Site Remediation

Remediation of brownfields is required when contamination threatens the integrity of the natural environment and can be required when property use or ownership changes. More recently, legislative changes (O.Reg. 153/04) necessitate evaluation for some municipal rezoning (i.e., property redevelopment) even though the site is pristine. The scope of cleanups is regulated under O.Reg. 153/04, and depends on the type of contaminant, the physiography of the site, its proximity to sensitive receptors and ground water availability. Successful completion of a cleanup can be acknowledged by the Ministry of the Environment in a Record of Site Condition (RSC). Azimuth has successfully completed numerous RSC applications for our clients.

Azimuth has undertaken assessments and more importantly successful remediation for properties. These works have addressed a wide range of contaminants, including PCBs, NAPLs, microbial agents (i.e., E.coli, Giardia), dioxins and furans, petroleum products, solvents like TCE, road salt, heavy metals (i.e., chromium / lead) and complex conditions with mixed phases / contaminants.

Remediation is further complicated when the contaminants are present within fractured bedrock or straddle multiple aquifers, and we have developed considerable expertise in evaluating these environs. Azimuth has always placed a high priority on first understanding the hydrogeological conditions at a site because this defines how contaminants will move and react in the host environment, as well as the potential remedial techniques that will be effective. In some instances, no physical remediation may be required when the conditions of the site setting and contaminant(s) are considered (i.e., risk assessment / evaluation).