Vertex has extensive experience implementing risk-based approaches for contaminated sites. Risk-based approaches are founded on the risk assessment paradigm, wherein it is recognized that for risk from chemical contamination to exist all of the following elements must be present – a toxic substance, receptor, and active exposure pathway. The approaches used by Vertex generally fall within three separate categories:

  1. Modifying generic remediation guidelines based on the exclusion of exposure pathways and/or receptors that may not be operable at a particular site.
  2. Adjusting generic remediation guidelines using site-specific values for certain parameters (e.g. soil characteristics such as bulk density and fraction organic carbon).
  3. Developing site-specific remediation guidelines using quantitative environmental risk assessment.

Ultimately, risk-based approaches result in the development of site-specific remediation guidelines that are generally less stringent (i.e. higher) than generic guidelines. As such, sites can be managed with less effort and less cost while maintaining the same level of human health and environmental protection.

Case Studies

Commercial Development – Site Assessment and Remediation Project

Objective
Client was seeking reclamation certificates (four in total given the complexity of the site) on a former gravel quarry for a future residential neighborhood in large western Canadian urban centre.

Land Redevelopment – Risk Management and Remediation Program

Objective
Vertex was engaged by a Land Developer to review Environmental Concerns associated with a 500+ acre package of land in Calgary prior to development. Work was completed under the direction of Indigenous Services Canada.

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