Waste and Emergency
Response. Directive 9345.1-05.
8. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1992.
Quality Assurance/Quality Control Samples.
Environmental Response Team Quality Assurance
Technical Information Bulletin.
9. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 19&o. Test
Methods for Evaluating Solid Waste (SW-846):
Physical and Chemical Methods. Office of Solid
Waste and Emergency Response. Document No.
SW-846.
10. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1993.
Data Quality Objectives Process for Superfund.
Office of Emergency and Remedial Response.
Directive 9355.9-01.
14
-------
Additional copies can be obtained from:
National Technical Information Service (NTIS)
U.S. Department of Commerce
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield, VA 22161
(703) 487-4650
Order #94-963311
United States
Environmental Protection Agency
5204G
Washington, DC 20460
$300 Penalty for Private Use
-------
APPENDIX B
Acronym List
and
Glossary
-------
ACRONYM LIST
AALAC ambient aquatic life advisory concentration
AOC area of observed contamination
AWQC ambient water quality criteria
BCF bioconcentration factor
BCFV bioconcentration factor value
BIA Bureau of Indian Affairs
BLM Bureau of Land Management
BPF bioaccumulation potential factor
BPFV bioaccumulation potential factor value
BTAG Biological Technical Assistance Group
CA cooperative agreement
CERCLA Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act
CERCLIS Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Information System
CERI Center for Environmental Research Information
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
CLP Contract Laboratory Program
CRDL contract-required detection limit
CRQL contract-required quantitation limit
CWA Clean Water Act
ODD dichloro-diphenyl-dichloro-ethane
DDE dichloro-diphenyl-ethane
DDT dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane
DL detection limit
DNAPL dense nonaqueous phase liquid
DOD U.S. Department of Defense
DOE U.S. Department of Energy
DOT U.S. Department of Transportation
EECA engineering evaluation/cost analysis
EIS environmental impact statement
EP extraction procedure
EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
ERCS Emergency Response Cleanup Services
ERD Emergency Response Division
ERT Environmental Response Team
FDAAL Food and Drug Administration advisory level
FRDS Federal Data Reporting System
FWRS Fish and Wildlife Reference Service
CIS Geographic Information System
GW ground water
HASP health and safety plan
HFC human food chain
HRS Hazard Ranking System
HRSGM Hazard Ranking System Guidance Manual
HWQ hazardous waste quantity
IAG interagency agreement
IDL instrument detection limit
IDW investigation-derived waste
LNAPL light nonaqueous phase liquid
LR likelihood of release
Acronym List
page 1
-------
ACRONYM LIST
MCL maximum contaminant level
MCLG maximum contaminant level goal
MDL method detection limit
MMS Minerals Management Service
NAAQS National Ambient Air Quality Standards
NAWDEX National Water Data Exchange
NCP National Contingency Plan
NESHAP National Emission Standard for Hazardous Air Pollutants
NFRAP no further remedial action planned
NMFS National Marine Fisheries Service
NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
NPL National Priorities List
NPS National Park Service
NRC Nuclear Regulatory Commission
NRT National Response Team
NSFF National Sport Fishing Federation
NWI National Wetlands Inventory
ORP EPA Office of Radiation Programs
OSC Onscene Coordinator
OSM Office of Surface Mining
OSWER Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response
OVA organic vapor analyzer
OWRS Office of Water Regulations and Standards
PA preliminary assessment
PCB polychlorinated biphenyl
PPE probable point of entry
PRP potentially responsible party
QA quality assurance
QC quality control
RA removal action
RAS Routine Analytical Services
REAC Regional Engineering Analytical Contract
RCRA Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
RDT Regional Decision Team
RI/FS remedial investigation/feasibility study
RREL Risk Reduction Engineering Laboratory
RRT Regional Response Team
SACM Superfund Accelerated Cleanup Model
SARA Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act
SAS Special Analytical Services
SAV submerged aquatic vegetation
SC screening concentration
SCDM Superfund Chemical Data Matrix
SCS Soil Conservation Service
SDWA Safe Drinking Water Act
SF slope factor
SI site inspection
SMO sample management officer
SQL sample quantitation limit
SW surface water
SWDA Solid Waste Disposal Act
Acronym List
page 2
-------
ACRONYM LIST
TAL target analyte list
TAT Technical Assistance Team
TCL target compound list
TCLP Toxic Characteristic Leaching Procedure
TDL target distance limit
TSCA Toxic Substances Control Act
TSDF treatment, storage, or disposal facility
USC U.S. Code
USDA U.S. Department of Agriculture
USFS U.S. Forest Service
USFWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
USGS U.S. Geological Survey
UV ultraviolet
WC waste characteristics
WHPA wellhead protection area
Acronym List
page 3
-------
GLOSSARY
Apportioned population: In the evaluation of drinking water target populations associated with a
blended system, that portion of the population evaluated as being served by an individual well or
intake within the system.
Aquifer: A saturated subsurface zone from which drinking water is drawn.
Blended system. A drinking water supply system which can or does combine (e.g., via connecting
valves) water from more than one well or surface water intake, or from a combination of wells and
intakes.
CERCLA: Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980.
CERCLA Information System: CERCLIS, EPA's computerized inventory and tracking system for
potential hazardous waste sites.
CERCLIS: CERCLA Information System.
Coastal tidal waters: Surface water body type that includes embayments, harbors, sounds,
estuaries, back bays, etc. Such water bodies are in the interval seaward from the mouths of rivers
and landward from the 12-mile baseline marking the transition to the ocean water body type.
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980: Legislation that
established the Federal Superfund for response to uncontrolled releases of hazardous substances to
the environment.
Contaminated soil: Soil onto which available evidence indicates that a hazardous substance was
spilled, spread, disposed, or deposited.
Depth to aquifer: The vertical distance between the deepest point at which hazardous substances
are suspected and the top of the shallowest aquifer that supplies drinking water.
Distance to surface water: The shortest distance that runoff would follow from a source to surface
water.
Drinking water population: The number of residents, workers, and students who drink water drawn
from wells or surface water intakes located within target distance limit:
Drums: Portable containers designed to hold a standard 55-gallon volume of wastes.
Emergency response: See "removal."
Factor: The basic element of site assessment requiring data collection and evaluation for scoring
purposes.
Factor category: A set of related factors. Each pathway consists of three factor categories --
likelihood of release or exposure, targets, and waste characteristics.
Federal Register: Daily publication of the Government Printing Office; contains public notices,
rules, and regulations issued by the Federal Government. Cited as " FR ."
Glossary
page 1
-------
FEIVIA: Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Fishery: An area of a surface water body from which food chain organisms are taken or could be
taken for human consumption on a subsistence, sporting, or commercial basis. Food chain
organisms include fish, shellfish, crustaceans, amphibians, and amphibious reptiles.
FR: Federal Register.
GEMS: Geographical Exposure Modeling System.
Geographical Exposure Modeling System: Population database maintained by EPA's Office of Toxic
Substances; provides residential populations in specified distance rings around a point location.
Ha7ard Ranking System: EPA's principal mechanism for placing sites on the NPL.
Hazardous constituent: Hazardous substance.
Hazardous substance: Material defined as a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant in
CERCLA Sections 101(14) and 101(33).
Hazardous waste: Any material suspected to contain a hazardous substance, pollutant, or
contaminant that is or was in a source.
HRS: Hazard Ranking System.
Karst: A kind of terrain with characteristics of relief and drainage arising from a high degree of
rock solubility. The majority of karst conditions occur in limestone areas, but karst may also occur
in areas of dolomite, gypsum, or salt deposits. Features associated with karst terrain may include
irregular topography, abrupt ridges, sinkholes, caverns, abundant springs, disappearing streams,
and a general lack of a well-developed surface drainage system of tributaries and streams.
Lake: A type of surface water body which includes:
• Natural and artificially-made lakes or ponds that lie along rivers or streams (but excluding
the Great Lakes).
• Isolated but perennial lakes, ponds, and wetlands.
• Static water channels or oxbow lakes contiguous to streams or rivers.
• Streams or small rivers, without diking, that merge into surrounding perennially-inundated
wetlands.
• Wetlands contiguous to water bodies defined as lakes are considered to be part of the lake.
Landfill: An engineered (by excavation or construction) or natural hole in the ground into which
wastes have been disposed by backfilling, or by contemporaneous soil deposition with waste
disposal,'covering wastes from view.
Land treatment: Landfarming or other land treatment method of waste management in which liquid
wastes or sludges are spread over land and tilled, or liquids are injected at shallow depths into
soils.
Glossary
page 2
-------
National Contingency Plan: Regulation that establishes roles, responsibilities, and authorities for
responding to hazardous substance releases. The NCP established the HRS as the principal
mechanism for placing sites on the NPL.
National Priorities List: Under the Superfund program, the list of releases and potential releases of
hazardous substances, pollutants, and contaminants that appear to pose the greatest threat to
public health, welfare, and the environment.
NCP: National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan, commonly known as the
National Contingency Plan.
NFRAP: No further remedial action planned; site disposition decision that further response under
the Federal Superfund is not necessary.
No suspected release: A professional judgement conclusion based on site and pathway conditions
indicating that a hazardous substance is not likely to have been released to the environment. (No
suspected release is the PA term analogous to the HRS "potential to release.")
NPL: National Priorities List.
Ocean: A type of surface water body which includes:
• Ocean areas seaward from a baseline distance of 1 2 miles from shore.
• The Great Lakes, along with wetlands contiguous to them.
PA: Preliminary assessment.
PA-Score: EPA's computer program that automates PA site scoring.
Pathway: The environmental medium through which a hazardous substance may threaten targets.
The PA evaluates the migration and threat potential through the ground water, surface water, air,
and soil exposure pathways.
Pile: Any non-containerized accumulation above the ground surface of solid, non-flowing wastes;
includes open dumps. Some types of piles are: Chemical Waste Pile — consists primarily of
discarded chemical products, by-products, radioactive wastes, or used or unused feedstocks; Scrap
Metal or Junk Pile -- consists primarily of scrap metal or discarded durable goods such as
appliances, automobiles, auto parts, or batteries, composed of materials suspected to contain or
have contained a hazardous substance; Tailings Pile -- consists primarily of any combination of
overburden from a mining operation and tailings from a mineral mining, beneficiation, or processing
operation; Trash Pile -- consists primarily of paper, garbage, or discarded non-durable goods which
are suspected to contain or have contained a hazardous substance.
PPE: Probable point of entry.
Preliminary assessment: Initial stage of site assessment under Superfund; designed to distinguish
between sites that pose little or no threat to human health and the environment and sites that
require further investigation.
PREscore: EPA's computer program that automates site scoring with the Hazard Ranking System
Glossary
page 3
-------
Primary target: A target which, based on professional judgement of site and pathway conditions
and target characteristics, has a relatively high likelihood of exposure to a hazardous substance.
(Primary target is the PA term analogous to the MRS target exposed to Level I or Level II actual
contamination.)
Probable point of entry: The point at which runoff from the site most likely enters surface water.
RCRA- Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976.
Removal: An action taken to eliminate, control, or otherwise mitigate a threat posed to the public
health or environment due to release or threatened release of a hazardous substance. Removals
are relatively short-term actions to respond to situations requiring immediate action.
Resident: A person whose place of residence (full- or part-time) is within the target distance limit.
Resident individual: Under the soil exposure pathway, a resident or student within 200 feet of any
area of suspected contamination associated with the site.
Resident population: Under the soil exposure pathway, the number of residents and students
within 200 feet of any area of suspected contamination associated with the site.
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976: Legislation that established cradle-to-grave
accountability for hazardous wastes, from point of generation to point of ultimate disposal.
SARA: Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986.
Secondary target: A target which, based on professional judgement of site and pathway conditions V
and target characteristics, has a relatively low likelihood of exposure to a hazardous substance.
(Secondary target is the PA term analogous to the HRS target exposed to potential contamination.)
Sensitive environment: A terrestrial or aquatic resource, fragile natural setting, or other area with
unique or highly-valued environmental or cultural features.
SI: Site inspection.
She: The area consisting of the aggregation of sources, the areas between sources, and areas that
may have been contaminated due to migration from sources; site boundaries are independent of
property boundaries.
Site inspection: Second stage of site assessment under Superfund, conducted on sites that receive
a further action recommendation after the PA; builds on PA information and typically includes
sampling to identify hazardous substances, releases, and contaminated targets; identifies sites that
pose the greatest threats to human health and the environment.
Source: An area where a hazardous substance may have been deposited, stored, disposed, or
placed. Also, soil that may have become contaminated as a result of hazardous substance
migration. In general, however, the volumes of air, ground water, surface water, and surface
water sediments that may have become contaminated through migration are not considered
sources.
Stream flow: The average rate of flow of a water body, expressed in cubic feet per second (cfs). M
Glossary
page 4
-------
Stream or river: A type of surface water body which includes:
• Perennially-flowing waters from point of origin to the ocean or to coastal tidal waters,
whichever comes first, and wetlands contiguous to these flowing waters.
* Aboveground portions of disappearing rivers.
• Artificially-made ditches only insofar as they perennially flow into other surface water.
• Intermittently-flowing waters and contiguous intermittently-flowing ditches in areas where
mean annual precipitation is less than 20 inches.
Student: A full- or part-time attendee of a daycare facility or educational institution located within
the target distance limit.
Superfund Amendments and Reauthqrization Act of 1986: Legislation which extended the Federal
Superfund program and mandated revisions to the HRS.
Surface impoundment: A topographic depression, excavation, or diked area, primarily formed from
earthen materials (lined or unlined) and designed to hold accumulated liquid wastes, wastes
containing free liquids, or sludges that were not backfilled or otherwise covered during periods of
deposition; depression may be dry if deposited liquid has evaporated, volatilized or leached, or wet
with exposed liquid; structures that may be more specifically described as lagoon pond, aeration
pit, settling pond, tailings pond, sludge pit, etc.; also a surface impoundment that has been covered
with soil after the final deposition of waste materials (i.e., buried or backfilled).
Surface water: A naturally-occurring, perennial water body; also, some artificially-made and/or
intermittently-flowing water bodies. See "water body type" and subsequent definitions for more
detail.
Suspected release: A professional judgement conclusion based on site and pathway conditions
indicating that a hazardous substance is likely to have been released to the environment.
(Suspected release is the PA term analogous to the HRS "observed release.")
Tanks and non-drum containers: Any stationary device, designed to contain accumulated wastes,
constructed primarily of fabricated materials (such as wood, concrete, steel, or plastic) that provide
structural support; any portable or mobile device in which waste is stored or otherwise handled.
Target: A physical or environmental receptor that is within the target distance limit for a particular
pathway. Targets may include wells and surface water intakes supplying drinking water, fisheries,
sensitive environments, and resources.
Target distance limit: The maximum distance over which targets are evaluated. The target
distance limit varies by pathway: ground water and air pathways -- a 4-mile radius around the site;
surface water pathway -15 miles downstream from the probable point of entry to surface water,
soil exposure pathway - 200 feet (for the resident population threat) and 1 mile (for the nearby
population threat) from areas of known or suspected contamination.
Target population: The human population associated with the site and/or its targets. Target
populations consist of those people who use target wells or surface water intakes supplying
drinking water, consume food chain species taken from target fisheries, or are regularly present on
the site or within target distance limits.
Glossary
page 5
-------
Terrestrial sensitive environment: A terrestrial resource, fragile natural setting, or other area with
unique or highly-valued environmentsl or cultural features.
USF&WS: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
USGS: U.S. Geological Survey.
Water body type. Classification of a surface water body. Water body types include: streams and
rivers; lakes; oceans (includes the Great Lakes); and coastal tidal waters. See the specific
definition of each water body type for more detail.
Wetland: A type of sensitive environment characterized as an area that is sufficiently inundated or
saturated by surface or ground water to support vegetation adapted for life in saturated soil
conditions. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas.
Worker: Under the soil exposure pathway, a person who is employed on a full- or part-time basis
on the property on which the site is located. Under all other pathways, a person whose place of
full- or part-time employment is within the target distance limit.
Guidance for Performing Preliminary Assessments Under CERCLA, USEPA, Sept. 1997
Glossary
page 6
-------
APPENDIX C
Case Studies
-------
SOURCE SAMPLING EXERCISE: ACME MANUFACTURING COMPANY
OBJECTIVE:
Using available site information, develop a source sampling strategy implementing
procedures established in the SI guidance manual.
METHOD:
1. Review the general site information provided below.
2. Identify site sources on the map.
3. Develop a source sampling strategy that includes source characterization,
background determination, and collection of quality control samples. You are limited
to 20 samples. You do not need to use all available samples.
4. Record your sampling strategy on the table provided.
5. BONUS CHALLENGE: Complete this exercise using only 10 samples.
General Site Information:
• The ACME Manufacturing Company site is an inactive electroplating facility. The total
acreage is about 10 acres (see site map).
• Rinsewater from the electroplating process was discharged to treatment ponds from
1907 until 1985.
• Drums, which were located in the former drum storage area found on the northeastern
comer of the facility property, are believed to have contained waste solvents. They
were held there prior to offsite removal.
• Stained soil was observed adjacent to the bulk chemical unloading area and
manufacturing building.
• The waste pile appears to be dried sludge from the treatment ponds.
• The landfill reportedly received "off-spec' products, spent solvents, and treatment
pond sludge.
• Leachate seeps were observed along the southeast corner of the landfill with
stressed vegetation extending beyond the facility boundary.
Case Studies 10/94
page C-2
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SOURCE SAMPLING STRATEGY
SITE NAME:
Sample ID
Sample Type
Rationale
Total Samples:
Special Sampling Considerations:
Case Studies
page C-4
4/94
-------
BONUS SOURCE SAMPLING STRATEGY
SITE NAME:
Sample ID
Sample Type
Rationale
Total Samples:
Special Sampling Considerations:
4/94
Case Studies
page C-5
-------
SURFACE WATER SAMPLING EXERCISE: R. R. ACME LANDFILL
OBJECTIVE:
Using available site information, develop a single SI sampling strategy to test a PA
hypothesis of suspected contamination of surface water.
METHOD:
1. Review the general site information and map below.
2. Identify site sources on the map.
3. Identify probable points of entry (PPE).
A. Identify all primary and secondary targets.
5. Develop a sampling strategy to test the PA hypothesis of suspected release to
surface water. You should use the procedures outlined in the SI guidance to
demonstrate observed contamination. Because this is a single SI, all data must be
sufficient to complete HRS scoring and documentation.
6. You are limited to 20 samples. You do not need to use all available samples.
7. Record your sampling strategy on the table provided.
8. BONUS CHALLENGE: Develop a sampling strategy to demonstrate actual
contamination.
General Site Information:
• The R. R. Acme Landfill is a municipal landfill that was active between 1950 and
1980.
• The PA has determined that the surface water pathway is the major pathway of
concern for this site.
• The PA has determined that the hazardous substances of concern are DDT, lead, and
mercury.
• Critical distances:
- PPE to wetland = 200 feet
- PPE to wilderness area and habitat = 0.5 miles
- PPE to intake = 5 miles
Case Studies 4/94
page C-6
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SOURCE SAMPLING STRATEGY
SITE NAME:
Sample ID
Sample Type
Rationale
Total Samples:
Special Sampling Considerations:
Case Studies
page C-8
4/94
-------
BONUS SOURCE SAMPLING STRATEGY
SITE NAME:
Sample ID
Sample Type
Rationale
Total Samples:
Special Sampling Considerations:
4/94
Case Studies
page C-9
-------
CASE STUDY: SI SAMPLING STRATEGY
OBJECTIVE: ^
Using available site information for the Wolfram Industries site, develop a SI sampling
strategy implementing procedures established in the SI guidance manual.
METHOD:
1. Review the site information provided with this case study. The information is
derived from the preliminary assessment (PA).
2. Identify the following elements and label them on the appropriate maps:
- Sources
- Targets
- Areas of suspected contamination
- PPE
- In-water portion of the surface water pathway
3. Develop a list of objectives for an SI sampling plan
4. Develop a sampling strategy to test the following hypotheses:
- Suspected release to ground water, surface water, and air
- Suspected soil contamination
- Exposure of targets to contaminated ground water, surface water, soil, and air
5. Include the following elements in the sampling strategy:
- Characterization of background
- Demonstration of attribution
- Quality control (minimal)
6. There is a limit of 20 samples for this exercise. You are not required to use all
allocated samples.
7. Plot all sampling locations on the site map(s).
8. Complete the sampling strategy table.
Case Studies 10/94
page C-10
-------
SITE INSPECTION CASE STUDY: WOLFRAM INDUSTRIES
General Site Description
Wolfram Industries is a 12-acre site located within an industrial area in Harbor Hill County,
Fairlawn, New York. It consists of a laboratory, a warehouse, and a refinery. The site was
active from 1941 to 1989 and has since been abandoned. The Mosquito River is located east
of the site and flows south into Harbor Hill Bay. There are several small wetlands along the
banks of the Mosquito River. A potato farm occupies a piece of land to the east of the river.
Rainfall for this area is approximately 28 inches per year, according to the local weather sta-
tion records.
The GEMS data base provides the following population information for the region lying within
4 miles of the site.
Distance from Site
Onsite
0 - y* mile
y* - 1/2 mile
y2 - 1 mile
1 - 2 miles
2 - 3 miles
3-4 miles
Population
0
250
1,080
4,520
9,900
35,400
67,900
U.S. Census Bureau data for this region indicate an average 2.5 people per household.
Operational History
A review of site records indicates that this facility processed raw tungsten ore into tungsten
metal via crushing and hydrochloric acid extraction and precipitation reactions. Processed
tungsten was used for making lighting filaments and for making other tungsten compounds.
Waste products include acidic metallic slag that contains high concentrations of hexavalent
chromium, lead, zinc, manganese, iron, copper, and cyanide.
4/94
Case Studies
page C-11
-------
Information obtained during the PA revealed several possible source areas onsite (see Figure
1, Wolfram Industries site map). The slag is stored in stacked 55-gallon drums throughout the
site. The outdoor portions of the site are not paved. Two large piles of fine-grained black ore
tailings are adjacent to the refining facility. They are estimated to contain 375 cubic yards of
waste within an estimated combined area of 416 square feet. A plastic-lined lagoon of
unknown depth is found to the north of the refinery. It occupies an area of 2,000 square feet.
The lagoon was reported to contain process waters and acidic solutions containing heavy
metals and cyanide. Plants were observed growing out of a portion of the lagoon. Three
monitoring wells that are 75 feet in depth are located around the lagoon. One downgradient
monitoring well was reported to be vandalized and filled in with beer cans and gravel. The
facility is fenced on three sides, but there is a large hole in the southern fence due to a recent
automobile accident.
Probable Substances of Concern
Based on observations made during the offsite reconnaissance for the PA, the 55-gallon
drums of slag are badly deteriorated and the contents of several drums are spilling black
powdery slag onto the ground. Partially corroded drums were found on the north side of the
warehouse; their contents are unknown. A topographic map of the area shows that the site
slopes toward the northeast, and it is documented that runoff from the site is directed into the
Mosquito River through an outfall pipe. The soil between the outfall pipe and the river was
stained green and is devoid of vegetation. Aerial photographs of the site and information
gathered during the PA indicate that there are 4,321 drums located outdoors. There is no
containment and these drums are in contact with the unpaved ground. The area of stained
soil adjacent to the drums is estimated to be 400 feet by 600 feet. The area of contaminated
soil near the outfall is estimated to be 100 feet long by 10 feet wide. The estimated depth of
the contaminated soil for both areas is 0.5 feet. The combined volume of the two tailings piles
is estimated to be 375 cubic yards with a surface area of 416 square feet.
Geology and Ground Water
Based on information gathered from a United States Geological Survey (USGS) publication,
the native soil for the site and surrounding area is a thin (0 to 2 feet thick) cover of loamy soil.
Beneath this soil lies a thick formation of sand and gravel that is part of the Atlantic Coastal
Plain from the Cretaceous Period. A water table aquifer occurs at a depth of 60 feet below the
surface, although perched water tables exist over small and discontinuous clay lenses at
shallow depths (about 10 feet) throughout the area. Ground water flow in the vicinity of the
site is known to flow east-southeast or toward the Mosquito River.
Case Studies 4/94
page C-12
-------
Figure 1: Wolfram Industries Site Map
(Vandalized)
--" 2
Outfall pipe
Warehouse
MW3 Staine
soil
Heavy
equipment
storage
Parking lot
Potato
farm
Large drum dump
Stained soil
Not to Scale
4/94
Case Studies
page C-13
-------
Ground Water Pathway
According to the municipal water authority, potable water for residents within 4 miles of the site
comes from water reservoirs located 5 miles from the site. A wellhead protection area does
not exist for this region. However, according to a USGS ground water data base, some resi-
dents have their own potable wells screened within a confined sand aquifer at a depth of 300
feet. Groundwater from a shallow perched water table aquifer is used for the irrigation of Mr.
Spuds 4.5-acre potato farm. Some residents are supplied by ground water. They are eight
homes located 0.3 miles from the site and 44 homes at 3.75 miles. This information was
obtained from a USGS computer listing of wells within the county. No information is available
on any well closures due to site contamination.
Surface Water Pathway
The Mosquito River was identified on the topographic map as the closest surface water body
to the site. It lies within 100 feet of the site. Based on information gathered during the offsite
reconnaissance, an outfall pipe from the facility and its associated stained soil area lie adja-
cent to the river bank. The bank of this river is located several feet below the grade of the
site. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) indicates that the site is located
on the 10-year flood plain. On average, the Mosquito River flows at 1,500 cubic feet per
second, according to the USGS Water Resource Atlas for this region. The state fish and
wildlife bureau has confirmed that portions of this river serve as a fishery for catfish and small-
mouth bass and as a habitat for the state-designated endangered species known as the "long-
eared sunfish." In addition, many sport saltwater fish are caught in Harbor Hill Bay located 3
miles to the south. One unmapped wetland (0.1 miles in length) was observed along the river
closest to the site and another (0.4 miles in length) was identified from published wetlands
maps. No known drinking water intakes are located on the Mosquito River.
Soil Exposure Pathway
The PA states that there are no residents, schools, or day care centers located on or within
200 feet of an area of observed soil contamination. A hole in the fence of the facility allows
unauthorized access by children or others. There are no terrestrial sensitive environments
located on any areas of observed contamination. The total population within 1 mile of the site
is 5,850 (based on GEMS data).
Air Migration Pathway
The nearest residence is located 0.24 miles west of the site and prevailing winds come from
the west. No windbreak or covering is associated with the tailings piles.
Case Studies 4/94
page C-14
-------
Figure 2: Surface Water Pathway Map
Site
Extent of salt water
t
N
= fishery
Not to Scale
15-mile target
distance limit
Harbor Hill Bay
4/94
Case Studies
page C-15
-------
SI SAMPLING STRATEGY
Sample ID
Sample Type
Rationale
Total Samples:
Special Sampling Considerations:
Requested Analyses:
Case Studies
pageC-16
10/94
-------
SI SAMPLING STRATEGY
Sample ID
Sample Type
Rationale
Total Samples:
Special Sampling Considerations:
Requested Analyses:
10/94
Case Studies
page C-17
-------
APPENDIX D
SI Data Summary
-------
SI DATA SUMMARY
The investigator may use the SI Data Summary to compile analytical data and non-sampling
information concerning the site. The Data Summary can be a checklist to:
Summarize previous and newly-collected information
Identify factors that have not been fully evaluated
Focus additional data collection efforts
A completed SI Data Summary may facilitate entering data into PREscore or other SI scoring
and HRS documentation tools.
Responses on the SI Data Summary need not be typed; legible handwriting is acceptable.
The Data Summary is not a mandatory requirement for SI reporting; EPA Regional guidelines
may recommend using other mechanisms to summarize information collected during the SI or
to compile previous information about the site.
SI Data Summary entries marked with an asterisk (*) are optional during a focused SI. For
pathways investigated during an expanded SI, all Data Summary entries should be completed.
If necessary, continuation pages to summarize additional analytical results should be
photocopied and included with the Data Summary. A sample location map should be provided
or referenced for all analytical results.
The last page of the Data Summary may be used to describe additional site information
regarding a specific data element. In addition, this page may be used to describe or summarize
site information that has not been collected, is not available, or is not well documented.
-------
SI Data Summary
Site Name
Site Name
EPA Reglon_
Date
Contractor Name or State Office and Address
GENERAL SITE INFORMATION
1. CERCLIS ID No.
Address
County
City
State
Zip Code
Congressional District
2. Owner name
Operator name
Owner address
City
State
Operator address
City
State
3. Type of ownership (check all that apply):
D Private D Federal/Agency
D Other
D State D County D Municipal
Reference(s)
4. Approximate size of property:
5. Latitude " Longitude
acres
6. Site status: D Active D Inactive D Unknown
7. Years of operation: From: to: D Unknown
6. Previous Investigations:
Type Agency/State/Contractor Date
Reference(s).
Reference(s)
Reterence(s)
Reterence(s)
Reference(s).
Reference(s)
Reference(s).
Reference(s)
Reference(s)
Reterence(s)
-------
SI Data Summary Site Name
WASTE SOURCE INFORMATION
1. Waste source types (check all that apply)
D Constituent
D Wastestream (type)
D Landfill
D Drums
D Contaminated soil
D Land treatment
D Tanks or non-drum containers (type)
D Pile (type)
D Surface impoundment (buried)
D Surface impoundment (backfilled)
D Other
Reference(s)
2. Types of wastes (check all that apply)
D Organic chemicals
D Inorganic chemicals
D Municipal wastes
D Radionuclides
D Metals
D Pesticides/Herbicides
D Solvents
D Other
Reference(s)
3. Summarize history of waste disposal operations:
Reference(s)
-------
SI Data Summary Site Name
^ 4. Source characterization (Attach pages to show quantity and calculations.)
Source 1 name: Source type.
Describe source:
Ground water migration containment:
Surface water migration containment:
Air migration (gas and migration) containment:
Physical state of wastes: D Liquid D Solid n Sludge/Slurry DGas D Unknown
Constituent quantity of hazardous substances: (specify units)
Wastestream quantity containing hazardous substances: (specify units)
Volume of source (yd3): Area of source (ft2):
Hazardous substances associated with source 1:
Reference(s)
Source 2 name: Source type.
Describe source:
Ground water migration containment:
Surface water migration containment:
Air migration (gas and migration) containment:
Physical state of wastes: D Liquid D Solid D Sludge/Slurry D Gas D Unknown
Constituent quantity of hazardous substances: (specify units)
Wastestream quantity containing hazardous substances: (specify units)
Volume of source (yd3): Area of Source (ft2):
Hazardous substances associated with source 2:
Reference(s)
-------
SI Data Summary Site Name
CONTINUATION PAGE FOR SOURCE CHARACTERIZATION
Source # Name Source type
Describe source:
Ground water migration containment:
Surface water migration containment:
Air migration (gas and migration) containment:
Physical state of wastes: D Liquid D Solid D Sludge/Slurry DGas D Unknown
Constituent quantity of hazardous substances: (specify units)
Wastestream quantity containing hazardous substances: (specify units)
Volume of source (yd3): Area oi source (ft2):
Hazardous substances associated with source # :
Reference(s)
Source # Name Source type
Describe source:
Ground water migration containment:
Surface water migration containment:
Air migration (gas and migration) containment:
Physical state of wastes: D Liquid D Solid D Sludge/Slurry D Gas D Unknown
Constituent quantity of hazardous substances: (specify units)
Wastestream quantity containing hazardous substances: (specify units)
Volume of source (yd3): Area of source (ft2):
Hazardous substances associated with source # :
Reference(s)
-------
SI Data Summary Site Name
5. Description of removal or remedial activities
If a removal has occurred, identify the removal authority and describe the activities. Specify the
date(s) of the removal.
Reference(s)
-------
SI Data Summary Site Name
GROUND WATER INFORMATION
1. Ground water drinking water use within 4 miles of site sources:
D Municipal D Private D Both D No Drinking Water Use
Reference(s)
2. is ground water contaminated?
D Yes D No D Uncertain but likely D Uncertain but not likely
D Additional sampling required
Is analytical evidence available? D Yes D No Reference(s)
3. is ground water contamination attributable to the site?
D Yes D No D Additional sampling required Reference(s)
4. Are drinking water wells contaminated?
D Yes D No D Uncertain but likely D Uncertain but not likely
d Additional sampling required
Is analytical evidence available? D Yes D No Reference(s)
5.* Net precipitation (HRS Section 3.1.2.2): inches Reference(s)
6. County average number of persons per residence: Reference(s)
7. Discuss general stratigraphy underlying the site. Attach sketch of stratigraphic colun
Reference(s)
8. Using Table GW-1 (next page), summarize geology underlying the site (starting withwr
#1 as closest to ground surface). Indicate if formation is interconnected with overlying formal
-------
Si Data Summary
Site Name
TABLE GW-1: SITE GEOLOGY
NAME OF FORMATION
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
INTER-
CONNECT?
(yes/no)
TYPE OF
MATERIAL
AVERAGE
THICKNESS
(FEET)
HYDRAULIC
CONDUCTIVITY
(CM/SEC)
USED FOR
DRINKING
WATER?
Reference(s)
9.
Does a karst aquifer underlie any site source?
DYes DNo
10. Depth to top of aquifer:
feet
Elevation:
Reference(s)
Reference(s)
11. In the table below, enter the number of people obtaining drinking water from wells located
within 4 miles of the site. For each aquifer, attach population calculation sheets. Key aquifer to
formations listed in Table GW-1.
POPULATION SERVED BY WELLS WITHIN DISTANCE CATERGORIES BY AQUIFER
DISTANCE OF WELL(S)
FROM SITE SOURCES
1/4 mile or less
>1/4 to 1/2 mile
>1/2 to 1 mite
>1 to 2 miles
>2 to 3 miles
>3 to 4 miles
AQUIFER A: INCLUDES
FORMATIONS
AQUIFER B: INCLUDES
FORMATIONS
AQUIFER C: INCLUDES
FORMATIONS
Reference(s)
12. Is ground water from multiple wells blended prior to distribution?
DYes DNo Reference(s)
-------
SI Data Summary Site Name
13. Is ground water blended with surface water?
DYes DNo Reference(s)
Briefly describe:
14. Distance from any Incompletely contained source available to ground water to nearest
drinking water well (HRS Section 3.3.1): feel Reference(s)
15. Briefly describe standby drinking water wells within 4 miles of sources at the site:
Reference(s)
16. Using Table GW-2, summarize ground water analytical results for all sampling Investigations.
Include and identify background ground water sample results.
17.* Ground water resources within 4 miles of site sources (HRS Section 3.3.3):
D Irrigation (5-acre minimum) of commercial food or commercial forage crops
D Commercial livestock watering
D Ingredient in commercial food preparation
D Supply for commercial aquaculture
D Supply for major or designated water recreation area, excluding drinking water use
D Water usable for drinking water but no drinking water wells are within 4 miles
D None of the above
Reference(s)
18. Wellhead protection area (WHPA) within 4 miles of site sources (HRS Section 3.3.4).
D Source with non-zero containment factor value lies within or above WHPA
D Observed ground water contamination attributable to site source(s) lies within WHPA
D WHPA lies within 4 miles of site sources
DNone
Reference(s)
Additional ground water pathway description:
References(s)
10
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-------
SI Data Summary Site Name
SURFACE WATER INFORMATION
Complete this section of the data summary for each watershed If there are multiple
watersheds. Photocopy this page If necessary.
1. Describe surface water migration path from site sources to at least 15 miles downstream.
Attach a sketch of the surface water migration route.
Reference(s)
2. Is surface water contaminated?
D Yes O No n Uncertain but likely D Uncertain but not likely D Additional sampling required
Is analytical evidence available? D Yes D No Reference(s)
3. Is surface water contamination attributable to the site?
D Yes D No D Additional sampling required Reference(s)
4. Floodplaln category In which site sources are located (check all that apply):
D1-year D 10-year 0100-year D 500-year D None Reference(s)
5. Describe flood containment for each source (MRS Section 4.1.2.1.2.2):
Source #1 Flood containment
Source #2 Flood containment
Source #3 Flood'containment
Source # Flood containment
Source # Flood containment
Source # Flood containment
Source # Flood containment
Reference(s)
6. Shortest overland distance to surface water from any source (MRS Section 4.1.2.1.2.1.3):
feet Reference(s)
7.* Size of drainage area (HRS Section 4.4.3): Acres Reference(s)
12
-------
SI Data Summary
Site Name
8.* Describe predominant soil group wfthln the drainage area (HRS Section 4.1.2.1.2.1.2).
Reterence(s)
9.' 2-year 24-hour rainfall (HRS Section 4.1.2.1.2.1.2):
inches
10."Elevation of the bottom of nearest surface water body:
feet above sea level
11 .'Elevation of top of uppermost aquifer:
feet above sea level
Reference(s)
Reference(s)
Reference(s)
12. Predominant type of water body between probable point of entry to surface water and
nearest drinking water Intake:
D River D Lake Reference(s)
13. Identify all drinking water Intakes, fisheries, and sensitive environments within 15 miles
downstream.
TARGET NAME/TYPE
WATER
BODY TYPE
DISTANCE
FROM PPE
FLOW
(CFS)
TARGET
CHARACTERISTICS1
TARGET
SAMPLED?
1lf target is a drinking water intake, provide number of people served by intake.
If target is a fishery, provide species and annual production of human food chain organisms
(pounds per year).
If target is a wetland, specify wetland frontage (in miles). Attach calculation pages.
Reference(s)
14. Is surface water drinking water blended prior to distribution?
D Yes D No Relerence(s)
13
-------
SI Data Summary Site Name
15. Describe any standby drinking water intakes within 15 miles downstream.
Reference(s)
16.*Surface water resources within 15 miles downstream (HRS Section 4.1.2.3.3):
D Irrigation (5-acre minimum) of commercial food or commercial forage crops
D Commercial livestock watering
D Ingredient in commercial food preparation
D Major or designated water recreation area, excluding drinking water use
D Water designated by the state for drinking water use but is not currently used
D Water usable for drinking water but no drinking water intakes within 15 miles downstream
D None of the above
Reference(s)
17. Using Table SW-1, summarize surface water analytical results for all sampling Investigations.
Include and identify background sample results.
14
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-------
SI Data Summary Site Name
SOIL INFORMATION
1. Is surflcial or soil contamination present at the site?
D Yes D No D Uncertain but likely D Uncertain but not likely
D Additional sampling required
is analytical evidence available? D Yes D No Reference(s)
2. Is surflcial or soil contamination attributable to the site?
D Yes D No D Additional sampling required
3. Is surficlal contamination on the property and within 200 feet of a residence, school, daycare
center, or workplace?
D Yes D No D Uncertain but likely D Uncertain but not likely
D Additional sampling required
Is analytical evidence available? D Yes D No Reference(s)
4.* Total area of surflcial contamination (MRS Section 5.2.1.2):
square feet Reference(s)
5.* Attractiveness/accessibility of the areas of observed contamination (HRS Section 5.2.1.1). Check
all that apply:
D Designated recreational area ™
D Used regularly, or accessible and unique recreational area
D Moderately accessible with some use
D Slightly accessible with some use
D Accessible with no use
D Inaccessible with some use
D Inaccessible with no use
Reference(s)
6. Using Table SE-1, summarize analytical results detecting surflcial contamination within 200 feet
of a residence, school, daycare center, or workplace. Include and identify background sample
results.
7. Using Table SE-2, summarize analytical results detecting surficlal contamination within the
boundary of a resource or a terrestrial sensitive environment. Include and identify background
sample results H not listed in Table SE-1.
8. Population within 1-mlle travel distance from site. Do not include populations from Table SE-1.
DISTANCE FROM SITE SOURCES
1/4 mile or less
>1/4 lo 1/2 mile
>1/2 to 1 mile ""•**
POPULATION
Reference(s)
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18
-------
SI Data Summary
Site Name
AIR INFORMATION
1. Is air contamination present at the site?
D Yes D No D Uncertain but likely D Uncertain but not likely
D Additional sampling required
Is analytical evidence available? D Yes D No Reterence(s)
2. Is air contamination attributable to the site?
D Yes D No O Additional sampling required
3. Are populations, sensitive environments, or wetlands exposed to airborne hazardous
substances released from the site?
D Yes D No D Uncertain but likely D Uncertain but not likely
D Additional sampling required
Is analytical evidence available? D Yes D No Reference(s)
4. Evidence of blogas release from any of the following source types at the site:
D Below-ground containers or tanks D Landfill D Buried surface impoundment
Reference(s)
5.* Paniculate migration potential factor value: (HRS Figure 6-2)
6.* Paniculate mobility factor value: (HRS Figure 6-3)
7. Distance from any Incompletely contained source to nearest residence or regularly occupied
area: miles Reference(s)
8. Population within 4 miles of site sources.
DISTANCE FROM SITE SOURCES
0 (within site sources)
1/4 mile or less
>1/4 to 1/2 mile
> 1/2 to 1 mile
>1 to 2 miles
>2 to 3 miles
>3 to 4 miles
POPULATION
Reference(s)
9.* Resources within % mile of site sources (HRS Section 6.3.3):
D Commercial agriculture
D Commercial silviculture
D Major or designated recreation area
D None of the above
Reference(s)
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SI Data Summary Site Name
10. Sensitive environments and wetlands within 4 miles of the site.
NAME/DESCRIPTION/LOCATION OF
SENSITIVE ENVIRONMENT OR
WETLAND
DISTANCE FROM
SITE (MILES)
TYPE OF SENSITIVE
ENVIRONMENT
WETLAND SIZE
(ACRES)
Reference(s)
11. Using Table AIM, summarize air analytical results for all sampling Investigations. Include
and identify background sample results.
20
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Number of people
Name of sens, environment
Wetland acreage
DD D
Number of people
Name of sens, environment
Wetland acreage
DD D
Number of people
Name of sens, environment
Wetland acreage
DD D
Number of people
Name of sens, environment
Wetland acreage
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Number of people
Name of sens, environment
Wetland acreage
DD D
Number of people
Name of sens, environment
Wetland acreage
DD D
Number of people
Name of sens, environment
Wetiand acreage
DD D
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SI Data Summary
Site Name
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND COMMENTS
Reference(s)
22
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