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EPA

United States
Environmental Protection
Agency

Scientific Support Section
Superfund Division
EPA Region 4

March 2018 Update

Region 4 Human Health Risk Assessment
Supplemental Guidance

https://www.epa.gov/risk/region-4-risk-assessment-contacts


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Region 4 Supplemental Guidance
Table of Contents

Scientific Support Section
Superfund Division

Contents

Contents

1.0 Introduction	1-1

2.0 Data Collection and Evaluation	2-1

2.1	Data Collection	2-1

2.2	Developing a Soil Sampling Strategy	2-1

2.2.1 Evaluation of Soil Pathways	2-3

2.3	Detection Limits	2-4

2.4	Turbidity in Groundwater	2-4

2.5	Data Evaluation	2-4

2.6	COPC Selection Process	2-4

2.6.1 Basis for Retaining or Eliminating a Chemical as a COPC	2-5

3.0 Toxicity Assessment/Chemical-Specific Issues	3-1

3.1	Presentation of Toxicity Values	3-1

3.1.1	Inhalation Toxicity Values	3-2

3.1.2	Dermal Toxicity Values	3-2

3.2	Toxicity of Special Chemicals	3-2

3.2.1	Dioxins and Furans	3-2

3.2.2	Approach to Sampling, Analysis, and Evaluation of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)	3-3

3.2.3	Approach to Sampling, Analysis, and Evaluation of Toxaphene	3-3

3.2.4	Asbestos	3-3

3.3	Bioavailability Factors	3-3

3.4	Assessment of Lead	3-4

3.4.1	Use of IEUBK Model to Assess Risks to Children	3-4

3.4.2	Use of the Adult Lead Methodology	3-5

3.5	Approach for Potential Mutagenic Effects	3-5

4.0 Exposure Assessment	4-1

4.1	Characterization of Exposure Setting	4-1

4.2	Identification of Exposure Pathways	4-1

4.2.1	Residential Scenario	4-2

4.2.2	Trespasser Scenario	4-2

4.2.3	Excavation or Construction Worker Scenario	4-2

4.2.4	Commercial/Industrial Scenario	4-2

4.3	Quantification of Exposure	4-3

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4.4	Concentration Term	4-3

4.4.1 Concentration Term in Groundwater	4-4

4.5	Ingestion	4-4

4.6	Dermal Contact	4-5

4.7	Inhalation	4-5

4.8	Vapor Intrusion (VI)	4-5

4.8.1	Risk Assessment for Vapor Intrusion (VI)	4-5

4.8.2	Technical Support Documents for Vapor Intrusion (VI)	4-6

4.9	Exposure to Volatile Organic Chemicals (VOCs) During Showering	4-7

4.10	Exposure Frequency	4-7

4.11	Exposure Duration	4-7

4.12	Use of the Fraction Ingested (FI) Term	4-7

5.0 Risk Characterization	5-1

6.0 Chemicals of Concern and Remedial Goals	6-1

6.1	Preliminary Remediation Goals (PRGs)	6-1

6.2	Chemicals of Concern	6-1

6.3	Site-Specific Remedial Goals	6-2

6.4	Remediation Levels	6-3

7.0 Bibliography	7-1

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%

ADAF

ALM

ARAR

bgs

BRA

CalEPA

CERCLA

COC

COPCs

CSM

DQO

EFH

EPA

EPC

ERA

FI

FS

ft

HHRA
HI
HQ
IC

IEUBK
IR

IRIS
ISM
ITRC
IUR

kg

K40

MARS SIM

MCL

^g/L

Acronyms and Abbreviations

percent

age-dependent adjustment factor
Adult Lead Methodology

applicable or relevant and appropriate requirement
below ground surface
Baseline Risk Assessment
California Environmental Protection Agency

Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act

chemical of concern

chemicals of potential concern

Conceptual Site Model

Data Quality Objectives

Exposure Factors Handbook

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

exposure point concentration

ecological risk assessment

fraction ingested

Feasibility Study

feet/foot

Human Health Risk Assessment
hazard index
hazard quotient
institutional control

Integrated Exposure Uptake Biokinetic Model
ingestion rate

Integrated Risk Information System

Incremental Sampling Methodology

Interstate Technology & Regulatory Council

Inhalation Unit Risk

kilogram

potassium-40

Multi-Agency Radiation Survey & Site Investigation Manual
Maximum Contaminant Level
micrograms per liter

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m3/|ig

mg/kg

mg/kg/day

mg/m3

MMOA

NTU

osc

OLEM

OSWER

PAH

PCB

PCDD

PCDF

PRG

RAGS

RCRA

RfC

RfD

RI

RL

ROD

RPM

RSL

SAP

SESD

SSL

SSRG

sss

SFI

SOP

TCDD

TEF

TRW

TSS

Acronyms and Abbreviations (continued)

cubic meter per microgram

milligrams per kilogram

milligrams per kilogram per day

milligrams per cubic meter

mutagenic mode of action

Nephelometric Turbidity Unit

On-Scene Coordinator

Office of Land and Emergency Management

Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response

polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon

polychlorinated biphenyls

polychlorinated dibenzodioxin

polychlorinated dibenzofurans

Preliminary Remediation Goal

Risk Assessment Guidance for Superfund

Resource Conservation and Recovery Act

reference concentration

reference dose

Remedial Investigation

remediation level

Record of Decision

Remedial Project Manager

Regional Screening Level

Sampling and Analysis Plan

Science and Ecosystem Support Division

Soil Screening Level

Site Specific Remedial Goal

Scientific Support Section

slope factors for inhalation

Standard Operating Procedure

2,3,7,8 -tetrachl orodib enzodi oxin

Toxicity Equivalence Factor

Technical Review Workgroup

Technical Services Section

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Acronyms and Abbreviations (continued)

UCL	upper confidence limit

VI	vapor intrusion

VOC	volatile organic compounds

WQC	Water Quality Criteria

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1.0 Introduction

This guidance has been developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Region 4 Superfund Division's Scientific Support Section (SSS), previously known as the
Technical Services Section or TSS, risk assessment staff to update and replace all previous
Region 4 Human Health Risk Assessment (HHRA) bulletins and to supplement the Agency
guidance documents on site-specific HHRA: the Risk Assessment Guidance for Superfund
(RAGS), Volumes I, II and III (EPA, 1989a, 1989b, 2001a). RAGS was developed as
broad guidance, and the purpose of this Region 4 guidance document is to clarify and
extend RAGS as interpreted and applied in Region 4 for Superfund and Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) sites.

This supplemental guidance provides direction and does not constitute rulemaking by the
Agency. The intent of this guidance is to aid in the development of high-quality risk
assessments consistent with the expectations of the SSS in its oversight role.

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2.0 Data Collection and Evaluation

One objective of the data collection and evaluation efforts at Comprehensive
Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) and Resource
Conservation & Recovery Act (RCRA) sites is to produce data of sufficient and known
quality for use in a HHRA. Each site is unique; therefore, data collection strategies for one
site may not be appropriate for another site.

2.1	Data Collection

To ensure that Baseline Risk Assessment (BRA) data needs are met, those needs must be
evaluated early in the site planning stage. The data necessary for conducting a defensible
BRA, in many cases, is a subset of the data required for adequate characterization of a
hazardous waste site. The following documents provide useful tools for developing the
Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP):

•	Risk Assessment Guidance for Superfund (RAGS). Human Health Evaluation
Mam t A. (EPA, 1989a; Chapters 4 & 5).

•	Guidance for Data Usability in Risk Assessment (EPA. 1992).

•	Data Quality Objectives Process for Hazardous Waste Site Investigations (EPA.
2000a).

•	Risk Assessment Guidance for Superfund (RAGS). Human Health Evaluation
Mam it D. Section 2.2 (EPA, 2001b).

•	Guidance for Choosing a Sampling Design for Environmen ta Collection
(EPA, 2002a)

•	Supplemental Soil Screening Guidance (EPA, 2002b)

•	Metals Risk Assessment Guidance (EPA, 2007a)

•	Field Branches Quality System and Technic; Ares (periodically updated)

•	Incremental Sampling Methodology (Interstate Technology & Regulatory Council
[ITRC], 2012)

2.2	Developing a Soil Sampling Strategy

The EPA Region 4 utilizes the Science and Ecosystem Support Division (SESD) Standard
Operating Procedures (SOPs); Field Branches Quality System and Technica idures
(and most recent procedural updates) to guide soil sampling strategies during a field
investigation. The Region also supports the use of the Incremental Sampling Methodology
(ISM) developed by the ITRC as a tool to investigate contaminated soils (Incremental

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Sampling Methodology [IR.TC 2012]). The table below represents the different types of
soil sampling that may be appropriate for specific sites depending on your data quality
objectives (DQOs).

Typical soil sample methods used at lead-contaminated sites

Discrete
Samples

Discrete samples can be collected from biased or random sample
locations. The samples are collected from a single location, and they
are typically mixed in the field and placed into sample containers
specified by the analytical method. The sample volume and additional
sample processing can vary.

Composite
Samples

A typical composite sample is assembled from a small number (e.g.,
five) of discrete samples that are combined in the field. The component
discrete samples are typically collected in a quincunx pattern from
samples that may or may not be of equivalent size/mass. The samples
are typically mixed in the field and placed into sample containers
specified by the analytical method. The sample volume and additional
sample processing can vary.

Incremental
Samples

Incremental samples (incremental composite, multi-increment) are
structured samples that provide an unbiased, reproducible estimate of
the mean of a given volume of soil (e.g., decision unit). An incremental
sample is assembled from a large number (i.e., 30-100) of samples of
equivalent size/mass (increments) collected from random/systematic
random locations across the decision unit. The process typically yields
large samples (> 1 kilogram [kg]). Additional sample processing (in
the field or laboratory) and subsampling is usually
required. Specialized sampling and subsampling tools are needed to
properly sample and subsample soils.

OLEM Directive 9200.1-128, Recommendations for Sieving Soil and Dust Samples at
Lead Sites for Assessment of Incidental Ingestion (EPA 2016), recommends sieving soils
to <150 |im (#100 sieve). While this guidance is specifically for lead investigations, it's
recommendations could be useful for investigations of sites with other metals
contamination in soils. Sieving is not required for every sample, but at least a sub-set of
samples should be sieved to determine if results differ after sieving is done.

Region 4 has also developed a Field Operations Guide (FOG) for using an XRF to collect
high quality data for the investigation of lead and arsenic-contaminated sites. The Region
supports the use of XRF for decision making at Superfund sites (including use in risk
assessments), provided that the quality of the data can be adequately demonstrated. Use of

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the Region 4 FOG or similar data quality demonstration procedures is recommended.

For radionuclides, the Multi-Agency Radiation Survey & Site Investigation Manual
(MARSSIM, 2000) is the guidance used for surface soil sampling for characterization,
remedial support surveys, and final status surveys.

2.2.1 Evaluation of Soil Pathways

As discussed in the Supplemental Soil Screening Guidance for Developing Soil Screening
Levels for Superfund Sites (EPA, 2002b), exposure to contaminants in surface soils and
subsurface soils is likely to occur via different mechanisms. Therefore, sampling plans for
these two categories of soil should be designed to collect reliable, usable data appropriate
for modeling exposure based on the Conceptual Site Model (CSM) and Data Quality
Objectives (DQOs).

The depth to which samples need to be collected for adequate characterization of "surface
soil" depends on the CSM and the contaminants of interest. The Supplemental Soil
Screening Guidance (EPA. 2002b) states that surface soils "are located within two
centimeters of the ground surface." Exhibit 1-1 of this document defines surface and
shallow sub-surface soils as a pathway of concern for on-site residents and outdoor
workers. For this reason, the Region generally considers soil from 0-12 inches as available
for direct human contact for these exposure scenarios and refers to soil in this depth interval
genetically as "surface soil." If site-specific activities, such as gardening, suggest a
potential for exposure to soil at depths greater than 0-12 inches for residential and outdoor
worker scenarios, the definition of surface soil can be expanded to accommodate these
considerations. However, the Region typically does not consider soil deeper than 2 feet
below land surface to be "surface soil" for most residential or worker exposure scenarios.
Residential and outdoor worker scenarios typically do not include direct exposure to
subsurface soils.

Subsurface soil exposures at depths greater than those discussed above are defined as
potential pathways of concern for construction workers in Exhibit 1-1 (EPA, 2002b). The
Region typically considers soil from the bottom of the defined depth of surface soil up to
10 feet below land surface as "subsurface soil." Exposure to subsurface soil is evaluated
via the construction and/or utility (excavation) worker scenario, which usually has a shorter
exposure duration and/or exposure frequency but more contact intensive exposure to soils

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than other exposure scenarios. A utility worker (usually lower exposure frequency than
onsite worker) can also be evaluated for direct contact exposure to subsurface soil.

2.3	Detection Limits

Detection limits/quantitation limits should be reviewed before the SAP is completed to
determine if any exceed levels of concern for human health. For chemicals, Region 4 SSS
recommends using the most current version of EPA's Regional Screening Levels (RSLs)
for Chemical Contaminants at Superfund Sites (EPA, 2017a [or the most recent update])
to evaluate whether analytical methods proposed in the SAP will be adequate for risk
assessment purposes. If quantitation limits for any chemical(s) exceeds its screening value,
SSS should be consulted before moving ahead with sampling/analysis. For radionuclides,
use the Rad ionuclide Toxicity £ liminary Remediation Goals (PRGs) for Superfund
or the Soil Screening Guidance for Radionuclides (EPA, 2000b) and its associated
calculation tool.

2.4	Turbidity in Groundwater

Low-flow/low stress sampling protocols, developed by EPA and others, should be used to
minimize turbidity and to collect representative unfiltered groundwater samples for
analysis. Samples with greater than 10 nephelometric turbidity units (NTUs) are not
typically recommended for use in the BRA.

2.5	Data Evaluation

Chapter 5 of RAGS Part A (EPA, 1989a) includes a discussion on the data evaluation
process and should be consulted during the development of the SAP as well as the BRA.
The data evaluation process includes screening detected contaminants against risk-based
screening levels to identify Chemicals of Potential Concern (COPCs), which are then
carried through the risk assessment process.

2.6	COPC Selection Process

SSS recommends the following basic process to identify COPCs: All concentrations of
each chemical detected in a site sample/media should be compared to the appropriate
screening level. For chemicals, SSS recommends using the most current version of EPA's
Regional Screening Levels (RSLs) for Chemical Contaminants at Superfund Sites (EPA,
2017a [or most recent update]) for selecting COPCs. For radionuclides, use the
Radionuclide Toxicity and Preliminary Remediation Goals (PRGs) for Superfund (EPA,
2018 [or most recent update]).

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For screening purposes, it is Region 4 policy to use screening values based on the lower of
the lxlOE"6 or a Hazard Quotient (HQ) of 0.1.

•	The data for each chemical should be sorted by medium. For this purpose, surface
soil and subsurface soil should be considered as separate media.

•	For any data which have qualifiers, decide if the qualified data should be retained.
Do not eliminate data based on "J" qualifiers.

•	Present a table with all detected chemicals similar in content to the format of the
RAGS P (EPA, 2001b) example tables 2.

2.6.1 Basis for Retaining or Eiiminating a Chemical as a COPC

The chemical is naturally occurring and detected in background samples. For

naturally occurring inorganics and radionuclides, Region 4 has traditionally
recommended comparing the on-site maximum detected concentration to 2 times
the average site-specific background concentration. The chemical can be
eliminated as a COPC if it is less than 2 times the average background level. The
number of appropriate background samples should be determined on a site-specific
basis. This process is a policy-based screening that recognizes that statistically-
based background data sets may not be available.

The Guidance for Comparing Background and Chemical Concentrations in Soil for
CERCLA Sites recommends statistical methods for characterizing background
concentrations of chemicals in soil (EPA, 2002c). This guidance can be applied on
a site-specific basis where background samples have been collected using a
statistically valid approach.

•	The chemical is also detected in blank samples. Current Region 4 policy is that
COPCs may be eliminated based on comparison to blanks as described in
RAGS P (EPA, 1989a). Please note that there may be special circumstances
that RAGS Part A does not address, such as comparing a blank of one matrix to
samples of another (e.g., a water equipment blank which relates to a group of soil
samples). EPA should be consulted regarding such special circumstances.

•	The maximum detected concentration of the chemical is below the screening
level.

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Surface Soil. Compare maximum detected concentrations in surface soils to the
residential screening values for soil contact determined at a risk level of lxlO"6 or
HQ level of 0.1. Eliminate the chemical as a COPC for human exposures if the
concentration is less than the screening level.

Subsurface Soil. Compare maximum detected concentrations in subsurface soils to
industrial screening values for soil determined at a risk level of lxlO"6 or HQ level
of 0.1, assuming the CSM reflects current/future potential exposure to
utility/construction worker only. Eliminate the chemical as a COPC for direct
contact human exposures if the concentration is less than the screening level. For
protection of groundwater, subsurface soil concentrations should be evaluated
against leachability-based screening levels. This evaluation should be provided in
the fate and transport portion of the Remedial Investigation (RI)/Feasibility Study

Groundwater. Compare maximum detected concentrations in groundwater to the
tap water values determined at a risk level of lxlO"6 or HQ level of 0.1. Eliminate
the chemical as a COPC for human exposures if the concentration is less than the
screening level. Drinking Water Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) are not
an appropriate basis for eliminating COPCs from the risk assessment, but a
chemical should be kept as a COPC if its MCL is exceeded.

Surface Water. Compare maximum detected concentrations in surface water to the
Water Qual	teria (WQC) for human health (consumption of water &

organisms; EPA, 2015 [or most recent update]). Eliminate the chemical as a COPC
for human exposures if the concentration is less than the screening level. If a WQC
is not available for a chemical, use the RSLs for tap water or an appropriate health-
based state value as the screening level value.

Sediment. Compare maximum detected concentrations in sediments to the
residential screening values for soil ingestion determined at a risk level of lxlO"6 or
HQ level of 0.1. Eliminate the chemical as a COPC for human exposures if the
concentration is less than the screening level. Section 4 of this document should be
consulted regarding the appropriateness of sediment exposure assessment relative
to selection of COPCs for sediments.

(FS).

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Air. Compare maximum detected concentrations in air to the residential air
screening level determined at a risk level of lxlO"6 or HQ of 0.1. The industrial air
screening values should be used for comparison to the air levels for worker
scenarios.

Soil Gas. For more detailed information on EPA's vapor intrusion (VI) analysis,
see Section 4.8 of this document.

Radionuclides. Radionuclides should be screened against the appropriate media-
specific values contained in the PRGs for Radionuclides.

The chemical is an essential nutrient. Screening for non-site related essential
nutrients in all media should be based on professional judgment. The only
chemicals which may be eliminated based on essential nutrients are calcium,
chloride, iodine, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and sodium. However, these
chemicals may pose a risk if present at high concentrations. If this is the case,
consultation with SSS staff is advised before elimination of these chemicals.

Review the list of eliminated chemicals. Evaluate if any previously eliminated
chemical or medium should be included due to other considerations (e.g., potential
break-down products, chemicals previously eliminated based on blank
comparisons, chemicals with detection limits above health-based levels).

For each medium, determine whether there are any COPCs remaining. If no COPCs
remain, drop the medium from further consideration in the risk assessment. The chemicals
selected by this process are retained for further risk evaluation in the BRA. A table should
be provided for summarizing these COPCs.

Frequency of detection should not be used as a criterion for eliminating chemicals from the
BRA without EPA Region 4 approval.

For radionuclides, potassium-40 (K40) is often a naturally occurring radionuclide, and is
not often site-related. K40 can always be dropped from COPCs. Other naturally occurring
radionuclides may be dropped on a site-by-site basis.

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3.0 Toxicity Assessment/Chemical-Specific Issues

The toxicity assessment presents and discusses chemical-specific quantitative dose-
response data for the COPCs. Toxicity values for use in a HHR.A. should be selected based
upon the hierarchy provided in Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response (OSWER)
Directive 9285.7-53 (EPA, 2003a). Additional assistance with selecting Tier 3 toxicity
values is provided in the Tier 3 Toxicity Value White Paper (EPA, 2013a).

There may be cases where a toxicity value is not available in any of the sources discussed
above. When a chemical does not have a toxicity value, the value of a chemical that is
related both chemically and toxicologically (i.e., structure-activity relationship), may
sometimes be appropriate to use as a surrogate. Any surrogates should be approved by
EPA prior to BRA submission.

There are chemicals for which chronic toxicity values or surrogate values are not available.
Such a chemical may come to be considered a potential risk driver at a site based on its
relatively high acute toxicity. Although a quantitative risk estimate cannot be made for
chemicals without toxicity values, the chemical should not be excluded as COPCs on this
basis. Instead, the implications of the presence of chemicals without toxicity values should
be discussed in the Uncertainty Section of the BRA.

3.1 Presentation of Toxicity Values

Toxicity values used in the risk assessment are best presented in a table. Example tables
can be found in	les 5 and 6 (EPA. 200 lb). Screening Levels Tables [e.g.,

RSLs, PRGs, etc.] should not be cited as a source of toxicity values. The original source
of each toxicity value should be cited.

A short description of all known toxic effects of each COPC in non-technical language
should be included in the toxicity assessment. For non-carcinogens, this description should
identify the critical effect and the dose or concentration at which adverse effects in humans
are not expected. For carcinogens, the description should discuss the range of tumor types
observed. For both cancer and non-cancer endpoints, the discussion should include
whether the toxicity value was derived from human or animal data.

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3.1.1	Inhalation Toxicity Values

Oral/Inhalation Route-to-Route Extrapolation

Previous versions of regional screening tables did contain some route-to-route
extrapolation, because of the scarcity of inhalation toxicity factors. With the now standard
approach for derivation of reference concentrations (RfCs), routine route-to-route
extrapolation has been discontinued.

Reference Concentrations (RfCs) and Inhalation Unit Risks (IURs)

In the past, some regional tables converted RfCs to reference doses (RfDs) and IURs to
slope factors for inhalation (SFIs). This was initially done because risk equations once
relied upon RfDs and SFIs in units of milligrams per kilograms per day (mg/kg/day) and
1/mg/kg/day, respectively. However, as the inhalation guidance has evolved, RfCs and
IURs, in units of milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3) and cubic meter per microgram
(m3/|ig) respectively have become the recommended toxicity factors. RAGS Part F-
Supplemental Guidance for Inhalation Risk Assessment (EPA, 2009) has further discussion
on this issue.

3.1.2	Dermal Toxicity Values

The Office of Land and Emergency Management's (OLEM) approach to quantifying the
risk posed by exposure to contaminants via the dermal route is presented in RAGS P

Supplemental Guidance for Dermal Risk Assessment (EPA, 2004).

3.2 Toxicity of Special Chemicals

3.2.1 Dioxins and Furans

Dioxin is the "shorthand" name for 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzodioxin (TCDD). This is the
most potent of a series of related polychlorinated dibenzodioxin (PCDDs) and
polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs). This compound and its related congeners are
often of special concern to EPA because dioxin has been shown in human epidemiological
studies to be toxic at relatively low doses, and may also be a potent carcinogen (the EPA
currently has no cancer slope factor for dioxin on the Integrated Risk Information System
[IRIS]; California EPA [CalEPA] has cancer potency values [tier 3] for ingested and
inhaled dioxin/furan). In general, the quantitative toxicity of the different PCDD and
PCDF congeners depends on the number and arrangement of the chlorine atoms on the
dibenzodioxin or dibenzofuran ring structures. For more information, see Use of Dioxin
Toxii iivalence Factors fTEFs) in calculating Dioxin TEQs at CERCLA and RCRA
Sites (EPA. 2013b).

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EPA has developed several tools to help risk assessors and risk managers evaluate whether
it is necessary to perform a detailed investigation of dioxins in site media. For more
information, visit the EPA, dioxin toolbox and the Fact Sheet on the Management of Dioxin
Contaminated Soils (EPA. 2011a).

3.2.2	Approach to Sampling, Analysis, and Evaluation of Polychlorinated
Biphenyls (PCBs)

An Issue Paper was developed by Region 4's SSS to provide Project Managers, On-Scene
Coordinators (OSCs) and technical staff with a recommended approach for evaluating and
characterizing PCBs in groundwater, soil and sediment to inform remedy selection. To
learn more, please visit our website: EPA Region 4 Technical Services Section Issue Paper
for PCBs Characterization at Region 4 Superfund and RCRA Sites.

3.2.3	Approach to Sampling, Analysis, and Evaluation of Toxaphene

The pesticide toxaphene is similar to PCBs in that it is a commercial mixture of many
chemically similar compounds. If toxaphene is a potential chemical of interest at your site,
contact a Region 4 risk assessor to discuss the latest methods for sampling, analysis, and
evaluation.

3.2.4	Asbestos

The Framework for Investigati lestos-Contaminated Superfund Sites (EPA, 2008)
provides details for collecting data and conducting a risk assessment at sites contaminated
with asbestos. These methods may be different from the sampling and analytical methods
used by other EPA programs. Consultation with Regional staff familiar with the
Framework is recommended prior to conducting investigations at asbestos contaminated
sites. When conducing a Five-Year Review of a site that may contain asbestos
contamination, the recommendations provided in the memorandum Assessing
Protectiveness for Asbestos Sites: Supplemental Guidance to Comprehensive Fh ;
Review Guidance (EPA, 2009d) should be consulted and followed.

3.3 Bioavailability Factors

The actual bioavailability of environmental chemicals is usually not determined in the risk
assessment process. Health-based toxicity values are typically developed using intake
levels (i.e. administered doses in controlled animal studies). The portion that is actually
absorbed by the receptor, therefore bioavailable, is not necessarily determined in these
studies. Hence, the actual bioavailability is irrelevant as long as risk conclusions are based
on comparisons between calculated human intakes and toxicity values developed from

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administered doses (i.e., equivalent and appropriate dose-response comparisons).

A default assumption of 100 percent (%) bioavailability (relative to that of the toxicity
study), with the exception of arsenic and lead, is to be used unless a consultation with
Region 4 SSS determines otherwise.

EPA has developed some medium-specific default values for the bioavailability of metals
which are included in the Guidan	luating the Bioavailability of Metals in Soils

for Use in HHRAs (EPA, 2007c). In addition, EPA has an OSWER directive (9200.1-113)
which provides Recommendations for Default Value for Relative Bioavailability of
Arsenic in Soil (EPA, 2012a). Where applicable, collecting site-specific bioavailability
data for lead and arsenic is recommended.

3.4 Assessment of Lead

In the case of lead, human exposure and risk are characterized using a different approach
than other chemicals. This is because lead exposure is evaluated using a biokinetic model
and risk is interpreted in terms of predicted blood lead concentration rather than a HQ.
EPA's Technical Review Workgroup (TRW) for lead has developed extensive guidance
on how to evaluate risks from lead, and all of this information is available at the TRW
website.

The health-based screening level for lead in residential soil, please refer to the Regional
Screening Level tables and the health-based action level for lead in drinking water is
15 micrograms per liter (|ig/L). If either of these levels is exceeded, the Integrated
Exposure Uptake Biokinet	) Model for Lead in Children (EPA, 2009b) or most

recent version, and the Adult Lead Methodology (ALM; EPA, 2017b) can be used as
appropriate to assess the site-specific risks and to help set remedial levels. Additional EPA
guidance is available at the following website: https://www.epa.gov/superfund/lead-
superfund-sites-guidance and
https://semspub.epa.gov/work/08/18842Q4.pdf

3.4.1 Use of IEUBK Model to Assess Risks to Children

In residential locations and other areas where young children are exposed to lead, EPA
recommends the use of the IEUBK Model for Lead in Children to evaluate exposures from
lead-contaminated media and to derive predicted blood lead levels.

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3.4.2 Use of the Adult Lead Methodology

When young children are not expected to be present at a site (e.g., a workplace), the
population of concern is the adult (e.g., a worker). While both males and females are
susceptible to adverse effects from excess lead exposure, the female of child-bearing age
is the sub-population of chief concern, since exposure of the pregnant female can result in
exposure of the fetus in utero. The EPA has developed the ALM for evaluating the
potential risks from lead in pregnant females.

3.5 Approach for Potential Mutagenic Effects

For COPCs that act via a mutagenic mode of action (MMOA), cancer risks should be
estimated using age-dependent adjustment factors (ADAFs), that are consistent with cancer
guidelines and supplemental guidance (EPA, 2005a; 2005b). The default ADAFs used to
adjust the CSFs are 10 for 0-2 year olds, 3 for 2 to <16 year olds, and 1 (i.e., no adjustment)
for receptors 16 years of age or older.

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4.0 Exposure Assessment

The objective of the exposure assessment is to estimate the type and magnitude of
exposures to chemicals of potential concern present at or migrating from a site. The
exposure assessment should include the following sections.

•	Characterization of Exposure Setting

•	Identification of Exposure Pathways

•	Quantification of Exposure

Unless site-specific exposure inputs are appropriate, the latest national Superfund default
exposure assumptions should be used. The current recommended values can be found as
Static fault Exposure Factors.

4.1	Characterization of Exposure Setting

The general physical characteristics of the site and of the populations on and near the site
should be presented in this section. Populations should be addressed relative to those
characteristics that influence exposure, such as location and activity patterns. In addition,
the presence of sensitive subpopulations should be discussed, e.g., children, women of
child-bearing age, etc. Current receptors as well as potential future receptors should be
considered.

4.2	Identification of Exposure Pathways

This section should identify the pathways by which the identified populations may be
exposed. A CSM should be developed for each site. The CSM should include known and
suspected sources of contamination, types of contaminants and affected media, known and
potential routes of migration, and known or potential human and environmental receptors.
In addition to the narrative discussion of pathways, a figure following the format of the
example presented in Chapter 2 (Figure 2-2) of the Guidance for Conducting Remedial
Investigations and Feasibility Studies Under CERCLA (EPA, 1988) should be presented.
Institutional controls ([ICs] e.g., fences or guards) should not be used as the justification
for elimination of a pathway in the BRA for current or future scenarios. However, ICs may
be used in the determination of exposure frequency for current exposure. The following
scenarios should be used as appropriate.

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4.2.1	Residential Scenario

A residential scenario (current or future) should be included in the BRA. There are cases
where future residential land use is unlikely (e.g., an industrial area expected to remain
industrial or a wetland). In those cases, the risk calculated for a residential scenario is used
to establish the need for land use controls at the site to prevent future residential
development. Thus, if a future residential scenario is not included in the risk assessment,
a justification should be presented and prior approval from the Remedial Project Manager
(RPM) should be obtained.

If the groundwater is considered to be potentially potable according to state regulations,
the future consumption of groundwater for residential purposes must be evaluated
regardless of its current use. Inhalation of chemicals volatilized from groundwater (vapor
intrusion) into homes and ambient air should also be considered.

4.2.2	Trespasser Scenario

The evaluation of current exposure scenarios at most sites should include the trespasser or
visitor scenario. Region 4 considers the typical trespasser to be an adolescent aged 7-16
(10-year exposure duration) with a body weight of 45 kg as representative of this age range.
Trespasser exposure frequency should consider site-specific factors such as distance from
the site to residences and the attractiveness of the site to the trespasser.

4.2.3	Excavation or Construction Worker Scenario

It may be useful to include an excavation/construction worker as a future scenario in the
BRA. Typically, the construction worker represents an excavation worker or other worker
who may have intensive contact with subsurface soil up to 10 feet (ft) below ground surface
(bgs) through digging for a relatively short duration. Alternatively, a utility worker may
be exposed to subsurface soil for a lower exposure frequency, but for a higher exposure
duration (e.g. 25 years). Site-specific considerations, such as a shallow water table or
known construction plans, should be considered in establishing the applicable soil profile
for potential exposure. For scenarios with sub-chronic durations, sub-chronic toxicity
values should be used, if available.

4.2.4	Commercial/industrial Scenario

The commercial or industrial worker is typically evaluated as a current scenario or in
anticipation that at some point in the future the site will be redeveloped. The parameters

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used for the commercial/industrial worker can be considered site-specific factors, if
available, pending EPA concurrence.

4.3	Quantification of Exposure

Chemical-specific exposure for most complete exposure pathways should be presented in
terms of the mass of substance in contact with the body per unit/body weight per unit time
- most often as mg chemical per kg body weight per day or mg/kg/day. These exposure
estimates are termed "intakes." Standard intake equations are presented in Chapter 6 of
RAGS P (EPA, 1989a).

The "exposure unit" concept should be considered in the development of the exposure
assessment. An exposure unit denotes a real extent of a receptor's movements during the
time period of interest - analogous to the idea of a home range used in an ecological risk
assessment (ERA). For example, a young child under the age of 6 will probably range over
the area of a typical residential lot (less than an acre) where a maintenance worker at a
large industrial facility may move about the entire facility. This concept is important in
determining which samples should be included in the calculation of the exposure point
concentration (EPC).

EPA has established default assumptions for many parameters in an effort to establish
consistency (See OSWER Directive 9200.1 -20. Also, Table 1 of the RSI website's User's
Guide (EPA, 2016) can be consulted for default versus site-specific values. Site-specific
values are allowed to be used to evaluate current exposures or other site-specific
considerations, but prior approval of the RPM and/or Region 4 risk assessor is
recommended.

4.4	Concentration Term

The concentration term in the intake equation is an estimate of the arithmetic average
concentration for a chemical contacted by a receptor within an exposure unit over a time
scale appropriate for the toxic effect of the chemical. Ideally the EPC should be the true
average concentration within the exposure unit. However, because of the uncertainty
associated with estimating the true average concentration at a site, the 95 percent upper
confidence limit (UCL) of the arithmetic mean should be used as the concentration term.
The EPA has developed software (ProUCL) that computes the UCL for a given data set by
a variety of statistical approaches (including several approaches that do not require the
assumption of normality or lognormality) and then recommends specific UCL values as

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being the most appropriate for that particular data set. The software and User's Guide for
ProUCL may be obtained at the following.

Note: There is a substitution method for replacing non-detect concentrations with
a value of half the detection limit for non-detected concentrations samples in
accordance with EPA guidance (EPA, 1992). For a variety of reasons, however,
detection limits may be elevated for a given sample and/or may vary between
samples. For these and other considerations, alternative methods of accounting for
non-detects (such as Maximum Likelihood Estimation, Kaplan-Meier, and other
statistical methods) in data sets should be considered.

4.4.1 Concentration Term in Groundwater

Region 4 recommends that the groundwater exposure point concentration should be
calculated in accordance with Determining Groundwater Exposure Point Concentrations,

OSWER Directive 9283.1-42.

Chemical degradation or attenuation should not be considered in the BRA unless site and
chemical-specific data are available and prior approval from the RPM and SSS is obtained.

4.5 Ingestion

Default soil and water ingestion rates (IRs) can be found in the OLEM Directive, Update
of Stand;ml Ocfault Exposing t si--tors (2014).

Sediments in an intermittent stream should be considered as surface soil for the portion of
the year the stream is without water. In most cases it is unnecessary to evaluate human
exposures to sediments that are always covered by surface water. Worker exposure to
potable water can be assessed based on a current or potential future scenario. However,
for the purposes of establishing risk-based remedial goals, drinking water should also be
assessed using residential use assumptions.

Fish ingestion is highly variable and site-specific intake assumptions are most desirable.
When site-specific data are not available, EPA's Expos stor's Handbook: 2011
Version (EPA, 201 lb) provides default fish IRs for: the general population, recreational
marine and freshwater anglers and Native American subsistence fish populations. The
Office of Water has a default IRs for recreationally caught fish that is used to derive the
human health based water quality criteria (EPA 2015). This value can be used in Superfund
human health risk assessments. For specific guidance on inputs, a site-specific consultation

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with regional risk assessors is recommended.

4.6	Dermal Contact

The areas of the body receiving exposure to the specific media should be considered and
summed to obtain the skin surface area. The RAGS P Supplemental Guidance for
Dermal Risk Assessment provides methods to determine the surface area of each portion
of the body which is exposed (EPA, 2004). Surface area inputs to the model should be
based on data in the Exposure Factors Handbook (EFH) 2011. Default assumptions can be
found in Update of Standard Default Exposure Factors.

The dermal pathway is not used for evaluation of radionuclides.

4.7	Inhalation

Inhalation rates are no longer needed for risk assessment calculations. (See RAGS Part F
for more information.)

4.8	Vapor Intrusion (VI)

VI is the general term given to migration of hazardous vapors from any subsurface
contaminant source, such as contaminated soil or groundwater, through the vadose zone
and into indoor air. The route volatile organic compounds (VOCs) take from a subsurface
source to the air inside a building is referred to as the VI pathway. When VOCs present in
soil gas migrate to the interior of a building and reach concentrations that could pose a
potentially unacceptable health risk, the pathway is considered "complete." For sites where
soil or groundwater concentrations result in the potential for migration of vapors to indoor
air, additional tools and methodologies may be considered on a site-specific basis and
implemented as appropriate. If trichloroethylene is a known or suspected COPC, it may
be necessary to take prompt actions if women of child-bearing age are or could be present
at the site. The Region 4 SSS should be contacted regarding approval of all site specific
approaches and specific sampling strategies.

4.8.1 Risk Assessment for Vapor Intrusion (VI)

OSWER's Technical Guide for Assessing and Mitigating tfc ithwav from Subsurface
Vapor Sources to In do (2015) provides technical and policy recommendations on
determining if the VI pathway poses an unacceptable risk to human health at cleanup sites.
We recommend collecting indoor air, ambient air, and sub-slab/crawlspace samples. This
data should be screened against the appropriate Regional Screening Level/Vapor Intrusion

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Screening Level (VISL). If RSLs/VISLs are exceeded, site-specific determinations are
needed. Consult with your project manager and/or SSS.

At sites where environmental concentrations fall below screening levels, no further action
or study may be warranted if supported by multiple lines of evidence, including: (EPA
2015)

site-specific data verify that the subject property reflects the conditions and
assumptions of the generic model underlying the VISLs

hydrogeologic information (in addition to sampling data) support assessments of
the vapor intrusion pathway

Multiple rounds of groundwater (or soil gas) sampling results support conclusions
that a specific vapor source is stable or shrinking and/or is not expected to pose a vapor
intrusion concern under reasonably expected future, as well as current, conditions.

But in most cases, at least two rounds of VI data is needed. EPA generally recommends
that a human health risk assessment should be conducted to determine whether the potential
human health risk posed to building occupants by a complete or potentially complete vapor
intrusion pathway are within or exceed acceptable levels, consistent with applicable
statutes and considering EPA guidance. The primary purpose of this risk assessment is to
provide risk managers with an understanding of the actual and potential risks to human
health posed by vapor intrusion under current and reasonably expected future conditions.
Depending on building-and site-specific circumstances, an early action may be needed. See
Sections 3.3 and 7.8 of OSWER Publication 9200.2-154 for additional information on
when it may be appropriate to implement mitigation of the vapor intrusion pathway as an
early action even though all pertinent lines of evidence have not yet been completely
developed.

4.8.2 Technical Support Documents for Vapor Intrusion (VI)

EPA's technical information pertaining to VI approaches and policy recommendations
include:

•	creening Level Calculator

•	I leniently Asked Questions about \ i. (EPA, 2015)

•	Background Indoor Air Concentrations of Vola game Compounds in North
American Residences (1990-2005) (EPA, 201 lc)

•	)atabase: Evaluation and Characterization of Attenuation Factors for
Chlorinated Volatile Organic Compounds and Residential Buildings (EPA, 2012b)

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• Conceptual Model Scenarios for the VI Pathway (EPA, 2012c)

4.9	Exposure to Volatile Organic Chemicals (VOCs) During
Showering

Region 4 accepts the default assumption that inhalation and dermal exposure from
showering is equivalent to exposure from the daily ingestion of contaminated water per
day (EPA, 1991a; Jo et al. 1990). In addition, shower/bath models can be used with EPA
Region 4 approval. For example, Region 4 has approved the use of the Foster &
Chrostowski model (2003) for this pathway. Other approaches for assessing the
shower/bath pathway should be approved by regional risk assessors during document
scoping.

4.10	Exposure Frequency

Default exposure frequency factors are highlighted for key exposure scenarios in Update
of Standard Default Exposing I actors. Current exposure assumptions should represent a
conservative estimate of actual occurrences as accurately as possible. As a default, Region
4 believes swimming frequency in the southeast should be at least 45 days/year. However,
for backyard swimming pools, in the southern portion of the region, a substantial increase
in exposure frequency over the 45 days/year should be considered based on site specific
information. Region 4 recommends that a backyard swimming pool or coastal areas use
an exposure frequency of 90 days/year.

4.11	Exposure Duration

Exposure duration default assumptions are included in Update of Standard Default
Exposure Factors for typical exposure scenarios. Please refer to RAGS, Part A (2010),
Chapters 7 and 8 where it states "chronic RfDs... pertain to lifetime or other long-term
exposures and may be overly protective if used to evaluate the potential for adverse
health resulting from substantially less-than-lifetime exposure. " Section 8.2.1 defines
chronic exposure and sub-chronic exposure.

4.12	Use of the Fraction Ingested (Fl) Term

Region 4 SSS should be consulted regarding the use of a fraction ingested (FI) term less
than 100 percent. A FI of 100% should be used except in assessments of highly
contaminated areas significantly smaller than the exposure unit and in the evaluation of
exposures to intermittent streams.

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5.0 Risk Characterization

Risk Characterization is the final step of the risk assessment process. It should be
developed with thought to communicating risk information to risk managers who may have
minimal training in risk assessment and the biological sciences. Chapter 8 oi	irt

A, should be followed in developing the human health risk conclusions (EPA, 1989a).

The risk characterization section brings the toxicity/potency data and the exposure data
together in an expression of quantitative risk estimates for all receptors considered in the
BRA. Appropriate tabulation of this information is extremely important for clear
communication to the reader.

Cancer risk values and hazard index (HI) values may express more than one significant
figure, but for decision-making purposes one significant figure should be used.

As important as these numbers are in the remedial decision, this section of the risk
assessment is incomplete without adequate discussion of uncertainty and the qualitative
aspects of the assessment. The text should flow as a logical discussion of science and
policy assumptions that led to the risk conclusions for all COPCs and/or COCs whether or
not quantitative values could be derived.

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6.0 Chemicals of Concern and Remedial Goals

Throughout the process of remediating a hazardous waste site, a risk manager uses a
progression of increasingly site-specific acceptable media levels, so called "cleanup
levels," for the consideration of remedial alternatives. Region 4 SSS suggests that a range
of Site-Specific Remediation Goals (SSRGs) be presented for the risk manager's use as the
last component of the risk assessment. From the SSRGs, the risk manager chooses
remediation levels for the Chemicals of Concern (COCs), and these numbers are addressed
in the FS and are included in the Proposed Plan and the Record of Decision (ROD).

This bulletin details the development of SSRGs and acceptable media levels that will
ultimately become remediation levels (RLs), aka cleanup goals, for the COCs.

6.1	Preliminary Remediation Goals (PRGs)

PRGs are either risk-based levels of hazardous chemicals in various environmental media,
or applicable or relevant and appropriate requirement (ARARs). PRGs may be established
early in the RI process, usually at scoping, and serve as the basis for the RI SAP. Region
4 recommends the use of the RSLs (based on carcinogenic risk of lxlO"6 or HQ of 1) for
risk-based PRGs. Use of PRGs will determine if (1) proposed analytical methods will have
adequate quantitation limits to achieve these risk-based levels; (2) the site will be
adequately characterized; and (3) the remedial alternatives being considered can achieve
risk-based levels.

PRGs based on ARARs (e.g., drinking water MCLs) should be clearly identified. RSLs
should be used as risk-based PRGs, but they are not intended to be default remediation
levels.

6.2	Chemicals of Concern

COCs are the COPCs that significantly contribute to an exposure pathway for a receptor
(e.g. hypothetical future child resident, current youth trespasser, current adult construction
worker, etc.) that either (a) exceeds a lxlO"4 cumulative site cancer risk; or (b) exceeds a
non-carcinogenic HI of 1. Note: generally, a cumulative site risk level exceeding lxlO"4
and target organ His exceeding 1 are used as the remediation "triggers." The carcinogen
"trigger" represents the summed risks to a receptor considering all exposure pathways and
environmental media. The HI represents the total of the HQs of all COPCs in all pathways,
media, and routes to which the receptor is exposed. If the total receptor HI exceeds 1, then

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more precise His should be developed for each target organ and/or toxic effect. These target
organ-based His should form the basis for the COC selection.

Chemicals are not considered as significant contributors to risk and therefore are not
included as COCs if their individual carcinogenic risk contribution is less than lxlO"6 and
their non-carcinogenic HQ is less than 0.1 (See Sections 2.5 and 2.6 for more on COPCs).

6.3 Site-Specific Remedial Goals

The BRA should include a section that outlines the SSRGs for the chemicals and media of
concern. This section should include both identified ARARs (e.g. MCLs) and human
health-based cleanup goals for all media considered.

The SSRGs section should contain a table of media-specific cleanup levels for each COC
in each land use scenario evaluated in the BRA. The table should include potential cleanup
levels for lxlO"6, lxlO"5 and lxlO"4 cancer risk levels for each carcinogenic COC. The
table should also include potential cleanup levels for each non-carcinogenic COC at HQ
levels of 0.1, 1 and 3.

Region 4 has adopted the HQ range of 0.1 to 3 to span the uncertainty, perhaps an order of
magnitude or greater, inherent in the reference dose (RfD) (RAGS, p. 7-5). The range of
cleanup levels is provided to address specific chemicals for which the use of an HQ greater
or less than 1 may be justified.

These potential SSRGs should be presented for each COC in each medium and use
scenario. The table should also contain any chemical-specific, health-based ARARs (state
and Federal), appropriate groundwater protection levels, state guidance concentrations and
any other cleanup numbers that may pertain.

This table permits the risk manager to view the potential cleanup goals in a relatively
condensed way. The purpose is to provide the risk manager with a range of risk-related
media levels as a basis for developing remediation aspects of the FS and Proposed Plan or
the Corrective Measures Study.

RAGS, Part B (EPA, 1991b) PRG calculations and RSLs are not appropriate for the
development of SSRGs because they do not consider site-specific exposure information.

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6.4 Remediation Levels

Remediation levels (RLs) are chosen by the risk manager for COCs and are included in the
Proposed Plan and the ROD. These values, derived from SSRGs or chemical specific
ARARs, are considered the levels the remedial action needs to achieve in order to be
protective of human health risks. If a chemical specific risk-based value other than lxlO"6
for carcinogens or HQ of 1 is recommended and/or selected as the RL, the FS, Proposed
Plan, and ROD should provide a justification.

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7.0 Bibliography

CPF Associates, Inc., Sarah A. Foster, Paul C. Chrostowski, prepared for Syracuse
Research Corporation, Syracuse, NY, EPA Grant No. CR-83109201-0. Integrated Human
Exposure Model, Version 2 (IHEM2) for Volatile Organic Compounds. December 26,

EPA, 1988. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Guidance for Conducting Remedial
Investigations and Feasibility Studies Under CERCLA, (RI/FS), EPA/540/G-89/004,
October 1988. https://semspub.epa.gov/work/ll/174075.pdf

EPA, 1989a. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Risk Assessment Guidance for
Superfund (RAGS), Volume I, Human Health Evaluation Manual (Part A), Interim Final,
Office of Emergency and Remedial Response, Washington, DC, EPA/540/1-89/002, 1989.

http://www.epa.eov/oswer/riskassessment/raesa/index.htm

EPA, 1989b. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Risk Assessment Guidance for
Superfund (RAGS): Volume II Environmental Evaluation Manual Interim Final, Office
of Emergency and Remedial Response, Washington, DC, EPA/540/1-89/001, March 1989.

http s: //rat s. ornl. gov/docum ents/RASUPE V. pdf

EPA, 1991a. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Guidance on Estimating Exposure
to VOCs during Showering. Memo from Dorothy E. Patton, Riak Assessment Forum Chair,
to F.Henry Habicht, Risk Assessment Council Chair, Office of Research and Development,
July 10, 1991.

EPA, 1991b. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Risk Assessment Guidance for
Superfund (RAGS), Volume I, Human Health Evaluation Manual (Part B), Development
of Risk-based Preliminary Remediation Goals. Interim, Office of Emergency and
Remedial Response, Washington, DC, EPA/540/R-92/003, 1991.
https://www.epa.gov/risk/risk-assessment-guidance-superfund-rags-part-b

2003.

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EPA, 1992. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Guidance for Data Usability in Risk
Assessment (Part A), Final, Office of Emergency and Remedial Response, Washington,
DC, April 1992, Publication 9285.7-09A.
https ://rai s. ornl. gov/documents/U SERISKA.pdf

EPA, 2000a. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Data Quality Objective Process for
Hazardous Waste Site Investigations, EPA QA/G-4HW, Final, Office of Environmental
Information, Washington, DC, EPA/600/R-00/007, January 2000.
http ://www. epa. gov/qualitv/q s-docs/ g4hw-final .pdf

EPA, 2000b. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Radiation and Indoor Air,
Soil Screening Guidance for Radionuclides: Technical Background Document,
Washington, DC, EPA/540-R-00-006, October 2000.

http://www.epa.eov/superfimd/health/contaminants/radiation/pdfs/tbd-part-0-clean.pdf

EPA, 2001a. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Risk Assessment Guidance for
Superfund: Volume III - Part A, Process for Conducting Probabilistic Risk Assessment,
Office of Emergency and Remedial Response, Washington, DC, EPA 540-E-02-002,
December 2001. https://www.epa.gov/risk/risk-assessment-guidance-superfund-rags-
volume-iii-part

EPA, 2001b. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Risk Assessment Guidance for
Superfund (RAGS), Volume I, Human Health Evaluation Manual (Part D), Standardized
Planning Reporting and Review of Superfund Risk Assessments. Final, Office of
Emergency and Remedial Response, Washington, DC, Publication 9285.7-47, 2001.
https://www.epa.gov/risk/risk-assessment-guidance-superfund-rags-part-d

EPA, 2002a. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Guidance for Choosing a Sampling
Design for Environmental Data Collection, EPA QA/G-5S, Final, Office of Environmental
Information, Washington, DC, EPA/240/R-02/005, December, 2002.
https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2015-Q6/documents/g5s-final.pdf

EPA, 2002b. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Supplemental Guidance for
Developing Soil Screening Levels for Superfund Sites, Office of Solid Waste and
Emergency Response, Washington, DC, OSWER 9355.4-24, December 2002.
https://archive.epa.gov/region9/superfund/web/pdf/ssg nonrad supplemental.pdf

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EPA, 2002c. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Guidance for Comparing
Background and Chemical Concentrations in Soil for CERCLA Sites, Office of Emergency
and Remedial Responses, Washington, DC, EPA 540-R-01-003, September 2002.
https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2015-ll/documents/background.pdf

EPA, 2002d. OSWER Draft Guidance for Evaluating the Vapor Intrusion to Indoor Air
Pathway from Groundwater and Soils (Subsurface Vapor Intrusion Guidance), Office of
Solid Waste and Emergency Response, Washington, DC, EPA530-D-02-004, November
2002. http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/hazard/correctiveaction/eis/vapor/complete.pdf
EPA, 2003a. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Human Health Toxicity Values in
Superfund Risk Assessments, Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response, OSWER
Directive 9285.7-53.

https://fortress.wa.eov/ecy/clarc/FociisSheets/httpwwwepaeovoswerriskassessmentpdfhh
memo.pdf

EPA, 2003b. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Adult Lead Methodology, Office of
Solid Waste and Emergency Response, EPA-540-R-03-001, OSWER Directive 9285.7-54,
January 2003. https://semspub.epa.gov/work/HO/174559.pdf

EPA, 2004. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Risk Assessment Guidance for
Superfund (RAGS), Volume I, Human Health Evaluation Manual (Part E), Supplemental
Guidance for Dermal Risk Assessment Final, Office of Emergency and Remedial
Response, Washington, DC, EPA/540/R/99/005, 2004.
https://www.epa.gov/risk/risk-assessment-guidance-superfund-rags-part-e

EPA. 2005a. Supplemental Guidance for Assessing Susceptibility from Early-Life
Exposure to Carcinogens. Risk Assessment Forum, Washington, D.C. EPA/630/R-
03/003F. https://www3.epa.eov/airtoxics/childrens supplement fimat.pdf

EPA. 2005b. Guidelines for Carcinogen Risk Assessment. Risk Assessment Forum,
Washington, D.C. EPA/630/P-03/001F.

https://www3.epa.eov/airtoxics/cancer guidelines final 3-25-05.pdf

EPA, 2007a. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Framework for Metals Risk
Assessment, Office of the Science Advisor, Washington, DC, EPA 120/R-07/001, 2007.
https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2013-Q9/documents/metals-risk-assessment-

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Region 4 Supplemental Guidance
Table of Contents

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Superfund Division

final.pdf

EPA, 2007b. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Radionuclide Toxicity and
Preliminary Remediation Goals for Superfund, November 2007. https://epa-
prgs.oml.gov/radioriuclides/

EPA, 2007c. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Guidance for Evaluating the
Bioavailability of Metals in Soils for Use in HHRA, Office of Emergency and Remedial
Response, Washington, DC, May 2007. https://semspub.epa.gov/work/HQ/175333.pdf
EPA, 2008. Framework for Investigating Asbestos-Contaminated Superfund Sites.
Asbestos Committee of the Technical Review Workgroup of the Office of Solid Waste and
Emergency Response. OSWER Directive #9200.0-68. September 2008.
https://semspub.epa.eov/work/HQ/175329.pdf

EPA, 2009b. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Integrated Exposure Uptake
Biokinetic Model for Lead in Children, Windows version (IEUBK win vl.l build 11) June
2009. https://www.epa.eov/siiperfimd/lead-siiperfimd-sites-software-and-iisers-mamials

EPA, 2009c. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Risk Assessment Guidance for
Superfund Volume I: Human Health Evaluation Manual (Part F, Supplemental Guidance
for Inhalation Risk Assessment). January 2009.

https://www.epa.eov/risk/risk-assessment-euidance-superfimd-raes-part-f

EPA, 2009d. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Assessing Protectiveness for
Asbestos Sites: Supplemental Guidance to Comprehensive Five-Year Review Guidance,
Office of Superfund Remediation and Technology Innovation and the Office of Solid
Waste and Emergency Response, OSWER Directive #93355.7-7-03B-P, October 2009.

https://semspiib.epa.eov/work/HQ/175326.pdf

EPA, 2010. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Review of the Draft 2002 Subsurface
Vapor Intrusion Guidance. Office of Emergency and Remedial Response, 2010.

http://www.epa.eov/oswer/vaporintrusion/documents/review of 2002 draft vi guidance
final.pdf

EPA, 201 la. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Fact Sheet on the Management of
Dioxin Contaminated Soils. May 9, 2011. https://semspub.epa. gov/work	f

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Region 4 Supplemental Guidance
Table of Contents

Scientific Support Section
Superfund Division

EPA, 201 lb. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Exposure Factor's Handbook: 2011
Version (Final). 2011.

http://cfpub.epa. eov/ncea/risk/recordisplav.cfm?deid=236252

EPA, 2011c. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Background Indoor Air
Concentrations of Volatile Organic Compounds in North American Residences (1990-
2005): A Compilation of Statistics for Assessing Vapor Intrusion, EPA 530-R-10-001 June

2011.

https://www.epa.eov/vaporintmsion/backeroimd4ndoor-air-concentrations-volatile-
organic~compounds~north~american

EPA, 2012a. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Recommendations for Default Value
for Relative Bioavailability of Arsenic in Soil, OSWER 9200.1-113, December 2012.

http://www.hawaiidoh.ore/references/USEPA%202012c.pdf

EPA, 2012b. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, EPA's Vapor Intrusion Database:
Evaluation and Characterization of Attenuation Factors for Chlorinated Volatile Organic
Compounds and Residential Buildings, EPA 530-R-10-002, March 2012.
https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2Q15-

09/documents/oswer 2010 < database report. 03 I	final with erratum 5 08. pdf

EPA, 2012c. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Conceptual Model Scenarios for the
Vapor Intrusion Pathway, EPA 530-R-10-003, February 2012.

https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2Q15~Q9/documents/vi~crm \ I Hum! J J I

2012.pdf

EPA, 2013a. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Tier 3 Toxicity Value White Paper,
Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response, OSWER Directive 9285.7-86, May 16,

2013.	https://www.epa.eov/sites/production/files/2015~l 1 /documents/tier3-toxicitvvalue-
whitepaper.pdf

EPA, 2013b. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Use ofDioxin TEFs in calculating
Dioxin TEQs at CERCLA andRCRA Sites, 2013.

https://archive.epa.eov/reeion9/superfund/web/pdf/dioxin.pdf

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Region 4 Supplemental Guidance
Table of Contents

Scientific Support Section
Superfund Division

EPA 2015. Update of Human Health Ambient Water Quality Criteria. U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Water/Office of Science and Technology.
Updated June 2015. https://www.epa.gov/wqc/national-recommended-water-qualitv-
criteri a-hum an-h ealth-criteri a-table

EPA, 2015. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, OSWER Final Guidance for Assessing
and Mitigating the Vapor Intrusion Pathway from Subsurface Sources to Indoor Air
(ExternalReview Draft), June 2015.

https://www.epa.eov/sites/prodiiction/files/2015-09/dociiments/oswer-vapor-intmsion-
technical-guide-final.pdf

EPA, 2016. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Recommendations for Sieving Soil
and Dust Samples at Lead Sites for Assessment of Incidental Ingestion, OLEM Directive
9200.1-129, July 1, 2016. https://semspub.epa.eov/work/HQ/100(	;

EPA, 2017a (or most recent update). U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Regional
Screening Levels (RSLs) for Chemical Contaminants at Superfund Sites, 2013.

https://www.epa.eov/risk/reeional-screenine-levels-rsls-eeneric-tables-iime-2017

EPA, 2017b. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Superfund Vapor Intrusion
Guidance, http://www.epa.gov/vaporintrusion

ITRC, 2012. The Interstate Technology & Regulatory Council, Technical and Regulatory
Guidance:	Incremental Sampling Methodology, February 2012.

http ://www.itrcweb. org/T eam/Public?teamID=11

Jo, W. K., Weisel, C. P. and Lioy, P. J. 1990. Chloroform Exposure and the Health Risk
Associated with Multiple Uses of Chlorinated Tap Water. Risk Analysis, 10: 581-585.
doi: 10.1111/j. 1539-6924.1990.tb00542.x. 1990.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.eov/pubmed/2287785

MARSSIM, 2000. Multi-Agency Radiation Survey & Site Investigation Manual
(MARSSIM), August 2000. https://www.epa.gov/radiation/multi-agencv-radiation-
survev-an d-site-investi gati on -m anual -m ars sim

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