Geopartner possess considerable experience in the assessment of contaminated land using a variety of techniques. By combining professional expertise in the fields of hydrogeology, chemistry, geophysics, applied ecology, environmental science and computational modelling, we offer a comprehensive and flexible approach to all forms of ground assessment. This expertise is especially relevant to the assessment of ground which is known or suspected to be contaminated. We adopt a cost effective, pragmatic and staged approach that is designed to meet the needs of the client. Drawing on the full resources of Geopartner we can provide a One-Stop-Shop service for the client in all aspects of investigation, evaluation, design, construction and supervision.


The Approach

Geopartner approaches the assessment of land which is known or suspected to be contaminated by proceeding in logical stages. Full consultation at each stage ensures that costs are controlled whilst providing the client with sufficient information upon which to base both technical and commercial decisions.


The Stages

The stages that form the assessment are best illustrated by means of a flow diagram. The site-specific nature of contaminated land requires that a pragmatic and flexible approach is taken and this is equally applicable to derelict land, where the ground may be only lightly contaminated and major land reclamation schemes.
Desk Study

All assessment projects normally commence with a desk study and include a walkover survey of the site. Collation and interpretation of existing information provides an overview of potential problems and can lead to savings in later stages.
Ground Investigation

Investigation can be carried out using a variety of methods. The techniques which are adopted will normally be determined by the results of the desk study. Investigative works are carefully designed according to best practice guidelines, specific client requirements and using the skills and experience of the project team. Contractors as well as Geopartner team are required to comply with strict protocols and high standards.


Monitoring

We have extensive knowledge and experience in the design, supervision and interpretation of groundwater, surface water soil vapour, gas and leachate monitoring. Strict protocols relating to sampling and in-situ testing are applied to ensure the validity of results. The scope of monitoring required and its cost effectiveness in relation to time and expenditure constraints is also carefully defined according to the requirements of the client and the regulatory authorities. Results can be downloaded directly into our own in-house database which has been specifically developed for data analysis and interpretation.


Laboratory Analysis

Laboratory analysis to assess soil and groundwater contamination is usually the most expensive part of any investigation. The staged approach provides for testing to be scheduled to reflect the level of detail required and allow decisions to be made. Laboratories commissioned to undertake analytical work are inspected and assessed in accordance with required procedures, and regular check analyses are carried out on random samples. Results can be entered onto a database which generates graphs, contour plans and three dimensional ground models and reveals the extent and degree of contamination. Frequent survey cycles allow to analyse the dynamic of process changes.


Data Analysis and Modelling

The skills and experience of our specialist staff are combined with state-of-the-art computer software, to provide ground models which can be developed to simulate existing conditions and predict future patterns of potential contaminant migration. The 'source-pathway-target' approach is utilised fully to define boundary conditions for the development of conceptual and mathematical models of the ground. Results of analyses can be presented in a variety of ways to clearly illustrate the current and potential extent of contamination. Predictive models are calibrated against the results of past and ongoing monitoring in order to ensure reliable results.


Interpretation and Risk Assessment

The level of risk for a particular project often relates to the geographical location of the site, the proposed use of the land and the particular client requirements. Interpretation and risk assessment at each stage of the project allows the available facts to be to be assessed and the optimum course of action to be determined. Options at all times may include further investigation or monitoring and remedial works or even cessation of work. Regular discussions with the appropriate regulatory authorities are considered to be an integral part of the interpretation and risk assessment process. As a fully independent organisation we draw upon considerable expertise of dealing with the regulators and have constantly found this approach provides a positive contribution to the overall assessment process. The multi-disciplinary capabilities of the company cover geology, hydrogeology and hydrology as well as biology, ecology, chemistry and toxicology, and this wide range of skills allows complete assessment of the risks associated with any particular source-pathway-target combination.


Remediation

Geopartner specify, design and procure appropriate remedial works where the risk assessment indicates this is necessary. Our experienced environmental engineering group continually assesses the broad range of techniques available to provide solutions at an appropriate level of technology.