Risk-based volume delineation is a low-impact alternative to traditional soil excavation that leverages investigative data to save time, expense, and environmental impact.
This approach considers what residual levels for risk drivers can remain at a site following cleanup such that a level of No Significant Risk can be achieved and demonstrated. This protective, end game-oriented method can be employed in regulatory programs that permit risk-based closure, including numerous state programs, and federal programs such as USEPA CERCLA, RCRA or TSCA.
It is customary to apply either default regulatory cleanup goals or risk-based goals in remediation planning. However, the application of these goals on a point-by-point basis can result in unnecessary volume removal and associated costs. Alternatively, cleanup volumes and subsequent residual levels at a site can be calculated using a risk-based approach that still achieves compliance and protection of health and the environment.
In some applications Woodard & Curran has successfully leveraged risk-based volume delineation to reduce excavation volume and cost by upwards of 30 to 40 percent. Lower excavation volumes reduce transport and disposal expenses and lighten the load on the environment. Contact us today to discuss whether your site is a candidate.
