Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
ECOMMENDED ANNUAL O&M /REMEDY EVALUATION CHECKLIS
Introduction and Purpose
Effective operation and maintenance (O&M) at Superfund sites generally is critical to ensure that remedies remain
protective of human health and the environment.
The recommended Annual O&M Remedy Evaluation Checklist has been designed to help the Remedial Project
Manager (RPM) capture data routinely collected during O&M in a way that can better evaluate the efficiency and
effectiveness of the remedial action. This recommended checklist may also be used to evaluate an operating
remedy prior to transferring the site to the State for O&M. In addition, remedy performance summarized using
this recommended checklist can be used to communicate remedy progress to the local community, highlight
potential issues before they become problems and help the RPM complete five-year reviews more efficiently.
The information that you collect using this recommended form should help you answer the following questions:
• Is the remedy achieving the remedial action objectives (RAOs), maintaining cleanup goals and/or achieving
technology-specific performance goals?
• If the remedy is not achieving the established objectives and goals, what must I do to correct this and how
can I document this?
• If the remedy is achieving the performance goals, objectives and performance standards, are there any
opportunities to optimize the remedy to make it work more efficiently?
This recommended checklist is intended to be completed annually. It is recommended that any data that you use
to complete this evaluation be attached to the checklist, as this will make completing the next year's evaluation
easier.
This recommended checklist does not recommend the level of review carried out in the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) five-year review process. However the recommended checklist contains review elements
that are consistent with a five-year review process.
Instructions:
The recommended checklist is in Microsoft Word and was designed to be completed electronically. Most questions
involve a short answer, yes/no response or simply checking the box. Questions that involve a short answer will
have an expandable text box. For responses that ask to you to "select one," please double click on "select one"
and choose the correct answer. If the information is not available for a particular question, please indicate this
with a N/A. A site visit is strongly encouraged, but not required prior to completing the recommended checklist.
1. This evaluation is intended to be completed yearly once O&M activities have begun at a site and can be stored
and maintained in an electronic format.
2. For large complex sites, consider completing a separate checklist for each Operable Unit (OU).
3. This evaluation should be based on information and documentation (e.g., O&M reports and monitoring data)
that is readily available to the RPM.
4. Section VIII, "Technical Data and Remedy Performance," provides specific instructions regarding what data
and information are important for this section. Data entered in Section VIII are used to evaluate the specific
technology used in that remedial action (RA). Please note: Section VIII, Appendix E, Other Remedy
Types/Components was designed to be used by the RPM for the annual review of O&M remedies and remedy
components that are not addressed in Appendices A through D or by the separate Recommended Annual O&M
Remedy Evaluation Checklist for Contaminated Sediment Remedies, OSWER #9355.0-118.
5. When you have completed the recommended checklist, please sign and date page 1 and place the completed
document in the site file. Additionally, we recommend that you save the completed checklist electronically for
use in completing the next year's evaluation.
Generally, including the Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist in the site repository can provide
the community with information about O&M status and remedy performance and can demonstrate that the Region
is tracking performance to ensure that the remedy remains protective.
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
Acronym List
AS
CSM
GAC
ICs
LEL
LIRA
MNA
NPL
O&F
O&M
OSHA
OU
Air Sparging
Conceptual Site Model
Granular Activated Carbon
Institutional Controls
Lower Explosive Limit
Long-Term Response Action
Monitored Natural Attenuation
National Priorities List
Operational and Functional
Operation and Maintenance
Occupational Safety and Health
Administration
Operable Unit
PCOR
PRGs
PRP
RAO
ROD
RPM
RSE
SVE
TI Waivers
USAGE
VEB
VOCs
Preliminary Close Out Report
Preliminary Remediation Goals
Potentially Responsible Party
Remedial Action Objective
Record of Decision
Remedial Project Manager
Remediation System Evaluation
Soil Vapor Extraction
Technical Impracticability Waivers
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Vertical Engineered Barrier
Volatile Organic Compounds
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
RECOMMENDED ANNUAL O&M /REMEDY EVALUATION CHECKLIST
Please save electronically and send this completed checklist and any attachments to the site file and site repository.
ra
RPM
S AND APPROV
RPM (If appropriate)
Name:
Name:
Telephone:
Telephone:
Signature:
Date:
Signature:
Date:
State Contact (if appropriate)
Name:
Telephone:
Signature:
II. GENERAL SITE INFORMATION
Site Name:
Date:
State:
Period Covered:
to
EPA Site ID:
Site Lead:
(Select one)
Other, specify:
Organization responsible for O&M operations: (Select one)
Other, specify:
Site Remedy Components (ref. Section VIII):
Preliminary Close Out Report (PCOR) date:
Operational & Functional (O&F) date:
Last five-year review date:
NPL deletion date:
Did you make a site visit during this review?
D Yes
D No
Date:
If no, why:
Date of next planned checklist evaluation:
Location of Administrative Record/Site Files:
During the site visit, was monitoring equipment operational?
D Yes D No D N/A
Please elaborate:
D N/A D Yes D No
Has an Optimization Study been conducted at the site?
Date:
If not, is one planned?
List all site events since the last evaluation that impact or may impact remedy performance.
Chronology of events since last report (e.g., site visits, receipt of reports, equipment failures, shutdowns, vandalism,
storm events):
Elaborate on significant site events or visits to site:
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
III. DOCUMENTS AND RECORD
Because these documents may
currently available on-site, or note off-site location:
Document
O&M Manual
O&M Maintenance Logs
O&M Annual Reports
RA as-built drawings modified during O&M
Site-Specific Health and Safety Plan
Contingency/Emergency Response Plan
O&M/Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) Training Records
Settlement Monument Records
Gas Generation Records
Ground Water Monitoring Records
Surface Water/Sediment/Fish Monitoring Records**
Cap/Cover System Inspection Records
Leachate Extraction Records
Discharge Compliance Records
Institutional Controls (ICs) Review
Other(s) (Please name each)
Required
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
Not
required
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
n
On-
site
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
Off-site (indicate
where)
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
Note: A separate O&M checklist has been developed for surface water/sediment remedies. For completeness, answer this question
regarding documentation requirements and availability, and enter more detailed information in the surface water/sediment checklist.
IV. ADMINISTRATIVE I
Check aII that apph
Explanation of Significant Differences in progress
Record of Decision (ROD) Amendment in progress
Site in O&F period
Long-Term Response Action (LTRA) in progress
LTRA Transition to O&M in progress
Notice of Intent to Delete site in progress
Partial Site Deletion in progress
Technical Impracticability (TI) Waivers in progress
Reuse Assessment or Reuse Plan in progress
Revised Risk Assessment in progress
CD Ecological OR d Human Health
Other administrative issues:
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
VI. O&M COSTS
The purpose of this s
cost information will be readily available, but to the extent possible, please provide the following information, as this
will help identify cost increases and flag potential budget issues before they arise.
HMMMM(IHilM(MIBMMMI(MMI1MMIMilHIM(.MlaBM(MMIHalML mmmimtmm
What was the total annual O&M cost for the previous year?
What is the expected total annual O&M cost for the upcoming year?
Please provide an approximate breakout of the previous
year's O&M costs below.
Analytical (e.g., lab costs):
Materials (e.g., treatment chemicals, cap materials):
Oversight (e.g., project management):
Monitoring (e.g., ground water sampling):
Utilities (e.g., electric, gas, phone, water):
ICs (implementation and enforcement):
Other (e.g., capital improvements, equipment repairs):
Use either $ or %
Describe any unanticipated/unusually high or low O&M costs and potential future O&M funding issues.
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
VII. INSTITUTIONAL CONTROLS (ICs)**
The purpose of the 1C evaluation at the O&M phase is to determine if the ICs are implemented, effective and
durable. The following references may be useful for completing this evaluation:
• Institutional Controls Bibliography: Institutional Control, Remedy Selection, and Post Construction Completion
Guidance and Policy (OSWER 9355.0110, December 2005);
• Supplement to the Comprehensive Five- Year Review Guidance; Evaluation of Institutional Controls (OSWER
9355.7-12, working draft 3/17/05);
• National 1C Strategy to Ensure Institutional Controls Implementation at Supetfund Sites (OSWER 9355.0-106,
September 2004); and
• Institutional Controls: A Site Manager's Guide to Identifying, Evaluating and Selecting Institutional Controls at
Superfund and RCRA Corrective Action Cleanup (OSWER 9355.0-7-4FS-P, September 2000).
** Note: A separate O&M checklist has been developed for surface water/sediment remedies. For completeness,
answer this question regarding ICs, and enter more detailed information in the surface water/sediment checklist.
Identify each 1C (media, objective, and instrument) implemented/to be implemented at the site. Attach an extra
sheet if necessary.
Are the ICs adequate to minimize the potential for human exposure and protect the integrity of the
remedy?
If no, please explain.
B
Yes
No
Please identify the party responsible for compliance and enforcement of the 1C.
Please describe what the ICs are intended to accomplish, who they are designed to inform, the source document for
the 1C, and where the 1C information is located.
Please identify the date when the ICs were implemented. If the ICs have yet to be implemented, please identify the
party responsible for implementing the ICs and the scheduled implementation date.
If the ICs have been implemented, are they still in place? If the ICs remain in place, please identify whether there is
a planned termination date and, if so, what it is.
H
Are there reasons to clarify or modify the appropriate decision document(s) to improve the effectiveness
and/or durability of the ICs?
If yes, please explain and describe any plans to clarify/modify the document(s).
Yes
No
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
VIII. TECHNICAL DATA AND REMEDY PERFORMANCE
The purpose of this section is to help prompt questions about remedy performance over the past year, the adequacy
of monitoring activities to assess remedy performance, and changes in field conditions or understanding that could
affect the remedy. Specific sections also prompt questions about remedy optimization. Addressing these questions
on an annual basis can help to flag opportunities and potential issues to watch in the coming year and help inform
future improvements in remedy O&M. The collection of annual checklists can also serve as documentation of when
a potential issue was first identified, what was done to address it, and when it was addressed. Thus, an annual
checklist can be a useful, succinct source of information to help RPMs recount O&M history.
Questions for specific remedy types (e.g., ground water pump-and-treat) are contained in Appendices A through D
at the end of the form. Appendix E contains general questions that can be used to document technical data and
remedy performance for remedies and remedy components that do not fit within the specific categories identified in
the remainder of this checklist. Identify the remedy types in Section VIII.A, below, and complete a copy of each
appendix that is applicable to the site. If the site includes multiple remedies or remedy components of the same
type, please complete a copy of the applicable appendix for each remedy/component (e.g., if the remedy includes
two separately managed containment areas, complete two copies of Appendix C, one for each area). A separate
O&M checklist has been developed for surface water/sediment remedies and remedy components. If the site
includes a surface water/sediment remedy, note this below and complete the surface water/sediment checklist.
A. Please identify the type(s) of remedy(ies) this Annual O&M Remedy Evaluatior
clist addresses:
Ground Water Pump-and-Treat (please complete Appendix A)
Ground Water Monitored Natural Attenuation (MNA) (please complete Appendix B)
Ground Water or Soil Containment (please complete Appendix C)
Soil Vapor Extraction/Air Sparging (please complete Appendix D)
Other Remedy Types (please complete Appendix E)
IX. RECOMMENDATIO.
New Recommendations, from this annual review:
Recommendation
Party Responsible
Milestone Date
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
APPENDICES
TECHNICAL DATA AND REMEDY PERFORMANCE
ANNUAL O&M /REMEDY EVALUATION CHECKLIST
RECOMMENDED APPENDIX A. GROUND WATER PUMP-AND-TREAT
REMEDIES
The following checklist is an abbreviated set of questions that could be used by an EPA RPM for annually reviewing
the O&M of a ground water pump-and-treat remedy, including pump-and-treat remedies designed for hydraulic
containment. This checklist was developed using concepts presented in EPA guidance, Elements for Effective
Management of Operating Pump and Treat Systems (EPA 542-R-02-009, December 2002). This guidance is part
of a series of fact sheets that EPA OSRTI has prepared as guidance to the ground water remediation community
on effectively and efficiently designing and operating long-term ground water remedies. For more information,
including the guidance O&M Report Template for Ground Water Remedies (with Emphasis on Pump and Treat
Systems} (EPA 542-R-05-010, April 2005) and report Pilot Project to Optimize Superfund-Financed Pump and Treat
Systems: Summary Report and Lessons Learned (EPA 542-R-02-008a), visit EPA's CLU-IN Website
(www.cluin.org/).
A. Remedy Goals and Conceptual Site Model (CSM)
1. Review of the current remedy goals and measurements: Remedy goals may be expressed in terms of a
broad, long-term purpose or intent specified in a decision document (e.g., cleanup to a specified concentration), a
performance-based metric or milestone intermediate in duration (e.g., a 20% decrease in monthly influent
concentrations within 24 months of operation); or a specific and short-term objective (e.g., demonstration of
plume containment).
List the short-term objectives and intermediate system goals:
List the final system goals:
What metrics (performance criteria) are being implemented to measure project progress towards meeting each
goal?
What schedule has been established for measuring and reporting each metric?
Based on new information or events since the last O&M review, is there a reason to re-evaluate the
system goals? Note: this might be due to factors such as regulatory framework has been revised; better
technology/strategy alternatives available; existing goals appear unrealistic; costs greater than originally
anticipated; extent of plume has changed; new sources of contamination removed and/or discovered; or
land use or ground water production near site has changed.
If yes, identify the remedy goals that should be re-evaluated, the rationale, and any plans for re-
evaluating the goals.
2. Review of changes to the CSM: The CSM is a combination of text and figures that describe the
hydrogeologic system, the cause of the ground water impacts, and the fate and transport of the ground water
contaminants. If monitoring data during active remediation do not agree with expectations, this could point to a
gap in the conceptual model that should be addressed with a focused investigation. This does not imply a return to
the "remedial investigation" phase. The CSM should evolve over time, including during active remediation, as more
information about the site becomes available. The following questions may be used to evaluate the need for
updating the CSM:
Since the last time you completed the O&M checklist for this system, have new contaminant sources
been identified or have previously suspected contaminant sources been eliminated from further
consideration?
If yes, use this space to comment.
Since the last time you completed an O&M checklist for this system, have new contaminants been
identified in the ground water that could affect remedy effectiveness?
If yes, use this space to comment.
Based on your answers to the above questions, would it be useful to update the CSM at this time?
A-1
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist OSWER 9355.0-87
If yes, please describe any plans to update the CSM.
B. Remedy Performance Assessment
1. Evaluate remedy effectiveness: The following questions are intended to review whether the ground water
pump-and-treat remedy is performing as intended and whether there are opportunities for optimizing the remedy.
Plume Capture
When addressing these questions, it may be useful to refer to A Systematic Approach for Evaluation of Capture
Zones at Pump and Treat Systems (EPA 600/R-08/003, January 2008).
Has a three-dimensional target capture zone been clearly defined? Q yes
If no, use this space to explain why not. Q No
If not clearly defined, describe plans to better define the target capture zone.
What lines of evidence have been used to evaluate actual capture achieved (e.g., flow budget and/or capture zone
width calculations, potentiometric surface maps, water elevation pairs, concentration trends at wells beyond the
target capture zone, particle tracking in conjunction with ground water modeling, tracer tests)
System Equipment/Structures (e.g., extraction wells, collection systems)
Since the last time you completed an O&M checklist for this system, has the downtime associated with
non-routine operations and maintenance exceeded expectations?
If yes, what systems have been responsible for unplanned downtime (e.g., extraction pumps,
wastewater facilities)?
If yes, what corrections have been or are being made to minimize downtime?
Since the last time you completed the O&M checklist for this remedy/remedy component, have any
major repairs to the pump-and-treat system(s) been required?
If yes, describe the repairs, their impact on progress toward remediation milestones, and
actions taken to minimize similar repairs in the future.
Since the last time you completed an O&M checklist for this system, have the extraction/injection well
rates changed significantly?
If yes, describe the known/suspected source of the change, if identified.
If yes, is the change reflective of a long-term condition and, if so, how will this be addressed in
the O&M of the system?
Since the last time an O&M checklist was completed for this system, have air emissions from the
system met permit requirements, if any?
If not, what is being done to meet the permit requirements?
Since the last time an O&M checklist was completed for this system, has effluent discharge met permit
requirements?
If not, what was (is) the problem and what was (or will be) done to correct it?
D Yes
D No
D Yes
n NO
D Yes
n NO
D Yes
n NO
n N/A
D Yes
n NO
Optimization
Has an optimization study been conducted for this system?
If an optimization study has been conducted, have any of the optimization recommendations been
implemented since the last time an O&M checklist was completed for this system?
D Yes
n NO
D Yes
n NO
n N/A
If optimization recommendations have been implemented (during this or prior review periods), describe any new
results observed or conclusions drawn since the last time an O&M checklist was completed for this system.
If optimization recommendations have not been implemented, why not?
A-2
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
2. Evaluate collection and analysis of performance monitoring data
Do the approaches used to interpret ground water monitoring data (e.g., concentration trend analyses,
plume contour and/or bubble maps, plume cross-sections, potentiometric surface maps) provide
adequate information to assess the performance of the pump-and-treat remedy?
If no, describe plans, if any, to implement new approaches.
Based on information collected since the last O&M review, is there a need to re-evaluate the
parameters, sampling methods, sampling frequency, and monitoring locations used to evaluate remedy
performance?
Are ground water data managed electronically?
If no, use this space to explain why not.
Are performance-monitoring reports of sufficient quality and frequency to evaluate the efficacy of the
remedy and recognize protectiveness problems in time for effective action?
If no, what actions, if any, have been taken or are planned to address this situation?
D Yes
D No
DYes
DNo
D Yes
D No
D Yes
n NO
C. Cost Effectiveness
Are actual parameters consistent with design parameters (based on process monitoring)?
If not, how do they differ? (check all that apply)
D Influent rate to treatment plant
D Influent concentrations
n Mass loading to the system
D Removal efficiency for each treatment component
D Air to water ratio (air strippers)
D Materials usage (e.g., granular activated carbon (GAC), chemicals)
D Other (please explain )
Based on the above comparisons, have any above ground systems or process monitoring procedures
been evaluated/implemented to reduce costs?
If yes, please identify which of the following have been done to reduce costs, (check all that
apply)
D Ensuring proper maintenance and efficiency of equipment
D Replacing treatment components with alternate technologies (e.g., replace UV/Oxidation
with air stripping) or more appropriately sized components
D Eliminating unnecessary or redundant treatment components that are no longer needed
(e.g., metals removal or GAC polishing system)
D Changing discharge
n Automating system to reduce labor
D Optimizing ground water extraction rates and/or locations
D Other (please explain )
D Yes
n NO
D Yes
n NO
D. Remedial Decisions: Indicate which of the following remedial decisions is appropriate at the present time
and provide the basis for the decision.
n No Change to the System
D Modify/Optimize System
_ Modify/Optimize Monitoring Program
D 1C Modifications
n Implementation of Contingency/Alternative Remedy
Basis for decision:
A-3
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
RECOMMENDED APPENDIX B. GROUND WATER MONITORED NATURAL
ATTENUATION (MNA) REMEDIES
The following checklist is an abbreviated set of questions that could be used by an EPA RPM for annually reviewing
the O&M of a MNA remedy for ground water. This MNA guidance checklist was developed using concepts
presented in EPA guidance, Performance Monitoring of MNA Remedies for [volatile organic compounds] (VOCs) in
Ground Water (EPA/600/R-04/027; April 2004). For some approaches, a more detailed remedy optimization study
or remediation system evaluation (RSE) may be beneficial. For guidance on remedy optimization studies or RSEs,
visit EPA's CLU-IN Website (www.cluin.org/) or the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USAGE) Hazardous, Toxic and
Radioactive Waste Center of Expertise RSE Website (www.environmental.usace.army.mil/)
A. Remedy Goals and Conceptual Site Model (CSM)
1. Review of the current remedy goals and measurements: The remedy goals may be expressed in the
ROD as remedial action objectives (RAOs) and preliminary remediation goals (PRGs). RAOs provide a general
description of what the cleanup will accomplish (e.g., restoration of ground water). PRGs are the more specific
statements of the desired endpoint concentrations or risk levels, for each exposure route, that are believed to
provide adequate protection of human health and the environment.
List the intermediate system goals (RAOs and PRGs).
List the final system goals (RAOs and PRGs).
What metrics (performance criteria) are being implemented to measure project progress towards meeting each
goal?
What schedule has been established for measuring and reporting each metric?
Based on new information or events since the last review, is there a need to re-evaluate the
remedy goals? Note: this might be due to factors such as whether the regulatory framework has
been revised, whether existing goals appear realistic, and if there have been changes to land use
or ground water production near the site.
If yes, identify the remedy goals that should be re-evaluated, the rationale, and any plans for re-
evaluating the goals.
B
Yes
No
2. Review of changes to the CSM: The CSM for natural attenuation is the site-specific qualitative and
quantitative description of the migration and fate of contaminants with respect to possible receptors and the
geologic, hydrologic, biologic, geochemical and anthropogenic factors that control contaminant distribution.
Because the CSM provides the basis for the remedy and monitoring plan, it can be reevaluated as new data are
developed throughout the lifetime of the remedy. The following questions may be used to evaluate the need for
updating the CSM:
Have new contaminant sources been identified or have previously suspected contaminant
sources been eliminated from further consideration since the last time you completed the O&M
checklist for this remedy?
If yes, use this space to comment.
B
Yes
No
Has there been an increase or decrease in size of the plume since the last time you completed an
O&M checklist for this remedy?
Comments (e.g., what is the nature and magnitude of the change).
D
Increase
Decrease
No change
Has there been an increase or decrease in vertical extents of the plume since the last time you
completed an O&M checklist for this remedy?
Comments (e.g., what is the nature and magnitude of the change).
D
Increase
Decrease
No change
Has there been an increase or decrease in the maximum contaminant concentrations in the
plume since the last time you completed an O&M checklist for this remedy?
Comments (e.g., have maximum concentrations changed for all or a subset of contaminants,
which ones, and by how much).
D Increase
CD Decrease
CD No change
What types of reaction zone(s) are present in the plume (aerobic, anaerobic, or both)?
B-1
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
Based on information collected since the last O&M review, is there a need to re-evaluate the
number and/or location of monitoring points in the reaction zone(s)?
If yes, use this space to comment.
Based on information collected since the last O&M review, is there a need to re-evaluate the
number and/or location of monitoring points in the target zones?
If yes, use this space to comment.
Has there been a change in ground water flow rate or direction that may suggest monitoring
frequency or locations may need to be reevaluated?
If yes, use this space to comment.
Is there evidence of periodic pulses of residual contamination from the vadose zone that suggest
new monitoring points should be added in the vadose zone?
If yes, use this space to comment.
D Yes
D No
D Yes
D No
D Yes
D No
D Yes
D No
If there is reason to re-evaluate the number and location of monitoring points and/or monitoring frequency (as
indicated in above responses), identify any plans for re-evaluating the monitoring program.
Based on your responses to the above questions, would it be useful to update the CSM at this time?
If yes, please describe any plans to update the CSM.
D Yes
D No
B. Remedy Performance Assessment
1. Review performance monitoring objectives. The OSWER Directive 9200.4-17P (U.S.
eight specific objectives for the performance-monitoring program of an MNA remedy.
EPA, 1999a) provides
For each of the following eight performance monitoring objectives, identify which are currently being met, which
are currently being met but could benefit from further review, and which are currently not being met.
Objective
1) Demonstrate that natural attenuation is occurring according to expectations
2) Detect changes in environmental conditions that may reduce the efficacy of
any of the natural attenuation processes
3) Identify any potentially toxic and/or mobile transformation products
4) Verify that the plume(s) is not expanding downgradient, laterally or vertically
5) Verify no unacceptable impact to downgradient receptors
6) Detect new releases of contaminants to the environment that could impact
the effectiveness of the natural attenuation remedy
7) Demonstrate the efficacy of ICs that were put in place to protect potential
receptors
8) Verify attainment of remediation objectives
Status
Being
met
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
If any of these objectives are not being met or would benefit from review, please describe
the objective not being met, why might the objective benefit from further review).
Benefit
from
review
D
D
D
E
D
D
D
D
Not
being
met
Q
D
D
3
Q
D
D
G
(e.g., in what way is
Describe any plans to review and/or change the location, frequency or types of samples and measurements to
meet this (these) objective(s).
B-2
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
2. Evaluate remedy effectiveness: The following questions are intended to review whether the MNA remedy is
performing as intended, or whether there may be a need to implement a contingency remedy. A contingency
remedy is a cleanup technology or approach that functions as a backup remedy in the event that the selected
remedy fails to perform as anticipated.
Since the last O&M review, have contaminant concentrations in soil or ground water at specified
locations exhibited an increasing trend not originally predicted during remedy selection?
Yes
No
Since the last O&M review, have near-source wells exhibited large concentration increases indicative of a
new or renewed release?
Yes
No
Since the last O&M review, have contaminants been detected in monitoring wells located outside of the
original plume boundary or other compliance-monitoring boundary?
Yes
No
Since the last O&M review, have analyses concluded that the rate of decrease of contaminant
concentrations may be inadequate to meet the remediation objectives?
-
Yes
No
Since the last O&M review, have changes in land and/or ground water use been suggested and or
implemented that have the potential to reduce the protectiveness of the MNA remedy?
Yes
No
Since the last review, have contaminants been identified in locations that pose or have the potential to
pose unacceptable risk to receptors?
Yes
No
If you answered yes to any of the above questions, did the information suggest the
need for immediate action or is the condition being monitored to evaluate the need for
future action?
Use this space to comment.
Immediate action
Monitored for future
N/A
Based on your answers to the above questions, is there reason to evaluate the need for a contingent
remedy at this time?
If yes, use this space to comment.
Yes
No
3. Evaluate collection and analysis of performance monitoring data
What evidence has been used to evaluate actual plume dissipation (e.g., temporal trends in individual wells,
estimation of mass reduction, comparisons of observed contaminant distributions with predictions and required
milestones, comparison of field-scale attenuation rates)?
Since the last O&M review, has it been necessary to modify the site-specific plans (e.g., Sampling and
Analysis Plan, Quality Assurance Project Plan, Data Management Plan) to account for new information
and/or unforeseen circumstances?
If yes, use this space to comment.
B
Yes
No
H
Does information collected since the last O&M review suggest the need to evaluate whether field
parameters that are critical to an MNA evaluation (e.g., dissolved oxygen, redox potential) are being
collected at appropriate monitoring points?
If yes, use this space to comment.
Yes
No
H
Do the approaches used to interpret ground water monitoring data (e.g., concentration trend analyses,
plume contour and/or bubble maps, plume cross-sections, potentiometric surface maps) provide
adequate information to assess the performance of the natural attenuation remedy?
If no, describe plans, if any, to implement new approaches.
Yes
No
H
H
Does information collected since the last O&M review suggest the need to re-evaluate the ground water
and soil-monitoring program to more accurately delineate and monitor the plume boundary?
If yes, use this space to comment.
Yes
No
Since the last O&M review, has it been necessary to modify the data quality assessment, including
statistical tests (if appropriate), regression analysis, scatter plots, etc. to account for new information
and/or unforeseen circumstances?
If yes, use this space to comment.
Yes
No
Are ground water data managed electronically?
If no, use this space to explain why not.
Yes
No
B-3
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
If statistical tests are used, do the data meet the assumptions of the statistical test?
Yes
No
If no, does this suggest the need to change the monitoring program or re-
evaluate the statistical approach?
Use this space to comment.
CD Evaluate monitoring program
CD Evaluate statistical approach
n Neither
Is high variability in the data interfering with or preventing a meaningful interpretation of the data?
If yes, could this situation be mitigated by increasing the density or frequency of sampling?
Use this space to comment.
Are performance-monitoring reports of sufficient quality and frequency to evaluate the efficacy of
MNA as a remedy and recognize protectiveness problems in time for effective action?
If no, what actions, if any, have been taken or are planned to address this situation?
B
Yes
No
H
Are techniques or models being used to evaluate adequacy/redundancy of individual wells in the
monitoring network, and adequacy/redundancy of sampling frequency? Note that techniques may range
from statistical trend analysis to application of a decision support tool.
Yes
No
If no, are there plans to evaluate the adequacy/redundancy of individual monitoring wells and/or
sampling frequency?
Use this space to comment.
B
Yes
No
C. Cost Effectiveness: Key considerations in looking at cost-effectiveness of an MNA remedy are the list of
parameters for monitoring, as well as the frequency and location of monitoring. Decreases in monitoring
parameters, frequency or locations may be appropriate and allow for reductions in project monitoring costs. For
example, decreases in monitoring frequency for certain parameters may be warranted if the remedy is proceeding
according to expectations and trends are stable after evaluation of data from a sufficient number of monitoring
periods (e.g., many years). To support such a decision, the available data generally cover a time period sufficient
to allow for an evaluation of seasonal trends and other long-term cycles and trends.
H
Does information collected since the last O&M review suggest opportunities to eliminate monitoring
points (e.g., because of redundancy, unreliability, or changes in program objectives)?
If yes, use this space to comment.
Yes
No
H
Does information collected since the last O&M review suggest opportunities to replace current analytical
and sampling methods with less expensive methods and still meet the data quality objectives?
If yes, use this space to comment.
Yes
No
Can the analyte list be shortened to focus on the known contaminants of concern?
Yes
No
D. Remedial Decisions: Following data evaluation, decisions are routinely made regarding the effectiveness of
the MNA remedy, monitoring program, and ICs, and the need for contingency or alternative remedies. The
following remedial decisions are discussed in Section 4 of the EPA guidance document Performance Monitoring of
MNA Remedies for VOCsin Ground Wafer (EPA/600/R-04/027; April 2004). Indicate which of the following remedial
decisions is appropriate at the present time and provide the basis for the decision.
No Change to the Monitoring Program
Modify/Optimize Monitoring Program
1C Modifications
Implementation of Contingency/Alternative Remedy
Terminate Performance Monitoring and Initiate Verification Monitoring
Basis for decision:
B-4
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
RECOMMENDED APPENDIX C. CONTAINMENT REMEDIE
The following checklist is an abbreviated set of questions that could be used by a EPA ,.,,-,
of the O&M of a containment remedy and associated off-gas treatment system. This checklist focuses on
engineered containment remedies, including landfill caps, covers, and vertical engineered barriers (VEB).
Containment by other means such as hydraulic control and in-situ sediment containment remedies are not
addressed by this appendix. See separate surface water/sediment remedy checklist for sediment remedies.
Although the checklist includes items for off-gas systems, it focuses on off-gas collection. The checklist does not
address off-gas management using combustion systems because such systems are uncommon at Superfund sites.
A. Remedy Description, Goals and Conceptual Site Model (CSM)
1. Review of the current remedy
Identify the containment systems in place:
D Cap/cover
D VEB
n Liner
D Landfill gas collection
D Landfill gas management
Leachate detection
Leachate collection
Leachate management
Other (Describe: )
Identify the O&M components:
D Inspection
D Monitoring
n Testing
D Ground water monitoring
D Surface water monitoring
Landfill gas monitoring
Vapor intrusion monitoring
Leachate monitoring
Other (Describe: )
2. Review of the current remedy goals
Identify the remedy goals (RAOs):
D Prevent direct contact with a contaminant source
D Prevent migration of a contaminant source to:
A drinking water aquifer
Surface water
Soil or other solid media
Air (via wind-borne material)
Air (via volatilization)
Other (Describe: )
Prevent migration of contaminated ground water
Prevent vapor intrusion or indoor air exposure
Control off-gas
Other remedy goals (Describe: )
What metrics (performance criteria) are being implemented to measure project progress towards meeting each
goal?
What schedule has been established for measuring and reporting each metric?
Based on new information or events since the last O&M review, is there a need to re-evaluate the
remedy goals? This might be due to factors such as whether the regulatory framework has been revised,
whether existing goals appear to be realistic, and whether there have been changes in land use or
ground water production near the site. If yes, identify the remedy goals that should be re-evaluated, the
rationale, and any plans for re-evaluating the goals.
Yes
No
C-1
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
3. Review of changes to the CSM: The CSM for a containment remedy is the site-specific, qualitative and
quantitative description of the migration and fate of contaminants with respect to possible receptors and the
geologic, hydrologic, biological, geochemical and anthropogenic factors that control contaminant distribution.
Because the CSM provides the basis for the remedy and the post-closure maintenance plan or O&M plan, the
model should be re-evaluated as new data are collected throughout the lifetime of the remedy.
Does new information gathered or conclusions reached since the last time the O&M checklist was
completed indicate a change in understanding about the sources, types, migration, and fate of
contaminants?
Note that indicators could include (1) the remedy not functioning as designed, (2) unexpected
contaminants or contaminant concentrations above the required levels at the point of compliance, (3)
unexpected trends in contaminant concentrations, (4) unexpected changes in the flow rate or
direction of ground water, (5) unexpected changes in off-gas characteristics, or (6) unexpected
evidence of vapor intrusion in nearby structures.
Yes
No
Based on new information and/or conclusions, would it be useful to update the CSM at this time?
If yes, please describe any plans to update the CSM.
Yes
No
B. Remedy Performance Assessment
This section contains a series of questions that can be used to help assess a containment remedy's effectiveness
and evaluate the collection and analysis of performance monitoring data. For each potential problem identified, an
analysis should be performed to determine what, if anything should be done.
1. Evaluate remedy effectiveness: The following questions are intended to review whether the containment
remedy is performing as intended or whether there is a need to implement a contingency remedy. A contingency
remedy is a cleanup technology or approach that functions as a backup remedy in the event that the selected
remedy fails to perform as anticipated. A contingency remedy may be considered if there is a "yes" answer to one
or more of the following three questions.
Note that additional measures and methods for evaluating the effectiveness of containment remedies can be
found in "EPA/USACE Draft Technical Guidance for RCRA/CERCLA Final Covers"(EPA 540-R-04-007) and "EPA
Comprehensive 5-Year Review Guidance, AppendixD, Five-Year Review Site Inspection Checklist" (OSWER
Directive 9355.7-03B-P).
Since the last O&M review, has inspection or testing of the cap, cover, liner, or VEB indicated that the
system is failing or could eventually fail?
Yes
No
Since the last O&M review, have changes in land, surface water, or ground water use been suggested
and or implemented that have the potential to reduce the protectiveness of the containment remedy?
Yes
No
Since the last O&M review, have contaminants been identified in new locations or at higher
concentrations where they pose or have the potential to pose unacceptable risks to receptors?
Yes
No
If you answered yes to any of the above questions, did the information suggest the
need for immediate action or is the condition being monitored to evaluate the need for
future action?
Use this space to comment.
What actions, if any, have been taken and/or are planned in response to the new
information?
Immediate action
Monitored for future
N/A
For VEB Only: Note that additional measures and methods for evaluating VEB effectiveness can be found in "EPA
Evaluation of Subsurface Engineered Barriers at Waste Sites".
Have
bulk
integrity
tests
been
performed
since
the
last
O&M
review?
DYes
DNO
C-2
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
If bulk integrity tests have been performed since the last review, do test results indicate that need to
evaluate possible breaches or excessive leakage in the VEB over the short and long terms?
If yes, what actions have been taken and/or are planned in response?
Yes
No
IN/A
Based on information collected since the last O&M review, do contaminant concentrations upgradient of
the VEB indicate the need to evaluate actions to prevent possible contaminant migration?
If yes, what actions have been taken and/or are planned in response?
Yes
No
Does information collected since the last O&M review suggest the need to evaluate hydraulic controls as
an additional measure to control possible contaminant migration around the VEB (answer N/A if hydraulic
controls are already part of the remedy)?
If yes, what actions have been taken and/or are planned in response?
Yes
No
IN/A
For Off-Gas Collection Management Only: Note that additional measures and methods for evaluating off-gas
collection and management effectiveness can be found in "USAGE Landfill Off-Gas Treatment, Thermal Oxidation
Checklist".
Since the last O&M review for this system, have off-gas volume and composition been consistently within
equipment design parameters?
If no, what actions have been taken and/or are planned in response?
Yes
No
Since the last O&M review for this system, have off-gas system operational characteristics, such as
required temperatures and pressures, been maintained within system design parameters?
If no, what actions have been taken and/or are planned in response?
Yes
No
Since the last time an O&M checklist was completed for this system, have off-gas emissions met all
federal, state, and local regulatory requirements?
If no, what is being done to meet these requirements?
Yes
No
Based on information collected since the last O&M review, is there any evidence of unacceptable vapor
intrusion in nearby structures?
If yes, what actions have been taken and/or are planned in response?
Yes
No
Based on information collected since the last O&M review, have concentrations of off-gases inside
buildings or at the site fence line suggested the need to assess safety and human health threats?
If yes, what actions have been taken and/or are planned in response?
Yes
No
2. Evaluate collection and analysis of performance monitoring data
Note that more detailed information about performance parameters can be found in the following documents:
• "EPA/USACE Draft Technical Guidance for RCRA/CERCLA Final Covers" (EPA 540-R-04-007)
• "EPA Comprehensive 5-Year Review Guidance, Appendix D, Five-Year Review Site Inspection Checklist"
(OSWER Directive 9355.7-03B-P)
• "USAGE Landfill Off-Gas Treatment, Thermal Oxidation Checklist"
• "EPA Evaluation of Subsurface Engineered Barriers at Waste Sites"(EPA 542-R-98-005; August 1998).
Since the last O&M review, has it been necessary to modify planned inspections, sampling events, and
sample analyses, as reflected in the site post-closure maintenance plan or O&M plans, to account for
new information and/or unforeseen circumstances?
If yes, use this space to comment.
Yes
No
Has information collected since the last O&M review suggested the need to re-evaluate whether
performance parameters that are critical to evaluation of the containment remedy are being collected at
appropriate monitoring points?
If yes, what actions have been taken and/or are planned in response?
Yes
No
C-3
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
Are ground water and off-gas system monitoring data managed electronically?
If no, use this space to explain why not.
Yes
No
Since the last O&M review, have monitoring data been analyzed to identify trends and their significance?
If no, use this space to explain why not.
Yes
No
Is high variability in the data interfering with or preventing a meaningful interpretation of the data?
Yes
No
If yes, could this situation be mitigated by increasing the density or frequency of data collection?
Use this space to comment.
Yes
No
Are inspection and performance monitoring reports of sufficient quality and frequency to evaluate the
efficacy of containment as a remedy and recognize protectiveness problems in time for effective action?
If no, what actions, if any, have been taken or are planned to address this situation?
Yes
No
C. Cost-Effectiveness
If off-gas is currently being treated, can it be vented to the atmosphere without treatment in compliance
with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations?
Yes
No
IN/A
If yes, has the possibility of discontinuing off-gas treatment been explored?
Use this space to comment.
Yes
No
IN/A
If leachate is currently being collected and treated, is operation of the leachate system necessary for
proper functioning of the containment system?
Yes
No
IN/A
If no, has the possibility of discontinuing leachate collection and treatment been explored?
Use this space to comment.
Yes
No
IN/A
If hydraulic controls are being used in conjunction with a VEB, would the VEB provide passive
containment without these controls?
Yes
No
IN/A
If yes, has the possibility of discontinuing the hydraulic controls been explored?
Use this space to comment.
Yes
No
IN/A
D. Remedial Decisions: Indicate which of the following remedial decisions is appropriate at the present
and provide the basis for the decision.
time
No change to the remedy
Modify or optimize remedy
Modify or optimize O&M
Modify ICs
Implement contingency or alternative remedy
Terminate inspections or monitoring
Basis for decision:
C-4
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
RECOMMENDED APPENDIX D. SOIL VAPOR EXTRACTION/AIR SPARGIN
REMEDIES
• The following checklist is an abbreviated set of questions that EPA RPMs could use when conducting an
r annual review of the O&M of a soil vapor extraction (SVE), air sparging (AS), or combined SVE/AS remedy.
This checklist does not represent the level of review used in EPA's five-year review process to determine
whether the remedy is or will be protective of human health and the environment. However, the checklist
does contain review elements regarding the performance of SVE and/or AS remedies that are consistent
with the comprehensive five-year review process.
A. Remedy Description, Goals and Conceptual Site Model (CSM)
1. Review of the current remedy
Identify the current remedy:
D SVE
D AS
How many extraction wells or trenches are used for SVE (if applicable)?
How many injection wells are used for AS (if applicable)?
2. Review of the current remedy goals
List the remedy goals (RAOs):
D Prevent migration of a contaminant source to:
n A drinking water aquifer
D Surface water
D Soil or other solid media
n Prevent migration of contaminated ground water
D Restore ground water
D Other (Describe: )
List the short-term objectives and intermediate system goals.
List the long-term soil and ground water cleanup goals.
What metrics (performance criteria) are being implemented to measure project progress towards meeting each
goal?
What schedule has been established for measuring and reporting each metric?
Based on new information or events since the last O&M review, is there a reason to re-evaluate the
remedy goals? Note that this might be due to factors such as whether the regulatory framework has
been revised, whether existing goals appear to be realistic, and whether there have been changes in
land or ground water use near the site.
If yes, identify the remedy goals that should be re-evaluated, the rationale, and any plans for re-
evaluating the goals.
Yes
No
D-1
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
3. Review of changes to the CSM: The CSM for a SVE/AS remedy is the site-specific, qualitative and
quantitative description of the migration and fate of contaminants with respect to possible receptors and the
geologic, hydrologic, biological, geochemical and anthropogenic factors that control contaminant distribution.
Because the CSM provides the basis for the remedy and the O&M plan, the model should be re-evaluated as new
data are collected throughout the lifetime of the remedy.
Does new information gathered or conclusions reached since the last time the O&M checklist was
completed indicate a change in understanding about the sources, types, migration, and fate of
contaminants?
Note that indicators could include: (1) the remedy not functioning as designed, (2) unexpected
contaminants or contaminant concentrations above the required levels at the point of compliance, (3)
unexpected trends in contaminant concentrations, (4) unexpected changes in the flow rate or
direction of ground water, (5) unexpected changes in off-gas characteristics, (6) unexpected
evidence of vapor intrusion in nearby structures; or (7) identification of new sources.
Yes
No
Based on new information and/or conclusions, would it be useful to update the CSM at this time?
If yes, please describe any plans to update the CSM.
Yes
No
B. Remedy Performance Assessment
This section contains a series of questions that can be used to help assess a SVE/AS remedy's effectiveness and
evaluate the collection and analysis of performance monitoring data.
1. Evaluate remedy effectiveness: The following questions are intended to review whether the SVE/AS
remedy is performing as intended, or whether there is a need to implement a contingency remedy. A contingency
remedy is a cleanup technology or approach that functions as a backup remedy in the event that the selected
remedy fails to perform as anticipated. A contingency remedy may be considered if there is a "yes" answer to
either of the following five questions.
Based on information collected since the last O&M review, do monitoring data indicate that the system is
failing or could eventually fail to meet remedy goals?
B
Yes
No
Since the last O&M review, has the areal extent of contamination (or plume) increased in a manner not
originally predicted during remedy selection?
B
Yes
No
Since the last O&M review, have monitoring data exhibited trends indicative of a new or renewed
release?
Yes
No
Since the last O&M review, have changes in land and/or ground water use been suggested and or
implemented that have the potential to reduce the protectiveness of the SVE/AS remedy?
Yes
No
Since the last O&M review, have contaminants been identified in new locations or at higher
concentrations where they pose or have the potential to pose unacceptable risks to receptors?
B
Yes
No
If you answered yes to any of the above questions, did the information suggest the
need for immediate action or is the condition being monitored to evaluate the need for
future action?
Use this space to comment.
What actions, if any, have been taken and/or are planned in response to the
new information?
Immediate action
Monitored for future
N/A
Based on your answers to the above questions, is there reason to evaluate the need for a contingent
remedy at this time?
If yes, use this space to comment.
Yes
No
D-2
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
Blowers and Piping
Since the last O&M review for this system, has evidence of excessive corrosion of system components
been observed?
If yes, what actions have been taken and/or are planned in response?
Yes
No
Since the last O&M review, if blowers are operated intermittently, do VOC concentrations increase after
they are shut off?
How has this information been interpreted and what actions, if any, have been taken and/or are planned
in response?
Yes
No
IN/A
Since the last O&M review, have blower operational characteristics, such as flow rate, pressure, and
discharge temperatures, been consistently within equipment design parameters?
If no, what actions have been taken and/or are planned in response?
Yes
No
Since the last O&M review, if water is manually removed from the extraction blower water separator, has
water accumulation been observed that could adversely impact blower operation?
If yes, what actions have been taken and/or are planned in response?
Yes
No
IN/A
Since the last O&M review, have all blowers, water separators, valves, and piping components been
consistently operational?
Yes
No
Has the downtime associated with non-routine operations and maintenance of the blowers since the last
time you completed an O&M checklist for this system exceeded expectations?
If yes, what have been identified as the causes?
If yes, what corrections have been or are being made to minimize downtime?
Yes
No
Does the operational history suggest that the preventative maintenance plan for the blowers needs to be
re-evaluated?
If yes, what actions have been taken and/or are planned in response?
Soil Vapor Extraction System
Identify the SVE system characteristics, if any, that have deviated consistently/frequently from operational
expectations since the last time an O&M checklist was completed for this system:
D Vapor flow rates at one or more extraction wells
D Vapor compositions (VOCs, C02, 02) at one or more extraction wells
D Pressures at one or more extraction wells
D Flow at blower (prior to entry of any dilution air if used)
D Accumulation of water in the water separator
Does this (do these) deviation(s) indicate a new condition since the last O&M review or an
ongoing trend?
New condition
Ongoing trend
N/A
What has been identified as the cause for this (these) deviation(s)?
What actions, if any, have been or are being taken in response to this (these) deviation(s)?
Based on information collected since the last O&M review, is there any evidence of unacceptable vapor
intrusion in nearby structures?
If yes, what actions have been taken and/or are planned in response?
NO
D-3
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
Since the last O&M review, have gas concentrations in the blower discharge been running close enough
to the lower explosive limit (LEL) or shown an increasing trend that suggests the need for action? Note
that specific compound LEL data are available in many chemistry texts as well as National Fire Protection
Agency guidelines.
What actions, if any, have been taken and/or are planned in response to the new information?
Yes
No
Air Sparging System
Since the last O&M review of the AS system, have flow rates at each injection well been consistently
maintained within system design parameters?
If no, what actions, if any, have been or are being taken in response?
Yes
No
Based on information collected since the last O&M review, have dissolved oxygen concentrations been
maintained at a level sufficient to promote biological activity?
If no, what actions, if any, have been or are being taken in response?
Yes
No
Since the last O&M review, are measured dissolved oxygen concentrations consistently indicative of good
air/water contact rates (i.e., are concentrations near saturation)?
If no, what actions, if any, have been or are being taken in response?
Yes
No
VOC Control System
If the SVE system contains a VOC control device, has the device consistently met performance and
compliance monitoring requirements (e.g., total VOC emission limits, specific compound limits,
monitoring, air permit) since the last O&M review for this system?
If no, what actions have been taken and/or planned in response?
Yes
No
IN/A
Since the last O&M review, has the VOC control system consistently meet required destruction and
removal efficiencies?
If no, what actions have been taken and/or planned in response?
Yes
No
Since the last O&M review, have any violations of air permits been reported?
If yes, what has been or is being done to meet permit requirements?
Yes
No
Since the last time you completed an O&M checklist for this system, has the VOC control system been
responsible for downtime associated with non-routine operations and maintenance?
If yes,
• What was (were) the cause(s) for unplanned shutdown(s)?
• What has been done or is being done to minimize future downtime?
Yes
No
Thermal Oxidizers
Since the last O&M review for this system, have the operational characteristics (e.g., LEL history of feed
gas, operating temperature, inlet flow, oxygen level in flue gas, fuel use) been consistently within
equipment design parameters?
If no, what actions, if any, have been or are being taken in response?
Yes
No
IN/A
Since the last O&M review, has there been any indication of improper operation of flashback protection
equipment (e.g., detonation arrester, sealed drum)?
If yes, what actions have been taken and/or planned in response?
Yes
No
Since the last O&M review, has there been any indication of improper operation of safety interlocks (e.g.,
high LEL, high oxidizer temperature, loss of flame, low fuel pressures)?
If yes, what actions have been taken and/or planned in response?
Yes
No
D-4
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
If acid gases are present, have scrubber operations (e.g., scrubber liquid flow and pH, caustic use,
scrubber blowdown and its treatment) been consistent with operational expectations since the last O&M
review?
If no, what actions have been taken and/or planned in response?
Yes
No
Carbon Adsorbers
Does the unit have humidity controls?
Yes
No
Since the last O&M review for this system, have the operational characteristics (e.g., relative humidity
data at adsorber inlet, adsorber operating temperature, carbon breakthrough, carbon change out history,
operating velocity through adsorbers, adsorber discharge VOC data) been consistently within equipment
design parameters?
If no, what actions, if any, have been or are being taken in response?
Yes
No
IN/A
Other Control Devices
Since the last O&M review for this system, have the operational characteristics (e.g., biofiltration media
surface loading rate, temperature controls, nutrient addition rate) been consistently within equipment
design parameters?
If no, what actions, if any, have been or are being taken in response?
Yes
No
IN/A
2. Evaluate collection and analysis of performance monitoring data
Since the last O&M review, has it been necessary to modify sampling frequency relative to the original
O&M plan to account for new information and/or unforeseen circumstances?
If yes, use this space to comment.
Yes
No
Does soil and/or ground water data collected since the previous O&M review (e.g., VOCs concentrations,
ground water elevations) suggest the need to re-evaluate other aspects of the monitoring program (e.g.,
monitoring locations, test parameters) to account for new information/unforeseen circumstances?
If yes, use this space to comment.
Yes
No
C. Cost Effectiveness: Key considerations in looking at cost-effectiveness are the O&M costs incurred relative to
design and reduction in VOC removal rates. Opportunities to reduce costs can be potentially found in the following
areas:
Does information collected since the last O&M review suggest that flows could be redistributed to speed
overall remediation (i.e., reduce or eliminate flow to/from wells where removals have reached near
asymptotic conditions or where cleanup goals have been achieved)?
Use this space to comment.
Yes
No
Does information collected since the last O&M review show evidence of diffusion-limited VOC movement?
Yes
No
If yes, has the idea of modifying operation to pulsing (intermittent) been considered to speed overall
remediation?
Use this space to comment.
Yes
No
Does information collected since the last O&M review show reduced VOC removal rates that might
warrant a reduction in monitoring frequencies?
Use this space to comment.
Yes
No
Does information collected since the last O&M review suggest that VOC recovery rates have been
reduced to the extent that the VOC control device can be eliminated?
Use this space to comment.
Yes
No
IN/A
D-5
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
Does information collected since the last O&M review suggest that an alternative, lower cost VOC control
device could be used?
Use this space to comment.
Yes
No
Does information collected since the last O&M review suggest that operation of the VOC control device
could be modified to reduce costs, e.g., operate thermal oxidizer at lower temperatures or lower dilution
air flows (e.g., when LEL basis no longer requires design flow) or use larger carbon beds to reduce
carbon supplier charges for change outs?
Use this space to comment.
Yes
No
Has maintenance history since the last O&M review identified high-maintenance equipment that could be
replaced?
Use this space to comment.
Yes
No
E. Remedial Decisions: Indicate which of the following remedial decisions are appropriate at the present time
and provide a basis for each decision:
Continue current remedy
Goals have been achieved ~ system can be shutdown in favor of MNA
Modify/optimize remedial system(s) - use intermittent operation; optimize flows to/from wells to promote
increased removals; increase use of sparging to promote biodegradation; add new wells if contaminant
movement is indicated to areas currently not being influenced; implement cost reduction measures; conduct
more detailed evaluation of the contaminated zone using a tool such as Pneulog.
Modify/optimize O&M - increase monitoring to provide additional data for more definitive assessment at the
next review
Modify ICs
Implement contingent or alternative remedy
Basis for decision:
D-6
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
RECOMMENDED APPENDIX E. OTHER REMEDY TYPES/COMPONENTS
The following checklist is a set of questions that may be used by EPA RPMs for an annual review of the O&M of
remedies and remedy components that are not addressed in Appendices A through D or the separate surface
water/sediment remedy O&M checklist. This could include remedies/components that involve a technology that is
not covered in these other materials or remedies/components where the O&M can be more efficiently reviewed
using the more streamlined questions below. If the site includes multiple remedy components that are not
covered elsewhere, multiple copies of this appendix, each applying to a different component or rel;
components, could be comple
A. Remedy Description and Goals
1. Review of current remedy goals, and measurements
The following questions can be used to document basic information about the remedy and remedy goals to
provide context for the remainder of the information in this appendix.
Identify the remedy component(s) and associated systems and technologies being covered on this form:
What are the intermediate and final system goals?
What metrics (performance criteria) are being implemented to measure project progress towards meeting each
goal?
What schedule has been established for measuring and reporting each metric?
Based on new information or events since the last O&M review of this system/technology, is there a need
to re-evaluate the remedy goals?
If yes, identify the remedy goals that should be re-evaluated, the rationale, and any plans for re-
evaluating the goals.
Yes
No
2. Review of changes to the CSM
The following questions ask about changes in contamination and other field conditions that could affect the
monitoring program, system operations, and other aspects of O&M. They provide context for questions in
subsequent sections that ask whether action should be taken to modify the O&M program.
Do monitoring data indicate trends/patterns that are inconsistent with the CSM (or similar conceptual
understanding of site conditions) that was used as the basis for design of the remedy/remedial
component(s)?
If yes, use this space to comment.
Yes
No
Have there been changes in field conditions (e.g., change in land/water use) that differ significantly from
the conditions incorporated in the CSM (or similar conceptual understanding of site conditions) that was
used as the basis for design of the remedy/remedial component(s)?
If yes, use this space to comment.
Yes
No
Have new contaminant sources been identified?
If yes, please describe the new sources and how they are they being addressed:
Yes
No
B. Remedy Performance Assessment
This section contains a series of questions that can be used to help assess whether the monitoring program and
remediation systems O&M should be adjusted.
1. Monitoring Program
Describe changes to the monitoring program that have been made since the last time you completed the O&M
checklist for this remedy component.
Are the baseline data and post-remedy data adequate to perform statistical comparisons and evaluate
remedy performance?
If no, what actions have been or are being taken in response?
Yes
No
E-1
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
Is high variability in the data interfering with or preventing a meaningful interpretation of the data?
Yes
No
If yes, could this situation be mitigated by increasing the density or frequency of data collection?
Use this space to comment.
Yes
No
Based on changes in contamination or field conditions (see A.2 of this appendix), is there reason to
modify the monitoring program?
If yes, describe changes to the monitoring program that are most necessary.
Yes
No
Has the adequacy/redundancy and cost-effectiveness of the monitoring program been evaluated,
including evaluation of sampling locations, frequency, sampling and analytical methods, monitoring
parameters, and test methods?
Use this space to comment.
Yes
No
Is there reason to modify the monitoring program to address inadequacies, remove redundancies, and/or
improve its cost-effectiveness?
If yes, describe changes to the monitoring program that would likely have the greatest impact.
Yes
No
Do you have adequate documentation (e.g., good quality O&M reports) and tools (e.g., software) to
effectively manage and interpret monitoring data?
If no, please explain how documentation and/or tools could be improved.
Yes
No
2. System Operations
Describe changes to system operations that have been made since the last time you completed the O&M checklist
for this remedy component.
Is (are) the remedial system(s) covered under this appendix performing as expected relative to the
remediation milestones and goal(s)?
If no, what actions have been or are being taken in response?
Yes
No
Do monitoring data indicate trends/patterns that are consistent with remedial design expectations?
If no, what actions have been or are being taken in response?
Yes
No
Based on observations regarding contamination or field conditions (see A.2 of this appendix and previous
questions in this section), is there reason to modify systems operations to improve remedy performance?
If yes, describe changes to system operations that are most necessary.
Yes
No
Has an optimization study been conducted for the remedy/remedy component(s)?
Use this space to comment.
Yes
No
Has the downtime associated with non-routine operations and maintenance exceeded expectations?
If yes, what actions have been or are being taken to minimize downtime?
Yes
No
Based on optimization and downtime considerations, is there reason to modify systems operations to
improve remedy performance?
If yes, describe changes to system operations that are most necessary.
Yes
No
3. Maintenance
Are routine maintenance activities adequate to ensure the reliable operation of the remedial system(s)?
If no, what changes to the maintenance program are most necessary?
Yes
No
E-2
-------
Recommended Annual O&M/Remedy Evaluation Checklist
OSWER 9355.0-87
Have any major repairs to the remedial system(s) been required since the last time you completed the
O&M checklist for this remedy/remedy component?
If yes, describe the repairs, their impact on progress toward remediation milestones, and actions
taken to minimize similar repairs in the future.
Yes
No
C. Cost Effectiveness
Does information collected since the last O&M review suggest opportunities to reduce costs associated
with equipment operations and maintenance?
If yes, use this space to comment.
Yes
No
Does information collected since the last O&M review suggest opportunities to reduce costs associated
with the monitoring program?
If yes, use this space to comment.
Yes
No
D. Remedial Decisions: Indicate which of the following remedial decisions is appropriate at the present time and
provide the basis for the decision.
No Change
Modify/Optimize System
Modify/Optimize Monitoring Program
Modify ICs
Implement Contingency/Alternative Remedy
Basis for decision:
E-3
------- |