&EPA United S* Environmental Protection Agency Office <* Solid Waste and Emergency Response NUMBER: .Jsso.i-iS/ TITLED Superfund Technology Transfer APPROVAL DATE: DATE: ORIGINATING D FINAL a DRAFT STATUS: (other doeymentsj: OSWER OSWER OSWER VE DIRECTIVE DIRECTIVE Dl ------- SERA United States Environmental Protection Agency Washington. DC 20460 OS WER Directive Initiation Request 1. Directive Number 9380.1-0, 2. Originator Information Name of Contact Person Don White Mail Code WH548-A Office HRSP Telephone Number 475-fifiOO 3. Title Superfund Technology Transfer Program - DRAFT 4. Summary of Directive (Include brief statement of purpose) Outlines the steps OERR and OWPE will take to ensure that Superfund technical and research information will be delivered to the appropriate audiences. Outlines coordination with ORD's Superfund-related technology transfer activities. 5. Keywords Superfund, CERCLA. Technology Transfer. Policv. Procedure 6a. Does this Directive Supersede Previous Directives)? | | Yes [jjj No What directive (number, title) b. Does It Supplement Previous Directives)? Yes No What Directive (number, title) 7.. Draft Level DA- Signed by AA/DAA D B-Si Signed by Office Director C — For Review & Comment In Development This Request Meets OSWER Directives System Format 8. Signatu 9. Name and Title of Approving Offici^ Henry L. .Longest II Date Date OS WER OS WER OS WER DIRECTIVE DIRECTIVE ------- -2- 0 Provide feedback on the effectiveness of the overall Superfund technology transfer program; 0 Coordinate appropriate technology transfer activities conducted by Headquarters at the Regional office; and 0 Establish and maintain a technology transfer network with State hazardous waste management programs. As you can see, these responsibilities may require a significant amount of time. Your Superfund Branch Chief has informally designated a staff person for this position (see attached list.) At this time, we are asking you to carefully review these tasks and responsibilities and officially confirm your Regional Technology Transfer Contact. It is suggested that this person be an experienced Regional staffer who is familiar with the technical issues and the information needs of the Superfund project staff—remedial, removal and enforcement. A detailed description of the Regional offices' roles and responsibilities in the SITE program will be sent for your review in another month; we will be asking for your Regional contact for that program, also. In addition, the Office of the AA for OSWER is currently developing a technology transfer overview plan which will provide a general framework around which individual program technology transfer implementation strategies will be shaped to insure con- sistency and coordination. The Superfund Technology Transfer Strategy will be consistent with this overview plan. The OSWER plan will be available for your review shortly. I would appreciate both your comments on this draft technology transfer document and your regional designees by October 15. If you have further questions, you may call either Don White at (FTS) 475-8600 or Jane Powers (FTS) 382-4668. Thank you for your cooperation and participation. Attachments Addressees; Director, Office of Emergency & Remedial Response, Region II Director, Hazardous Waste Management Division, Region III Director, Air and Waste Management Division, Regions IV, VI, VII & VIII Director, Waste Management Division, Regions I & V Director, Toxics and Waste Management Division, Region IX Director, Hazardous Waste Division, Region X ------- UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY WASHINGTON, D.C. 20460 SEP 16666 OFFICE OF SOLID WASTE AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 MEMORANDUM SUBJECT: Regional Roles in the Superfund Technology Transfer Program Strategy FROM: Henry L. Longest II, Director Office of Emergency and Remedial TO: Addressees The Technology and Community Relations Branch within the Hazardous Response Support Division (HRSD) is preparing a Superfund technology transfer strategy for the remainder of FY86 and FY87. Among other things, it will list the ongoing and planned detailed technical and summary reports to be prepared by OERR and OWPE. It will also list all planned technology transfer activities including seminars, training programs, conference papers, journal articles, etc. A draft of the technology transfer strategy is attached for your review. The strategy is based on the results of the technology transfer needs survey we conducted in the Regional offices this spring and the needs and recommendations of Headquarters' program offices. This draft sets out the roles and responsibilities of HQs and Regional staff for technology transfer activities. Among other things, this draft attempts for the first time to explain in detail what duties the Regional Technology Transfer Contact will have. As outlined in the strategy, the contact would: 0 Act as a clearinghouse for technical information within the the Region; 0 Monitor regional needs for technical information and the appropriate delivery mechanisms and communicate these to OERR; • Work with the Regional library to ensure that staff have knowledge of and access to the hazardous waste collection; 0 Provide feedback to the Superfund Technology Transfer Coordinator on the use and effectiveness of technical reports and technology transfer activities; ------- OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 DRAFT SUPERFUND TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER PROGRAM U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Hazardous Response Support Division Technology and Community Relations Branch August 11, 1986 DRAFT ------- OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 CONTENTS Executive Summary 1 Introduction 2 OERR Technology Transfer Needs Survey 3 Audiences for Superfund Information and Their Specific Information Needs 4 Roles and Responsibilities 5 Standard OERR Technology Transfer Activities and Procedures 6 Technology Transfer Implementation/Action Plan 7 Technology Transfer Program Evaluation and Revision (to be added in second draft) WDR175/018 DRAFT ------- OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 SUPERFUND TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER PROGRAM 1 INTRODUCTION The ongoing implementation of the Superfund program has resulted in an expanding flow of technical information on site remediation. Both research and field experience are providing new data and analysis techniques that are applicable to a wide audience. To be useful, however, this growing body of knowledge must be readily available to those who need it in a style and format that meets their needs. In July 1985, the Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response (OSWER), recognizing the need for technology transfer on hazardous waste management issues, established a Joint OSWER/ORD Technology Transfer Task Force to develop and implement such a program. The purpose of the task force is: ". . .to facilitate the transfer of research and other technical information reflecting current knowledge and research findings so as to make measurable improvements in the performance of OSWER programs and to meet OSWER programmatic goals." In support of OSWER1s ongoing technology transfer efforts, the Office of Emergency and Remedial Response (OERR) has developed this Superfund technology transfer program. This program outlines the steps that OERR and OWPE will take to ensure that Superfund technical and research information will be delivered to the appropriate audiences. It also outlines coordination with ORD's Superfund-related technology transfer activities. • 1.1 Technology Transfer Objectives The objectives of the Superfund technology transfer program are to: o Develop a comprehensive Superfund technology transfer program that will identify audiences and information needs and will establish responsibili- ties and schedules for the delivery of technical information. o Ensure that hazardous waste technology transfer activities are well coordinated among all program components. o Establish an interactive communication process between the users of technical information and those that provide it. DRAFT 1-1 ------- OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 o Establish methods for monitoring, quantifying, and evaluating the effectiveness of technology transfer projects and activities. Methods for achieving these objectives are explained in the following sections. First, the results of the recently com- pleted OERR needs assessment are described in Section 2. Targeted audiences, or user groups, are described in Section 3 along with the most effective mechanisms for providing information to each group. In Section 4, the technology transfer roles and responsibilities of each Superfund program office are outlined. Standard technology transfer activities and procedures to be implemented for all information developed by the Superfund program are presented in Section 5. In Section 6, an action plan is proposed that outlines technology transfer activities planned for the remainder of FY 86 and FY 87. Methods to monitor, quantify, and evaluate the technology transfer program have not yet been developed. When complete, they will be presented in Section 7. 1.2 Users of the Superfund Technology Transfer Program The Superfund technology transfer program will be implemented by the Technology and Community Relations Branch of the Hazardous Response Support Division. A Superfund technology transfer contact will be designated to coordinate all activities outlined in the strategy. OERR has developed this technology transfer program for the entire Superfund program. Thus, all offices producing Superfund materials should agree to adhere to the procedures described in this strategy and should coordinate their Superfund efforts through OERR's technology transfer contact. A consistent, coordinated Superfund technology transfer program that includes OERR, OWPE, ORD, the regional offices, and, where applicable, OSW, will be a key step in enhancing overall program performance. All of the above offices will be asked to designate a Superfund technology transfer contact to work with OERR on these activities. 1.3 Interaction With Other Technology Transfer Programs and Activities Other technology transfer programs currently exist or are in the planning stages. The Superfund technology transfer program is intended to complement and coordinate with these other programs. Significant ongoing activities are briefly outlined below. OSWER has recently developed a technology transfer strategy that outlines a framework for creating other technology transfer programs within OSWER. The Superfund technology DRAFT 1-2 ------- OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 transfer program is consistent with the goals and intent of the OSWER strategy and is designed as an action plan for implementing technology transfer for Superfund. A technology transfer program for the Superfund Innovative Technology Evaluation (SITE) program is now being developed and will be implemented by OERR and ORD. It will be coordinated by the OERR technology transfer contact. It is designed specifically to disseminate results of the SITE program and is actually a subset of the Superfund technology transfer program. ORD technology transfer activities are coordinated through the Center for Environmental Research Information (CERI). CERI and OERR will work together to implement the Superfund technology transfer program. CERI's role and responsibili- ties are discussed in Chapter 4. The ORD/OSWER research committee was established to set research priorities and monitor ORD research activities. A technology transfer subgroup was recently formed to recommend priority technology transfer needs to the research committee for inclusion in future budgets and work plans. This subgroup serves in a review and advisory capacity and will act as a liaison for ORD and OERR on planned research activities. 1.4 Program Implementation The Superfund technology transfer program is now available for review and comment by interested program offices. Once a final program has been developed, a memorandum from the Office of the Director will establish the roles and respon- sibilities of each implementing office. The memorandum will also lay out the standard technology procedures to be followed by each program office. WDR170/015 DRAFT 1-3 ------- OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 2 OERR TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER NEEDS SURVEY As part of its early participation on the OSWER/ORD Technology Transfer Task Force, OERR conducted a needs survey. This survey of EPA and state Superfund staff,and their contractors was developed to determine their technology transfer needs. An analysis of the results, entitled Draft OERR Report on the Results of the Technology Transfer Needs Survey, was prepared in June 1986. It describes the participants' views on available technology transfer products, future technology transfer needs, and preferred delivery mechanisms. 2.1 Needs Survey Methodology The needs survey was conducted through questionnaires and personal interviews with EPA regional Superfund staff, state hazardous waste management staff, and contractors. Partici- pants were asked to rate the utility of currently available information, to rank potential technology transfer products and activities, and to indicate the most effective methods of disseminating information. Questionnaires were mailed to participants, after which a group meeting was held to discuss the questions and to develop a consensus. Individual responses to the survey were also collected at these meetings. Interviews were conducted in EPA Regions I, II, IV, V, IX, X, and in the States of California, Georgia, New Hampshire, and New Jersey. Because of time and budgetary constraints, EPA Regions III, VI, VII, and VIII were sent questionnaires only; no interviews were conducted. In'" addition, questionnaires were mailed to EPA contractors. A total of 137 questionnaires were received by EPA. 2.2 Needs Survey Results Information Needs The needs survey asked those working in the Superfund program to identify the technical information they most need to improve program performance. Table 2-1 indicates the respondents' top five choices of additional technical information. Their responses indicate that site-specific case study information on new alternative and innovative technologies is the most requested material. Each of the top five choices in Table 2-1 indicates that there is a need for information about how technologies are being used and how they can be applied at other Superfund sites. Therefore, future technical studies need to focus on the practical applications of existing and new technologies. DRAFT 2-1 ------- OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 Table 2-1 Most Requested Technology Transfer Products (Based on the Technology Transfer Needs Assessment) 1. Technologies Currently Used at Superfund Sites (Case Studies) 2. Technology Demonstration Projects at Superfund Sites—Soil Washing, Soil Incineration, Soil Aeration, Solidification, and Biological Treatment 3. Site Design Experience with Contaminated Soils 4. Emerging and Innovative Technologies 5. Expanded Analysis of Mobile/Transportable Systems and In-situ Treatment In addition, guidance materials on less clearly established policy issues, such as the relationship between CERCLA and RCRA requirements, and on sampling and cleanup actions (e.g., how much sampling should be done, and how clean a site should be) were also requested. This request for additional guidance is consistent with the survey's rating of current, available information: the RI/FS Guidance Manual was most frequently selected as "very useful" by survey participants. A need for technical information about how to manage specific wastes was also identified. A decision matrix, an expert computer system, or an EPA "response group" were all mentioned during interviews as effective ways to provide such information to those in the field. Overall, participants requested technical information that can be applied to Superfund sites they are working on. Participants were least interested in receiving information that was general in nature or was not perceived as applicable to their ongoing work. The lowest ranked items of potential technology transfer products were: o Treatment capacity studies o Site management practices in foreign countries o Comparison of CERCLA/RCRA wastes o Waste classification systems o Recycling of Superfund wastes DRAFT 2-2 ------- OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 Simply stated, Superfund personnel want more technical information on alternative technologies and how to apply those technologies to their particular sites. Distribution Needs The needs survey found that technical information is currently difficult to find, hard to obtain, and cumbersome to assimilate. Many survey participants were unaware of currently available materials. It became clear that Superfund staff have limited time to search for and review information. As a result they require a technology transfer program that: o Notifies them of the availability of technology information o Provides short abstracts and summaries of available information o Allows easy access to hard copies of detailed technical reports that are relevant to their projects Superfund personnel first need to be notified of available information. The needs survey indicated that bulletins, newsletters, key word indices, and annotated bibliographies were all thought to be effective methods of making users aware of available information. Because computers are not currently used by all regions, a computerized "events bulletin board" would be less effective at this time. Second, the distribution of annotated bibliographies, short report summaries, and abstracts would provide encapsulations of more detailed reports, and enable technical.staff to quickly peruse available literature for the most relevant materials. Summaries need to highlight the applicability of the findings to specific types of hazardous waste sites whenever possible. Participants felt that this was important to help them filter through the reams of reports and technology transfer information that will be available. The third need identified by participants was for access to hard copies of more detailed technical reports and technology transfer materials. The needs survey found that this information is often not readily available to project personnel. Survey participants cited the need for a centralized distribution system, or clearinghouse, for all information. Survey participants were asked to rank the technology transfer activities they would find most useful. The top five activities are shown in Table 2-2. DRAFT 2-3 ------- OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 Table 2-2 Most Requested Technology Transfer Activities (Based on the Technology Transfer Needs Assessment) 1. Superfund Experts Directory (directory of people with expertise in specific technologies) 2. Technology Information Bibliography/Clearinghouse 3. Technology Transfer Newsletter 4. Technology/SITE Case Study Seminars 5. Seminars on Various Technology Transfer Topics The needs survey found that personal contact with EPA experts was an important method by which project staff currently obtain information. It was suggested that this "networking" could be facilitated by providing Superfund personnel with the addresses and phone numbers of key contacts and experts. Another major request from survey participants was for additional training in the form of seminars. Most participants expressed the opinion that large, national, centrally located conferences were not an effective way to disseminate technical information because the regional and state offices lack the money and time to send more than token representatives to these events. Those who attend do not always share the information acquired. In general, seminars and workshops taken to the regional offices were perceived as much more effective. More personnel are able attend, and information can be covered in greater detail. The high ranking of Technology/SITE Case Study Seminars and Seminars on Various Technology Transfer Topics occurred because respondents perceived these as being held in the regions. The needs survey also found that states are not currently receiving much information on Superfund, nor are they receiving training. This is of particular concern as states take on greater responsibilities in hazardous waste management. Methods are needed to tie states into the dissemination of technical information. 2.3 How the Needs Assessment Affected the Technology Transfer Program The Superfund technology transfer program outlined in this document is based on the results of the needs survey. A Draft/WDR175/001 2-4 ------- OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 summary of the activities planned to meet the needs identified in the survey follows. Additional details are provided in Sections 5. and 6. Technical Studies Table 2-1 listed the top five technical studies requested by Superfund staff. Most of these identified needs are being met by studies that are either currently underway or will begin once reauthorization has occurred and funding becomes available. o Technologies Currently Used at Superfund Sites (Case Studies). HRSD is scheduled to begin a series of case studies of technologies currently in use at Superfund sites. Work will start once reauthorization has occurred. o Technology Demonstration Projects at Superfund Sites—Soil Washing, Soil Incineration, Soil Aeration, Solidification, and Biological Treatment. The SITE program purrently being conducted by ORD and OERR will result in demonstrations of innovative and alternative technologies at Superfund sites. In addition, it is likely that more demonstrations will occur as a regular part of the current RI/FS process. Most demonstrations, however, are not expected to begin until after reauthorization has occurred. o Site Design Experience with Contaminated Soils. No specific study has been planned to respond to this identified need. However, a variety of ongoing and planned activities will provide additional information on this topic. HSCD is currently preparing a guidance document on cleanup options applicable to contaminated soils. It is also expected that both the case studies and the SITE program noted above will include additional site design information on contaminated soils. o Emerging and Innovative Technologies. No specific study is being planned in response to this identified need. However, the SITE program will provide additional information on the results of field demonstrations of innovative technologies. Once FY 1987 funding levels are known, the need for additional studies on emerging and innovative technologies will be reviewed. o Expanded Analysis of Mobile/Transportable Systems and In-situ Treatment. Additional information on both of these topics is currently being compiled. Draft/WDRl75/001 2-5 ------- OSWER Directive 9330.1-1 It is expected that both the case studies project and the SITE demonstrations will yield additional information. The agency's Mobile Treatment Unit Task Forces are also examining permitting and regulatory considerations and impediments for mobile/transportable systems. They have recently published Mobile Treatment Technologies for Superfund Wastes, a summary of available treatment technologies and vendors. An appendix to the report, Superfund Treatment Technologies! A Vendor Inventory, provides additional information on vendor capabilities. Technology Transfer Activities The most requested technology transfer activities were previously listed in Table 2-2. The Superfund technology transfer program includes steps to respond to each of these top-ranked items: o Superfund Experts Directory. OERR and ORD will work together to update ORD's current Experts Directory and to assure appropriate distribution. o Technology Information Bibliography/Clearinghouse. A bibliography is currently being prepared by OERR for distribution to all regional and state Superfund staff and contractors. It will include document abstracts. Hazardous waste document collections have been started in regional libraries to provide access to the documents included on the bibliography. o Technology Transfer Newsletter. Steps are currently underway to begin publication of a technology transfer newsletter once reauthorization has occurred. It will be published by OERR in cooperation with ORD. o Technology/SITE Case Study Seminars. No specific seminars have been scheduled to meet this identified need. However, a series of seminars will be conducted in the later stages of the SITE program to share the results. In addition, the results of the proposed case studies project will be reviewed to determine whether a seminar series is appropriate. o Seminars on Various Technology Transfer Topics. ORD is currently completing a series of 10 regional seminars entitled "RCRA/CERCLA Alternative Treatment Technologies." Five additional seminars will be held in FY 87 in five Draft/WDRl75/001 2-6 ------- OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 major metropolitan areas. CERI has also scheduled the following series of three seminars for the remainder of FY 86 and FY 87: Hazardous Waste Combustion Sampling and Analysis. Sessions are scheduled in Philadelphia, Dallas, and Chicago. Permitting Hazardous Waste Incinerators. Sessions are scheduled in Rosemont (Illinois), Dallas, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Philadelphia, and San Francisco. Groundwater Monitoring System Design for Waste Management Facilities. Sessions are scheduled in Boston and Newark. Seminars on additional topics will be developed and scheduled once FY 87 funding levels are known and seminar priorities are established. A list of suggestions received from survey participants is shown in Table 2-3. Proposed actions are also noted. (Table 2-3 will be completed for inclusion in the final report.) A three-tiered information distribution process has been developed in response to the needs identified through the interviews and questionnaires. 1. Notify: A notification system will be established to make all Superfund personnel aware of available materials. 2. Summarize; Summaries of all reports and technical materials will be provided for project staff to quickly review. 3. Distribute; All Superfund informational materials will be made readily available to those in the field. A further explanation of this networking and distribution process is contained in Section 5. WDR175/001 Draft/WDRl75/001 2-7 ------- OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 3 AUDIENCES FOR SUPERFUND INFORMATION AND THEIR SPECIFIC INFORMATION NEEDS The audiences for technical information are many and varied. This section briefly discusses the information needs for each major user group. 3.1 EPA Regional and State Superfund Staff The primary audiences for technical information are the managers of Superfund cleanup activities who supervise the work of contractors and potentially responsible parties (PRPs). This group includes both program and project managers, each with specific information needs. Because most of the technical work is performed by contractors, Superfund staff must be educated consumers of technical services. They must have ready access to both summary and detailed information. Program Managers Program managers are responsible for assuring that EPA requirements and policy are being implemented by their staff. Most cleanup decisions are initially made by project staff; program managers need to understand how these decisions were reached and how they relate to EPA policy and regulations. Primary needs for this group include copies of all EPA guidance documents, summary materials, and information abstracts. The needs survey indicated that program managers are interested in receiving summary materials rather than detailed technical reports. This is consistent with their role as reviewers and decisionmakers. Program managers also place a high value on national conferences and seminars as an effective way to receive technical and policy information. Project Managers Project managers include removal and enforcement staff. They need information that can be immediately applied to their particular sites. The needs survey established that time is a limited resource for project managers; they need to be able to quickly find relevant information. Informa- tion not relevant to their immediate needs is likely to be ignored. The three-tiered information distribution process cited in Section 2.3 is very important to project managers. They must be notified of the information that is available, while being able to quickly differentiate between what is relevant and what is not. This group also needs training in a variety of technical subjects. The needs survey established that regional DRAFT 3-1 ------- OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 training programs are thought to be most useful. Another finding was that many project managers are relatively inexperienced. More than one-half of the respondents had spent 2 years or less in the program. This accentuates the importance of comprehensive training programs for project managers. State Considerations During the needs survey, state personnel expressed concern that they do not receive most Superfund information. Most state participants expressed a desire to be tied into the Superfund technology transfer program. Consideration should be given to including the states in the dissemination of all program materials. 3.2 EPA Headquarters Staff Staff involved in policy development and implementation and remediation planning and decisionmaking must have access to appropriate technical information. All major program offices should receive technical resource materials so that they may easily access relevant information. The OSWER Assistant Administrator's Office, ORD, OWPE, and OSW must all receive notification of Superfund technical information that is available or under development. Summary information should also be circulated to these groups. They particularly need to be aware of technical information being generated by other programs and policy guidance being issued that affect their programs. It is also important that the Superfund technology transfer contact be aware of Superfund-related technical information and technology transfer activities planned by these offices. This two-way communication will ensure that technical information reaches all those who need it. The Office of External Affairs (OEA) needs to receive copies of all materials that are available to the public. They also need to receive notification materials so that they can be apprised of ongoing activities. 3.3 Other Federal Agencies Other federal agencies that have a major interest in Superfund-generated materials include the Army Corps of Engineers (Corps), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and the Department of Defense. They require both technical and policy materials at both the management and staff level. A Superfund technology transfer contact should be established in each of these agencies to DRAFT 3-2 ------- OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 ensure that applicable technical information can flow back and forth. 3.4 Engineering Community In general, the professional engineering community requires the most detailed level of technical information since they conduct the site investigations and evaluate and design the remedial activities. Along with EPA regional and state Superfund staffs, this user group needs detailed technical information as. well as appropriate guidance and policy documents. Because this group often guides EPA's project managers through the selection of cleanup alternatives, the inclusion of contractors in technical training programs should also be considered. A networking system using both personal contact with major agency contractors and contact with professional and trade associations will be developed. 3.5 Public The public can be divided into three categories: (1) the general public, (2) site-specific communities, and (3) environmental and other interest groups. The general public should be aware of major program developments and their effects on Superfund. However, most of this notifica- tion will be handled through news releases rather than product distribution. Site-specific communities will be made aware of program information through the community relations program and the regional community relations coprdinators. The technology transfer contacts will provide copies of materials to headquarters, regional, and state community relations coordinators for use at appropriate sites. Environmental and other public interest groups need both technical and policy information. A carefully coordinated networking system will be established to ensure that the major organizations routinely receive appropriate technology transfer products. Contact with these groups will be coordinated with the Office of External Affairs, the Superfund community relations staff, and the Assistant Administrator's office. It may be appropriate to ask each of the major environmental and public interest groups to identify a contact person to receive technology transfer information. 3.6 Other Audiences Clean Sites, Inc., will have an interest in most Superfund- generated information, including both technical guidance and policy documents. As other audiences are identified, their information needs will be identified. WDR175/003 DRAFT 3-3 ------- OSWEP Directive 9380.1-1 4 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The Superfund technology transfer program will involve many different offices within EPA Headquarters and in the regions. Primary responsibility for implementation will rest with OERR and OWPE. Coordination with ORD's wide range of activities will also be critical to the program's success. This section describes how these offices will interact and discusses contact points, networking arrangements, and communication flow. Once this draft program has been reviewed and discussed with the respective offices, final roles and responsibilities will be determined. 4.1 Headquarters Staff OERR OERR will coordinate implementation of the Superfund technology transfer program. A technology transfer coordinator and informal implementation group will be established under the Technology and Community Relations Branch (TCRB) of the Hazardous Response Support Division (HRSD). The group will be managed by the technology transfer coordinator. The technology transfer group will be made up of representatives from OWPE, HRSD, HSCD, ERD, PAS, and the Office of the Director. TCRB will provide staff and contractor assistance to the group. The technology transfer group will be responsible for coordinating, overseeing, and implementing the Superfund technology transfer program. The technology transfer coordinator will also act as a liaison between regional technology transfer contacts and other EPA offices involved with the program. The coordinator will also be OERR's representative to the technology transfer task force and to the research committee's technology transfer subgroup. All technical materials prepared under the Superfund program will pass through the Superfund technology transfer group for possible inclusion in the technology transfer program. The group will implement the action plan described in Section 6. The technology transfer group will assure that materials produced for the Superfund program are appropriately reviewed by other offices within OERR. All information resource materials will be distributed by CERI in coordination with OERR. The technology transfer group will assure that all appropriate offices receive copies of information resource materials. DRAFT 4-1 ------- OSWER Directive 93B0.1-1 Policy Analysis Staff (PAS) The PAS will be kept apprised of all technical product and activity development. The technology transfer coordinator will brief PAS periodically on the status of technology transfer activities. Copies of all technical reports and technology transfer materials will be distributed to PAS. OERR Director's Office The Director of OERR will be apprised of all technology transfer activities through the Technology and Community Relations Branch weekly activities report. All materials will also be routed to the Director's office before final distribution. HSCD HSCD will prepare a variety of remedial-related technical reports and technology transfer products such as the ROD updates. OERR and ORD will assist with distribution as appropriate. The Superfund technology transfer coordinator will assure that copies of all technical reports and technology transfer products prepared by other offices are distributed to HSCD. Emergency Response Division (ERD) ERD will be responsible for preparation of removal-related technical information and technology transfer products. OERR and ORD can assist with distribution as appropriate. ERD staff also must receive summary information and technical reports on alternative technologies and other remedial actions that have an impact on or application to the removal program. Office of External Affairs (PEA) OEA will review all information intended for distribution to the general public. OERR will provide copies of all materials intended for external distribution to OEA. Office of the Assistant Administrator (OSWER) The Assistant Administrator's office will be informed of all technology transfer activities. Copies of all materials will be routed to the AA's office. Office of Waste Programs Enforcement (OWPE) OWPE has primary responsibility for enforcement policy, guidance, and information. As a result, they will be a major participant in the Superfund technology transfer DRAFT 4-2 ------- OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 program. Their Superfund-related technology transfer activities will be coordinated with Superfund's technology transfer coordinator. OERR will ensure that all program-wide technology transfer materials include appropriate input from OV7PE. Technical reports and related documents generated by OWPE will follow the standard procedures outlined in Section 5. Office of Solid Waste (OSW) With the increasing interaction between RCRA and CERCLA, careful coordination of OERR and OSW technology transfer activities is needed. The Superfund technology transfer coordinator will work closely with his/her counterpart at OSW to assure adequate coordination. Each program will inform the other of upcoming research, technical reports, and technology transfer activities. Opportunities to maximize the interface between the programs, while avoiding duplication of effort, will be sought. OSW will be provided with copies of all Superfund technical reports and technology transfer products. 4.2 Office of Research and Development Coordination between OERR and ORD is an important element of the Superfund technology transfer program. Much of the research and technical data to be distributed will be generated by ORD. In addition, many of the technology transfer activities, such as seminars and training programs, will be conducted by ORD. Thus, coordination of ORD's on'going participation in the overall Superfund technology transfer program will be key to the program's success. CERI will be the focal point of technology transfer coordination within ORD and will coordinate all Superfund- related technology transfer activities with OERR. In addition to its coordination function, CERI will track Superfund-related research and technical reports being conducted by ORD and will prepare technology transfer products to accompany the ORD reports. CERI will also play a major role in the distribution of Superfund technology transfer materials. ORD document numbers will be assigned to each Superfund technical document. A comprehensive mailing list, keyed to specific user groups, will be initially developed by OERR (in cooperation with CERI) and maintained by CERI. CERI will coordinate bulk printing and distribution of all Superfund technical documents and technology transfer products. (Joint OERR/ORD technology transfer activities for the SITE program are outlined in the SITE technology transfer strategy.) DRAFT 4-3 ------- OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 4.3 Office of Information Resources Management (OIRM) OIRM has established hazardous waste document collections in each of the regional libraries and at headquarters. These collections are repositories for all Superfund information materials. The regional libraries will notify regional staff of the availability of information. The regional technology transfer contacts will monitor the libraries to assure that information is available. As described above, ORD document numbers will be used to catalog all materials in the hazardous waste collection. OIRM will produce mini-abstracts for use in computer-based systems. These mini-abstracts will be based on the abstracts and summaries accompanying each document. OERR, OWPE, and ORD will be responsible for periodic updates of Superfund information materials maintained by OIRM. 4.4 Regional Staff A regional technology transfer contact will be designated in each region. These contacts will: o Act as a clearinghouse for technical information within the region o Monitor the region's needs for technical information and the appropriate delivery mechanisms and communicate these to OERR o Work with the regional library to ensure that staff have knowledge of and access to the hazardous waste collection o Provide feedback to the Superfund technology transfer coordinator on the use and effectiveness of technical reports and technology transfer activities o Provide feedback on the effectiveness of the overall Superfund technology transfer program o Coordinate appropriate technology transfer activities conducted by headquarters or the regional office o Establish and maintain a technology transfer network with state hazardous waste management . programs The regional technology transfer contact is expected to require a significant amount of time to complete the above DRAFT 4-4 ------- OSV7ER Directive 9380.1-1 tasks. It is recommended that the regional technology transfer contact be an experienced regional project manager who is familiar with the technical issues and the needs of Superfund project staff. The support and participation of the regional technology transfer contacts and their manage- ment of regional training programs and other activities will also be needed to successfully implement this technology transfer program. The regional office Superfund management will be routinely informed of activities being planned and initiated under the technology transfer program. Close interaction between the regional technology transfer contact, the regional office, and OERR is strongly encouraged. For instance, the Superfund technology transfer coordinator will conduct frequent (e.g., monthly) telephone briefings with the regions. Regional libraries will create hazardous waste document collections. These collections will maintain two copies of all information materials for immediate access by regional personnel. They will also arrange to obtain, through CERI or NTIS, any materials requested by regional personnel. WDR175/008 DRAFT 4-5 ------- OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 5 STANDARD OERR TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER ACTIVITIES AND PROCEDURES As discussed in Section 2, the three-tiered information distribution process developed to address the primary needs of the regions is: 1. Notify—Superfund staff must know what information is available and how to obtain it. A comprehensive, coordinated notification process will be implemented. 2. Summarize—Staff must be able to easily determine which information is useful to them and which is not. Summaries of Superfund program information will be produced. 3. Distribute—Hard copies of program materials must be readily available to those seeking the information. A broad-based, comprehensive distribution system will accomplish this. The Superfund technology transfer group will implement the above information distribution process. The group will also establish the tracking and reporting systems listed below: 1. A tracking system for all ongoing Superfund research, technical guidance documents, and technical reports will be maintained. The proposed content, due date, and contact person will be listed. 2/ A semi-annual list and schedule of all Superfund technology transfer products and activities will be produced and distributed. Standard activities and procedures to implement the information distribution system are outlined below. 5.1 Notification Activities Several activities will be conducted for each information product developed by the Superfund program. These activities will be designed to notify all appropriate user groups of the existence of Superfund information. Notification will always include personal contacts and sources through which additional information can be obtained. The following notification activities are planned: 1. Enter documents and products into an annotated bibliography—An annotated bibliography of all available program materials will be maintained by CERI. For technical documents produced by OERR and OWPE, the Superfund technology transfer group will develop DRAFT 5-1 ------- OSWER Directive 9330.1-1 annotated descriptions. (ORD will prepare annotated descriptions for all ORD products.) Annotating will be drawn from abstracts developed by the authors of the materials. CERI will distribute the annotated bibliographies, indexed by key topics, to all user groups on a regular basis. 2. Place notice of new available information in the technology transfer newsletter—The technology transfer newsletter will include descriptions of new reports, technology transfer activities for ongoing projects, and notification of new studies and research projects. As discussed in Section 6, this newsletter will be prepared by the Superfund technology transfer group and will be disseminated to all appropriate user groups. 3. Issue press advisories about new items—Press advisories will be issued to trade newsletters and journals (e.g., Inside EPA, Hazardous Materials Intelligence Report, Hazardous Waste Report) concerning all new research and technical documents and appropriate technology transfer activities. 4. Notify regional contacts about products—Frequent telephone contact will occur between the Superfund technology transfer coordinator and the regional technology transfer contacts. During these discussions, the regional contact will be apprised of all new products. Regional Superfund management will also be briefed on new information and activities. 5.2 Summarization Activities To make the assimilation of material easier, and to help project personnel determine which information is relevant to their projects, summaries of all Superfund documents and activities, Including technical reports, technical guidance and policy documents, decisionmaking aids, and training programs, will be developed by the authors of these materials. It is expected that this will frequently be done by contractors as part of their efforts to produce the technical documents. Two types of summary items will be prepared: 1. Summary Abstracts—Summary abstracts will not exceed two paragraphs in length. They will summarize the information contained in the original report, document, or activity and will briefly discuss the item's application to Superfund-related issues, problems, or site-specific application. These abstracts will be used in annotated bibliographies and are intended to allow others to DRAFT 5-2 ------- OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 quickly review the item to determine whether it is applicable to their needs. Abstracts will be submitted by the authors of.all materials to the Superfund technology transfer coordinator. 2. Technical Executive Summaries/Topical Briefs—For all major reports and documents, the author or originating office will prepare a technical executive summary or topical brief. In general, these summaries should not exceed four pages in length. These executive summaries will include a description of the product or activity, the final results, and all major conclusions and recommendations. They will be submitted to the Superfund technology transfer coordinator, who will disseminate them (via CERI) to the appropriate user groups. Executive summaries will also include names of individuals that readers can contact for additional information. 5.3 Distribution Activities A standard procedure will be followed for the distribution of all Superfund technical materials. The Superfund technology transfer group will have overall responsibility for information distribution. They will rely heavily on the assistance of CERI for printing and mailing of materials. The technology transfer coordinator will direct all distribution activities. OERR and OWPE materials available for distribution, i.e., technical reports, executive summaries, etc., will be submitted to the technology transfer coordinator. The coordinator, in concert with the originating office, will determine printing needs, targeted audience, and distribution lists. The coordinator will then forward the materials to CERI for printing and distribution. (CERI will also be responsible for distribution of ORD materials as is the current practice.) CERI will maintain the Superfund technology transfer mailing list after its initial development by OERR. In general, CERI will distribute materials to all user groups, including OIRM and the regional libraries. On a case-by-case basis, the Superfund technology transfer group may take responsibility for distribution to certain user groups, e.g., some materials may be distributed directly from the regional technology transfer contacts to their state counterparts. The technology transfer group will: o . Assure that the abstracts and executive summaries, or topical briefs, are clear and concise o Obtain ORD document numbers DRAFT • 5-3 ------- OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 o Incorporate the materials into the annotated bibliography maintained by CERI o Determine the intended audience and appropriate delivery technique for each report in consultation with the author, program office, and/or CERI o Incorporate appropriate materials into the technology transfer newsletter o Issue press advisories announcing the availability of new materials (in cooperation with OEA) o Incorporate briefings on these items into regularly conducted phone conversations with regional contacts and agency management o Initiate appropriate technology transfer activities, including notification and dissemination of materials, coordination of training seminars, and preparation of additional required activities such as journal articles and conference papers The Superfund technology transfer group will be responsible for distributing all program materials to other headquarters offices. In consultation with CERI, the Superfund technology transfer group will determine which user groups should receive the materials and establish appropriate dissemination techniques. WDR175/009 DRAFT 5-4 ------- OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 6 TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER IMPLEMENTATION/ACTION PLAN This action plan outlines the technology transfer activities and technical studies that comprise the Superfund technology transfer program for FY 1986-87. Tables 6-1 and 6-2 }ist the activities currently underway or planned to be completed during that timeframe. They also list activities that were identified as a high priority in the needs survey but for which no current action is planned. It is expected that these items will be reviewed once FY 1987 appropriations are known, and steps will be taken to meet the identified needs. Each table identifies primary audiences, expected activities, staff responsibilities, and schedules for each expected technology transfer product. 6.1 Current Technology Transfer Products A variety of technology transfer activities are currently scheduled to occur during FY 1986-87. These activities have program-wide applicability, pulling together information from a wide variety of available sources. They include both activities identified during the regional needs survey and activities to meet needs identified by the Superfund tech- nology transfer group and CERI. Some of these activities, such as the bibliography and the alternative technologies fact sheet, are currently underway. Others will be started once reauthorization has occurred. (Additional technology transfer activities planned by OWPE, HSCD, ERD, and PAS will be added based on information gained from each program office.) When FY 1987 funding allocations are known, it is expected that additional technology transfer activities will be added. 6.2 Current Technical Studies Technical studies planned for the remainder of FY 86 and the beginning of FY 87 are listed in Table 6-2. All of these, with the exception of the Recycling/Waste Exchange, were identified as high-priority items during the needs survey. (Additional studies to be conducted by HSCD, ERD, PAS, and OWPE will be added based on discussions with those program offices.) Preparation of conference papers and journal articles will be an important element of the Superfund technology transfer program. Often, it is possible at the beginning of a technical study to identify topics for articles or papers. This is particularly true for studies that evaluate a range of generic alternatives, such as a report on alternatives to treating groundwater contamination. DRAFT 6-1 ------- OSWER Directive 9380.-1-1 The originating office should review each new technical report and identify possible journal articles or conference papers. Specific conferences and publications should be targeted, and this information should be included in the tracking system described in Section 5. In some instances, the outcome of the research or study must be known before the need for papers or articles can be iden- tified. This is particularly true for research projects or demonstrations where the success of the outcome is unknown. In these instances, the originating office should identify the need for papers and articles as soon as feasible and inform the Superfund technology transfer group of their plans. WDR175/017 DRAFT 6-2 ------- OSWER . 1-1 Table 6-1 Action Plan for Current Technology Transfer Activities Products Primary Audience Technology Transfer Activities Responsibilities Schedule Technology Transfer Newsletter EPA/State Superfund Staff EPA Headquarters Other Federal Agencies Engineering Community Professional/Academic Community • .Environmental and Other Interest Group* Clean Sites, Inc. Information fro» other technology transfer activities and technical studies will be condensed Into easy reference Material. The newsletter will provide short encap- sulations of current projects, schedules, and references for additional Information. It will be 2 to 4 pages In length. The Superfund technology transfer group will develop the newsletter. The comprehensive Balling list maintained by CERI will be used to mall the newsletter. CERI will distribute the newsletter. The newsletter will be produced bimonthly. The first Issue will be produced In December 1986. Annotated Bibliography of Important Technical Documents EPA/State Superfund Staff EPA Headquarters Other Federal Agencies Engineering Community Professional/Academic Community Environmental and other Interest Groups Clean Sites, Inc. An annotated bibliography, with 3- to 5-sentence descriptions of each Item and Indexed by key terms, will be compiled. An Initial list of Important documents will be developed for those technical documents that are most Important to those In the field. This list will be the base upon which a more extensive bibliography will be developed during FY 87. The Superfund technology transfer group will develop the annotated bibliography of program Information In consultation with ORD. CERI will use the comprehensive mailing list to distribute the bibliography. The annotated bibliography of the program Information will be completed by October 1986. Superfund Expert* Directory EPA/State Superfund Staff EPA Headquarters Other Federal Agencies Engineering Community Pro fesslonal/Academic Community Clean Site*, Inc. A directory of EPA experts, those knowledge- able in specific technical areas or about specific technologies. Is currently being developed by OERR and ORD. This list will provide personal contacts to enable those working In the field to obtain Information on different topics and answers to questions about technologies and technical Issues. This will aid the networking that is now apparently the most common method of locating needed Information. OERR and ORD will develop this directory jointly. Once the list of experts Is compiled and reviewed, CERI will publish the list and distribute It to the user groups through the comprehensive mailing list. The directory of Superfund experts will be Issued In October 1986. It will be updated semlannually. Seminars on Various Technology Transfer Topics EPA/State Superfund Staff Other Federal Agencies Engineering Community A series of seminars/training courses 1* being developed by ORD and CERI, with the assistance of the Superfund technology transfer group. These seminars will travel to the regions to enable more EPA and state program staff to attend. ORD and CERI will coordinate the development of the seminar series. OERR and OWE will provide support to ORD and feedback on how the seminars are being received. Training seminars will occur throughout the remainder of FT 86-87. (A detailed list will be Included in the final program document.) Alternative Technology Slid* Presentation EPA State Superfund Staff EPA Headquarters Other Federal Agencies Engineering Community Professional/Academic Community Public Clean Sites, Inc. This slide presentation has been developed by OERR and designed to present bow EPA Is applying alternative technologies at Superfund sites, and what considerations must be taken Into account with the use of alternative technologies. The presentation Is designed to be versatile for use with different audiences. Different "modules" have been developed for different levels of complexity. OERR will make this presenta- tion as frequently as speaking engagements can be arranged. Superfund staff will make this presentation to many audiences. The slldepresentatlon is designed to be given by different people; others will be encouraged to use the presen- tation whenever It Is appropriate. The slide presentation Is expected to be used throughout FT 87 and updated as necessary. ------- Table 6-1 (continued) OSWER Directive 9380.1-1 Products Priam? Audience Technology Transfer Activities Responsibilities Schedule Alternative Technologies Fact Sheet EPA/State Superfund Staff (for distribution to others) Other Federal Agencies Profess1onal/Academic Community Public A 6-page fact sheet summarizing the application of alternative technologies ' Is being developed for the general public and others concerned with EPA's application of alternative technologies. Additional 1* to 2-page fact sheets describing Indi- vidual technologies are also scheduled. OERR's technology transfer group It now completing this fact sheet. They will distribute It to the regions, OEA, and the community relations coordinators. Additional fact sheets will be prepared by OERR and OWE. The first two fact sheets (a general fact sheet and an Incineration fact sheet) will be available for public distribu- tion In October 1986. Two others are scheduled In early FY 87. Rod Workshops EPA/State Superfund Staff EPA Headquarters Other Federal Agencies This workshop/seminar has been developed and used to Instruct those who have responsibilities Involving RODs on now the documents Bust be prepared. Several workshops have been conducted at central locations. HSCD has developed the workshop and will continue to conduct It. The Superfund technology transfer group will use notification techniques to assure that project personnel are aware of opportunities to receive this training. Schedules for additional workshops workshops are unspecified at this tine. Additional workshops are expected to be conducted In FY 87. NOTE:Additional materials will be added based on discussions with program offices. HDR17S/01S ------- OSWER Directiv 80.1-1 Table 6-2 Action Plan for Current Technical Studies Technical Stud? Primary Audience Technology Transfer Activities Responsibilities Schedule Technologies Currently Dsed at Superfund Studies/Case Studies EPA/State Superfund Staff ' EPA Headquarters: OERR, OSNER/AA's office, ODD, OHPE, OSW Other Federal Agencies Engineering Community Professional Academic Community Clean Sites, Inc. Case studies of technologies that have been used at Superfund sites and how well they have worked will be produced. A contractor has been selected to prepare the case studies once funding has been Identified. In addition to a report document, the case studies nay serve as the basis of a series of seminars, conference presentations, or journal articles. The HRSD contractor will be respon- sible -for the preparation of the case studies. Management will occur through HRSD. CERI will distribute. Unspecified at this tine. Technology Demonstration Projects at Superfund Sites (SITE) EPA/State Superfund Staff EPA Headquarters: OCRR, OSHER/AA'S office, ORD, OHPE, OEA, OSH Other Federal Agencies Engineering Community Professional/Academic Comounlty Environmental and Other Interest Groups Clean Sites, Inc. The Superfund Innovative Technology Evaluation (SITE) program has been established to demonstrate promising alternative technologies at Superfund sites. A separate technology transfer strategy has been developed by OERR: SITE Technology Transfer Strategy. A broad-based dissemination effort is planned for results of these demonstration projects. OERR has established a technology transfer group under the Technology and Community Relations Branch of the Hazardous Response Support Division, which has prime responsibility for Implementing the SITE technology transfer program. Results from the first demonstration projects can be expected In FY 87. Recycling/Haste Exchange EPA/State Superfund SUff EPA Headquarters Other Federal Agencies Engineering Community Professional/Academic Community Clean Sltea, Inc. This study evaluates the potential for recycling Superfund hazardous waste; the study is currently underway.. When it is completed, the results will be communicated to those responsible for selecting and implementing remedial actions at Superfund sites. If the results of the study arm positive, proactive technology transfer activities will be initiated to advocate the recycling of hazardous waste from Superfund sites. This will involve the publication of journal articles, conference presentations, and training seminars. HSCD will be responsible for Implementing appropriate tech- nology transfer activities. The project is conducted by a contractor for HRSD. The study is expected to be completed in FY 87. Guidance on Groundwater Contamination EPA/State Superfund Staff EPA Headquarters: OERR, OSWER/AA's office, ORD, OHPE, OSH Other Federal Agencies Engineering Community Environmental and other Interest Groups Clean Sites, Inc. This guidance Is Intended to set forth the policy for selecting performance criteria for remedial actions addressing groundwater contamination. Hide dissemination to those responsible for the selection and imple- mentation of Superfund remedial activities will be required. Direct distribution of this document will be implemented. In addition, techniques to Inform user groups of significant policy considerations will be used: training seminars, policy memorandums, etc. HSCD will submit the completed guidance document to the Superfund technology transfer group. OERR In coordination with CERI, will implement the distribution of the document. The Superfund technology transfer group will develop other technology transfer activities in conjunction with HSCD. The final guidance will be distributed in October 1986. Guidance on Soil Contamination EPA/State Superfund Staff EPA Headquarters: OERR, OSWER/AA's office, ORD, OHPE, OSH Other Federal Agencies Engineering Community Environmental and other Interest Groups Clean Sites, Inc. This guidance is Intended to establish options for source control of contaminated soils} a range of acceptable options will be set forth. Hide dissemination to those responsible for the selection and implemen- tation of Superfund remedial activities will be required. Direct distribution of this document will be Implemented. Techniques to Inform user groups of significant policy considerations will be used: training HSCD will submit the completed guidance document to the Superfund technology transfer group. CERI will implement the distribution of the document. The Superfund tech- nology transfer group will develop'-*^ other teclinology transfer activities In consultation with HSCD. The final guidance will be distributed In December 1986 ------- |