Case Studies
J.S. Held Acquires Shechter & Everett to Expand Forensic Accounting Capabilities for Family Law Disputes in Florida
Read MoreA school site undergoing a Comprehensive Modernization Program required evaluation and management of soil possibly impacted by chemicals of potential concern related to historical use of the property. Our experts were engaged to conduct a Preliminary Environmental Assessment-Equivalent (PEA-E), prepare a Removal Action Workplan (RAW), oversee contaminant removal activities, and complete a Removal Action Completion Report (RACR).
The site investigation included soil borings and soil vapor probe installation to identify areas with concentrations exceeding preliminary screening levels. Arsenic and lead were identified as the primary chemicals of concern at multiple locations across the site and the only chemicals present at concentrations above health risk- or health hazard-based screening levels at the site.
Our experts conducted the PEA-E by advancing 119 initial soil borings, 33 step-out borings, and installing 15 soil vapor probes. We completed an additional nine borings to evaluate an expanded project area. Based on the investigation results, the RAW identified arsenic and lead as chemicals of concern, with cleanup values of 12 mg/kg and 80 mg/kg, respectively, and selected excavation with off-site disposal as the most feasible removal approach. Elements of the RAW included development of a sampling and analysis plan, a traffic and waste hauling plan, and a site-specific Health and Safety Plan.
Our team directed the implementation of the removal action, including planning and execution of 17 excavations, waste characterization, confirmation sampling, soil screening using X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and air monitoring. Excavation activities used a combination of mini-excavation and hand-digging methods, with utility clearance performed using geophysical techniques and protective measures implemented around site features designated to remain in place.
Five excavation areas were modified based on confirmation of sampling results, and constraints limited further expansion in certain locations. Post-removal statistical analysis was conducted at the 95 percent upper confidence level of the mean to evaluate residual concentrations.
Air monitoring confirmed dust levels remained below allowable limits. Excavated areas were restored using fill materials. The removal action was completed within the established schedule and budget. Remedial excavation at two locations on-site that could not be completed at the time due to remnant building structures impeding additional excavation was subsequently completed.
> Environmental Risk and Compliance
Our team provides expert advice in the identification and mitigation of risk in environmental matters and develops solutions to deliver ongoing EHS regulatory compliance and independent monitoring.
> Environmental, Health, and Safety
J.S. Held provides environmental, health, and safety consulting and expert services spanning environmental damage and remediation, environmental due diligence, energy transition, toxicology and epidemiology, industrial hygiene, product stewardship and product liability, and human health and safety.
