Phase II Environmental Site Assessment reports are recommended when a potential source of contamination is identified during the Phase I (historical) Environmental Assessment of a property and building.
Phase II Environmental Assessments collect soil samples to screen for chemical or metal contamination. This sampling is conducted by drill rig, hydraulic push, hand auger or backhoe, depending on site-specific conditions and typically includes sampling of soil, groundwater and surface water. This testing is recommended when there is a significant potential for an environmental liability that can affect the value of a property. Environmental liabilities are costs associated with regulatory-mandated cleanup, regulated waste disposal, and civil liability. Civil liability occurs when the contamination has migrated offsite, or tenants sue over exposure to hazardous materials. The Phase II ESA may also be used as baseline studies to confirm contaminant background levels before construction, purchasing, or leasing a facility or property.
Essentially, a Phase II ESA is an investigation determining whether a contaminant of potential concern has negatively impacted the subsurface conditions at the site: “Yes, or no?” If the conclusion is “no,” the recommendation is “no further environmental work required at this time.” If the answer is “yes,” the recommendation is that “a Phase III ESA or Supplemental Phase II ESA is required to delineate the contamination, both vertically and horizontally.”
Choose peace of mind and accuracy – Contact WA Environmental Services Ltd. now for your thorough Phase II ESA. Be informed, be prepared, be secure!
