So, before you can even develop it, you need to conduct a thorough investigation to find out what you are up against. This can be done through a contaminated sites report.
What Properties Can Be Considered Contaminated Sites?
Generally, properties used for commercial and industrial purposes have environmental risks. However, there are certain businesses that can be considered more harmful such as those properties used as a factory for chemicals in the past, an industrial facility, a former gas station, manufacturing sites, and many more.
What is Done During Contaminated Sites Assessment?
What is included in the contaminated sites report? First, they will conduct an investigation on the history of the property. What was the property used for in the past? This investigation of the history will determine whether there were hazardous activities done on the property before. It does not only help reveal potential contamination issues but will also make it easier to determine the source.
Once that is done, a more detailed inspection of the site is conducted. This is done by checking for visual signs such as leaks in the water sources, discoloration of the soil, and visible remnants of hazardous particles.
The professionals who will conduct the contaminated sites report in Vancouver will also take samples of the water and the soil. This will then be sent to a laboratory where it will be analyzed for potential contaminants. Some of the most common hazardous materials found in these sites are petroleum materials and heavy metals but many chemicals can also be found.
Groundwater will also be tested. They will check for its quality and if there are pathogens in it. They will also look for potential contamination sites. For instance, if there are nearby farmlands where the pesticides used will be washed and mixed in the groundwater source, they can be contaminated.
If there is already a structure, they will also conduct indoor air testing. This will determine if there are problems like molds lurking on the site. Indoor air safety is often overlooked but could be the potential culprit for many undiagnosed health issues.
With the help of companies such as Next Environmental, potential threats on the site can be addressed. Taking this step before doing anything will go a long way in reducing your worries and maximizing your investments.