Phase 1 Desk Study

A Phase 1 Desk Study, also known as a preliminary risk assessment, is a crucial step in the assessment of land contamination and suitability for development. A Phase 1 Desk Study involves gathering and analysing existing information about a site to identify potential contamination risks and inform the need for further investigation. The principal factors of a Phase 1 Desk Study include:

Site History

  • Reviewing historical maps and records to identify past uses of the site as part of the Phase 1 Desk Study
  • Identifying potential sources of contamination from previous industrial, commercial, or agricultural activities in the Phase 1 Desk Study
  • Analysing aerial photographs and planning records for historical land use patterns during the Phase 1 Desk Study

Geo-Environmental Setting:

  • Understanding the site’s geology, hydrogeology, and hydrology is essential in a Phase 1 Desk Study
  • Identifying natural contamination pathways, such as soil types and groundwater flow, within the Phase 1 Desk Study
  • Assessing proximity to sensitive receptors, including rivers, lakes, wetlands, or aquifers, during the Phase 1 Desk Study process

Current Site Condition

  • Conducting a site walkover to observe current land use and identify potential contamination sources as part of the Phase 1 Desk Study
  • Documenting visible signs of contamination, such as stains, waste piles, or chemical storage within the Phase 1 Desk Study
  • Noting site structures, surface materials, and infrastructure that could influence contamination spread as part of the Phase 1 Desk Study

Regulatory and Planning Information

  • Reviewing local, regional, and national planning policies and regulations relevant to the site during the Phase 1 Desk Study
  • Checking historical and current planning applications and permits as part of the Phase 1 Desk Study
  • Identifying any regulatory notices or enforcement actions related to contamination within the Phase 1 Desk Study

Previous Investigations:

  • Compiling data from any previous environmental investigations or site assessments as part of the Phase 1 Desk Study
  • Reviewing soil, water, and air quality data from earlier studies in the Phase 1 Desk Study
  • Analysing past remediation efforts during the Phase 1 Desk Study to assess effectivenes

Surrounding Land Use

  • Assessing the current and historical land use of adjacent properties within the Phase 1 Desk Study
  • Identifying potential off-site contamination sources that may impact the site as part of the Phase 1 Desk Study
  • Considering future land use changes in the surrounding area that could influence site conditions during the Phase 1 Desk Study

Consultations and Data Sources:

  • Consulting with local authorities, environmental agencies, and other stakeholders during the Phase 1 Desk Study for additional insights
  • Utilizing databases and information from environmental organizations, geological surveys, and pollution records in the Phase 1 Desk Study
  • Incorporating data from utilities, transportation, and infrastructure providers as part of the Phase 1 Desk Study

Conceptual Site Model (CSM)

  • Evaluating the potential risk to human health, the environment, and property based on gathered information as part of the Phase 1 Desk Study
  • Identifying potential pollutant linkages (source-pathway-receptor scenarios) through the Phase 1 Desk Study
  • Determining if further investigations (Phase 2) are necessary based on the preliminary findings of the Phase 1 Desk Study

The outcome of a Phase 1 Desk Study is typically a comprehensive report summarising the gathered information, identifying potential contamination risks, and recommending whether further site investigation (Phase 2) is warranted. This report is essential for developers, planners, and regulators in making informed decisions about land use and development projects.

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