Phase 2 land quality assessments

Intrusive investigation is used to confirm or eliminate potential pollutant linkages, the conceptual model can then be modified to reflect the conditions on site.

Where pollutant linkages are identified a risk assessment is required.

Requirements of phase 2 land quality assessments

The intrusive investigation should include as a minimum:

• Summary of conclusions of phase 1
• Refined conceptual site model
• Sampling strategy - a clear sampling strategy enables the local authority to understand the thought processes behind the sample locations
• Results of preliminary risk assessment
• Details of preparatory works for investigation
• Sample results, including chain of custody and summary of work done
• Analysis
• Plan of sample locations
• Results of quantitative risk assessment (including worksheets to support any assessment criteria that are not already published)

Relevant guidance for phase 1 land quality assessments

The guidance information listed below can be found on the links to the right of this page.

• CLR 11 Model procedures for the management of land contamination
• The National Planning Policy Framework
• Guidance on requirements for land contamination reports from the Environment Agency
• The Building Regulations 2000: Site preparation and resistance to contaminants and moisture: Approved document C
• Guidance for the safe development of housing on land affected by contamination from National House Building Council (NHBC), Environment Agency and Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH)
• Soil guideline values from the Environment Agency
• Toxicological reports from the Environment Agency
• BS 10175: 2001 investigation of potentially contaminated sites: code of practice.
• CIRIA 659 assessing risks posed by hazardous ground gases to buildings
• Guidance on evaluation of development proposals on sites where methane and carbon dioxide are present from the National House Builders Council (HNHBC)
• The UK approach for evaluating human health risks from petroleum hydrocarbons in soils

These lists are not exhaustive and act as a guideline only. You should satisfy yourself that all information relevant to site is included.

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