Preliminary Site Risk Assessment

The purpose of a preliminary ground contamination risk assessment, also known as a Phase 1 Desk Study or Preliminary Risk Assessment, is to identify and evaluate the potential risks and liabilities associated with contamination at a site.

The assessment aims to: 

• Determine the likelihood of contamination sources being present 
• Identify potential contaminant linkages and assess the risks to sensitive receptors 
• Evaluate any constraints to the proposed development 
• Provide recommendations for further investigations or risk management measures 
• Inform decision-making and support the development of cost-effective and sustainable solutions 

A Phase 1 Desk Study typically includes a comprehensive review and analysis of readily available information, such as: 

• Historical maps and aerial photographs to identify past land uses and potential contamination sources 
• Geological and hydrogeological maps and data to understand the site’s ground conditions and potential contaminant migration pathways 
• Environmental database searches to identify any recorded contamination incidents, industrial activities, or landfills in the vicinity of the site 
• Regulatory records and planning history to identify any previous contamination assessments, remediation activities, or environmental permits associated with the site 
• Site reconnaissance and walkover survey to visually assess the current site conditions and identify any evidence of contamination or potential hazards 

A conceptual site model is a key component of the preliminary risk assessment process. It provides a simplified representation of the site’s environmental conditions, including: 

• Potential sources of contamination, such as former industrial activities, storage tanks, or spills 
• Pathways through which contaminants can migrate, such as soil, groundwater, or vapours 
• Receptors that may be affected by the contamination, such as site users, nearby residents, or ecological systems

The conceptual site model helps to identify and prioritise the potentially significant contaminant linkages that need to be assessed further. It forms the basis for evaluating the risks and determining the need for additional investigations or risk management measures. 

The potential outcomes of a preliminary ground contamination risk assessment can vary depending on the site-specific conditions and the findings of the assessment. Possible outcomes include: 

• Identification of potentially significant contamination risks that require further investigation through intrusive site investigations or detailed risk assessments 
• Confirmation that the contamination risks are low and that no further action is required 
• Recommendations for additional studies, such as ground gas monitoring or groundwater assessments, to better characterise the risks 
• Identification of data gaps or uncertainties that need to be addressed through further research or site-specific investigations 
• Recommendations for risk management measures, such as remediation, engineering controls, or institutional controls, to mitigate the identified risks 
• Guidance on the potential constraints or liabilities that the contamination risks may pose to the proposed development, such as increased costs, regulatory requirements, or timeline impacts 

The next steps after a preliminary ground contamination risk assessment will depend on the findings and recommendations of the assessment. Possible next steps may include: 

• Conducting intrusive site investigations, such as soil and groundwater sampling, to further characterise the contamination risks and refine the conceptual site model 
• Undertaking detailed quantitative risk assessments to evaluate the potential impacts of the identified contamination on human health, controlled waters, or ecological receptors 
• Developing a remediation strategy to address any unacceptable risks and ensure that the site is suitable for its proposed use 
• Implementing risk management measures, such as engineering controls or monitoring programs, to mitigate the identified risks and ensure ongoing compliance 
• Engaging with regulators and stakeholders to discuss the assessment findings, agree on the appropriate course of action, and obtain any necessary approvals or consents 
• Proceeding with the development project, incorporating the recommendations and risk management measures identified in the assessment Lucion’s team of experts can provide guidance and support throughout the entire process, from the initial preliminary risk assessment to the successful completion of your development project. 

Lucion’s preliminary ground contamination risk assessment services can benefit your development project in several ways: 

• Identifying potential contamination risks early in the development process, allowing for proactive planning and decision-making 
• Providing a clear understanding of the technical and commercial challenges associated with the site, enabling informed budgeting and risk management 
• Helping to prioritise and scope further investigations or risk management measures, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently 
• Supporting regulatory compliance and planning applications by demonstrating due diligence and adherence to industry best practices 
• Facilitating the development of cost-effective and sustainable solutions that balance the environmental, social, and economic factors of the project 
• Providing expert advice and guidance throughout the assessment process, drawing on our team’s extensive experience and knowledge of contaminated land management