This British Standard provides guidance on, and recommendations for, the investigation of potentially contaminated land or land with naturally enhanced concentrations of potentially harmful materials, to determine or manage the ensuing risks. It covers:
—setting the objectives of an investigation;
—setting a strategy for the investigation;
—designing the different phases of the investigation;
—sampling and on-site testing;
—laboratory analysis;
—reporting;
in order to obtain scientifically robust data on soil, groundwater, surface water and ground gas contamination.
It is intended for use by those with some understanding of the risk-based approach to sites and site investigations.
The relevant guidance and recommendations within this standard should be selected to ensure that the objectives of an investigation are achieved and that adequate data for the risk assessment are obtained. However, it is not feasible to provide detailed guidance for every possible investigation scenario.
This British Standard does not give recommendations on certain constraints or problems that can affect a site, such as geotechnical aspects, [which are covered by BS 5930 (see 7.2)], or the legal aspects, including the need for licences, permits, etc.
It does not include any procedures for the formal assessment of the potential risks posed by contaminated land. However, attention is drawn to the guidance published by CIRIA in SP103 [11] and CIWEM [47].
NOTE The Handbook of Model Procedures [12] which is in the process of development by the DETR and the Environment Agency, will also be a source of guidance on risk assessment when published.
When relevant, this standard can be used in conjunction with other standards and codes of practice for combined investigations, such as in conjunction with geotechnical investigations.