SANDIA REPORT 

SAND 2011-3958 

Unlimited Release 

Printed June 2011 

Site Environmental Report for 2010 

Sandia National Laboratories, California 

B.L. Larsen 

Prepared by 

Sandia National Laboratories 

Livermore, California 94550 

Sandia National Laboratories is a multi-program laboratory managed and 

operated by Sandia Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Lockheed 

Martin Corporation, for the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Nuclear 

Security Administration under Contract DE-AC04-94AL85000. 

Approved for public release, further dissemination unlimited. 
2

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3

SAND 2011-3958 

Unlimited Release 

Printed June 2011 

Site Environmental Report for 2010 

Sandia National Laboratories, 

California

Barbara L. Larsen 

Environmental Management Department 

Sandia National Laboratories, California 

7011 East Avenue 

Livermore, CA 94550 

ABSTRACT 

Sandia National Laboratories, California (SNL/CA) is a government-owned/contractoroperated laboratory. Sandia Corporation, a Lockheed Martin Company, manages and 

operates the laboratory for the Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security 

Administration (NNSA). The NNSA Sandia Site Office administers the contract and oversees 

contractor operations at the site. This Site Environmental Report for 2010 was prepared in 

accordance with DOE Order 231.1A (DOE 2004a). The report provides a summary of 

environmental monitoring information and compliance activities that occurred at SNL/CA 

during calendar year 2010. General site and environmental program information is also 

included. 
4

Acknowledgements

This report was prepared by the Sandia National Laboratories, California Environmental 

Management Department, and reviewed and approved by the Department of Energy, 

National Nuclear Security Administration, Sandia Site Office. The author acknowledges the 

following key contributors to the content, review, and production of this report. 

Karen Agogino 

Mark Brynildson 

Leslee Gardizi 

Janet Harris 

Robert Holland 

Gary Shamber 

Laura Tidwell 

Additional information about this report can be obtained from: 

Sandia National Laboratories, California 

Public and Media Relations Office 

P.O. Box 969 

Livermore, CA 94551-0969 

Attention: Mike Janes 

Phone: (925) 294-2447 

E-mail: mejanes@sandia.gov

Or

U.S. Department of Energy 

National Nuclear Security Administration 

Sandia Site Office 

P.O. Box 5400 

Albuquerque, NM 87185-5400 

Attention: Karen Agogino 

Phone: (505) 845-6100 

E-mail: kagogino@doeal.gov 
5

Contents

1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .....................................................................................................................11

1.1 OVERVIEW .........................................................................................................................................11

1.2 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT ......................................................................................................11

1.3 PERFORMANCE MEASURES ................................................................................................................11

1.4 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING.........................................................................................................12

2 INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................................13

2.1 HISTORY AND MISSION ......................................................................................................................13

2.2 LOCATION ..........................................................................................................................................13

2.3 SITE POPULATION ..............................................................................................................................15

2.4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING ................................................................................................................15

2.4.1 Geology and Soils .........................................................................................................................16

2.4.2 Hydrology and Water Resources ..................................................................................................17

2.4.3 Climate and Meteorology .............................................................................................................18

2.4.4 Ecology .........................................................................................................................................18

3 COMPLIANCE SUMMARY .................................................................................................................21

3.1 DOE ORDER 450.1A ..........................................................................................................................21

3.2 DOE ORDER 430.2B ..........................................................................................................................22

3.3 EXECUTIVE ORDER 13423 ..................................................................................................................22

3.4 EXECUTIVE ORDER 13514 ..................................................................................................................22

3.5 NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT.........................................................................................23

3.6 AIR QUALITY .....................................................................................................................................24

3.6.1 Clean Air Act ................................................................................................................................24

3.6.2 Radionuclide Emissions ................................................................................................................24

3.7 NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES .............................................................................................25

3.7.1 Endangered Species Act ...............................................................................................................25

3.7.2 Interim Protections for California Red-legged Frogs ..................................................................25

3.7.3 Migratory Bird Treaty Act ............................................................................................................25

3.7.4 Floodplain Management ...............................................................................................................26

3.7.5 Protection of Wetlands .................................................................................................................26

3.7.6 National Historic Preservation Act ..............................................................................................26

3.8 ENVIRONMENTAL RESTORATION .......................................................................................................27

3.8.1 Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act ...............................27

3.8.2 Site Clean-up Orders ....................................................................................................................27

3.9 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ...................................................................................................................28

3.9.1 Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act............................................................28

3.9.2 California Hazardous Materials Release Response Plans and Inventory Law ............................28

3.9.3 Underground Storage Tanks .........................................................................................................28

3.9.4 Toxic Substances Control Act .......................................................................................................29

3.9.5 Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act ...................................................................29

3.10 POLLUTION PREVENTION AND WASTE MINIMIZATION.......................................................................29

3.10.1 Pollution Prevention Requirements of DOE Order 450.1A .....................................................29

3.10.2 Hazardous Waste Source Reduction and Management Review Act .........................................30

3.10.3 Pollution Prevention Act ..........................................................................................................30

3.11 HAZARDOUS WASTE ..........................................................................................................................31

3.11.1 Federal Facility Compliance Act .............................................................................................31

3.11.2 Resource Conservation and Recovery Act ...............................................................................31

3.11.3 California Hazardous Waste Control Law ..............................................................................31

3.11.4 Medical Waste Management Act ..............................................................................................32

3.12 RADIATION PROTECTION....................................................................................................................32

3.12.1 Atomic Energy Act ...................................................................................................................32

3.12.2 DOE Order 435.1, Radioactive Waste Management ...............................................................32
6

3.12.3 DOE Order 5400.5, Radiation Protection of the Public and the Environment ........................33

3.13 WATER QUALITY AND PROTECTION...................................................................................................34

3.13.1 Clean Water Act .......................................................................................................................34

3.14 AUDITS, ASSESSMENTS, AND INSPECTIONS ........................................................................................35

3.15 ENVIRONMENTAL OCCURRENCES ......................................................................................................36

3.16 PERMITS .............................................................................................................................................37

4 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT ...............................................................................................38

4.1 EMS ELEMENTS.................................................................................................................................38

4.2 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE ......................................................................................................41

4.3 FUNCTIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS....................................................................54

4.3.1 Air Quality Program .....................................................................................................................54

4.3.2 Environmental Monitoring Program ............................................................................................55

4.3.3 Environmental Planning and Ecology Program ...........................................................................56

4.3.4 Hazardous Materials Management Program ...............................................................................56

4.3.5 Pollution Prevention and Waste Minimization Program ..............................................................58

4.3.6 Waste Management Program .......................................................................................................59

5 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING ..................................................................................................60

5.1 STORM WATER...................................................................................................................................60

5.2 WASTEWATER....................................................................................................................................63

5.2.1 Sewer Outfall ................................................................................................................................63

5.2.2 Liquid Effluent Control System .....................................................................................................64

5.2.3 Categorical Processes ..................................................................................................................65

5.3 GROUNDWATER .................................................................................................................................65

5.4 BIOLOGICAL DOSE ASSESSMENT........................................................................................................69

5.5 RADIATION MONITORING...................................................................................................................69

6 QUALITY ASSURANCE .......................................................................................................................72

6.1 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING QUALITY ASSURANCE .....................................................................72

6.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING .............................................................................................................72

6.3 SAMPLE ANALYSES ............................................................................................................................73

6.3.1 Accredited Laboratory ..................................................................................................................73

6.3.2 SNL/CA Health Physics Laboratory .............................................................................................73

6.3.3 SNL/NM Health Instrumentation Laboratory ...............................................................................73

6.4 DATA VERIFICATION AND VALIDATION .............................................................................................73

6.4.1 Quality Control Samples ...............................................................................................................73

6.4.2 Statistical Analyses .......................................................................................................................74

7 REFERENCES ........................................................................................................................................76

8 GLOSSARY .............................................................................................................................................81

9 ANALYTICAL RESULTS .....................................................................................................................83

10 DISTRIBUTION LIST ...........................................................................................................................92
7

Tables

Table 3-1 Status of EPCRA Reporting at SNL/CA, 2010 ....................................................................................28

Table 3-2 Order 5400.5 Compliance Summary, 2010..........................................................................................33

Table 3-3 Wastewater Discharge Permit Exceedances at Sanitary Sewer Outfall, 2010 .....................................34

Table 3-4 SNL/CA Audits, Assessments, and Inspections, 2010 .........................................................................36

Table 3-5 SNL/CA Environmental Permits and Orders, 2010 .............................................................................37

Table 4-1 Elements of the SNL/CA EMS Program ..............................................................................................39

Table 4-2 Comparison of 2010 Operations with SWEA Envelope ......................................................................57

Table 5-1 Summary of Analytical Results for Storm Water, 2009/2010 Wet Season ..........................................62

Table 5-2 Sewer Outfall Sampling Schedule, 2010 ..............................................................................................63

Table 5-3 Weekly Composite Sewer Outfall Monitoring Results – Physical Parameters and Metals, 2010 ........64

Table 5-4 Monitoring for Semiconductor Manufacturing Categorical Process, 2010 ..........................................65

Table 5-5 Groundwater Sampling Schedule, 2010 ...............................................................................................67

Table 5-6 Summary of Groundwater Analyses at Navy Landfill, 2010 ...............................................................67

Table 5-7 Summary of Groundwater Analyses at Arroyo Seco Wells, 2010 .......................................................68

Table 6-1 Summary of Statistical Analyses, 2010 ................................................................................................75

Table 9-1 Results of Groundwater Analyses at SNL/CA, 2010 ...........................................................................84

Table 9-2 Well Depth and Screen Period Interval ................................................................................................87

Table 9-3 Routine Monitoring Results for SNL/CA Sanitary Sewer Outfall, 2010 .............................................88

Table 9-4 Routine Monitoring Results for SNL/CA Sanitary Sewer Outfall, 2010 (Method E200.8) ................89

Figures

Figure 2-1 Regional Location Map ......................................................................................................................14

Figure 2-2 SNL/CA Site Map ...............................................................................................................................15

Figure 2-3 SNL/CA Topography ..........................................................................................................................16

Figure 2-4 Regional Earthquake Faults ................................................................................................................17

Figure 2-5 Habitat at SNL/CA..............................................................................................................................19

Figure 3-1 SNL/CA Carbon Footprint – 2010 ......................................................................................................23

Figure 4-1 Measurement of Excellence in Environmental Management..............................................................42

Figure 4-2 Weekly Composite Copper Concentrations in Wastewater ................................................................43

Figure 4-3 Weekly Composite Zinc Concentrations in Wastewater .....................................................................43

Figure 4-4 Annual Wastewater Discharges ..........................................................................................................44

Figure 4-5 Constituents in Storm Water, 2009/2010 Rainy Season .....................................................................45

Figure 4-6 Number of Vehicle Fill-ups on STA Days ..........................................................................................46

Figure 4-7 Procurement of Environmentally Friendly Products ...........................................................................47

Figure 4-8 SNL/CA Hazardous Material Inventory .............................................................................................48

Figure 4-9 Hazardous Waste Generated at SNL/CA ............................................................................................49

Figure 4-10 Radioactive Waste Generated at SNL/CA ........................................................................................50

Figure 4-11 Non-Hazardous Solid Waste Diverted From Landfill Disposal ........................................................51

Figure 4-12 Construction / Demolition Debris Diverted From Landfill Disposal ................................................51

Figure 4-13 SNL/CA Landfill Waste ...................................................................................................................52

Figure 4-14 SNL/CA Energy Consumption .........................................................................................................53

Figure 4-15 Water Consumption at SNL/CA .......................................................................................................54

Figure 5-1 Storm Water Sampling Locations .......................................................................................................61

Figure 5-2 Groundwater Monitoring Well Locations ...........................................................................................66

Figure 5-3 Dosimeter Locations at SNL/CA and Around Site Perimeter .............................................................70

Figure 5-4 Dosimeter Locations in Livermore Valley ..........................................................................................71
8

Preface

Each year, Sandia National Laboratories, California (SNL/CA) prepares a summary report to 

provide environmental information to the local community, pursuant to the requirements of 

Department of Energy Order 231.1A. The Site Environmental Report for 2010 summarizes 

SNL/CA’s compliance with environmental requirements, presents the results of monitoring 

and surveillance activities, and provides an update of site environmental programs. 

The Site Environmental Report for 2010 was prepared for ease in readability. Each chapter 

focuses on a specific topic or area. Reference to other sections and chapters is made 

throughout the report to avoid redundancy. Detailed data is provided only when necessary to 

improve the presentation of information and the quality of the document. Acronyms are 

defined within each chapter as well as listed at the beginning of the report. References are 

compiled into one list and presented in Chapter 7. 
9

Acronyms and Abbreviations

ALARA as low as reasonably achievable

BAAQMD Bay Area Air Quality Management District

CCR California Code of Regulations

CARB California Air Resources Board

CEARP Comprehensive Environmental Assessment and Response Program

CERCLA Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act

CFR Code of Federal Regulations

DHS Department of Homeland Security

DOE Department of Energy

DTSC Department of Toxic Substances Control (California)

EMS environmental management system

EO executive order

EPA Environmental Protection Agency

EPCRA Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act

ES&H environment, safety, and health

FIFRA Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act

FONSI Finding of No Significant Impact

General 

Permit

State of California, NPDES General Permit for Storm Water Discharge 

Associated with Industrial Activities

ISO International Organization for Standardization

kg kilogram

kg/yr kilogram per year

LECS liquid effluent control system

LLNL Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

MCLs maximum contaminant levels

mg/L milligrams per liter

mrem millirem

MS4 California Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System

MSDS material safety data sheet

mSv milliSeivert

ND non-detectable

NEPA National Environmental Policy Act

NESHAPs National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants

NFPA National Fire Protection Association
10

NNSA National Nuclear Security Administration

NNSA/SSO National Nuclear Security Administration, Sandia Site Office

NOV Notice of violation

NPDES national pollutant discharge elimination system

O&G oil and grease

ODS ozone depleting substance

PCB polychlorinated biphenyl

pCi/L picocuries per liter

POTW publicly owned treatment works

PP/WM Pollution Prevention and Waste Minimization

QAPP quality assurance program plan

RCRA Resource Conservation and Recovery Act

RWQCB Regional Water Quality Control Board (California)

SARA 

Title III

Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986, Title III

SHPO State Historic Preservation Officer

SNL Sandia National Laboratories

SNL/CA Sandia National Laboratories, California

SNL/NM Sandia National Laboratories, New Mexico

STA Spare-the-Air

SWEA site-wide environmental assessment

TPHD total petroleum hydrocarbons diesel

TSCA Toxic Substances Control Act

TSS total suspended solids

μg/L micrograms per liter

μmhos/cm micromhos per centimeter

U.S. United States

USC United States Code

USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service

UST underground storage tank
11

1 Executive Summary

1.1 Overview 

Sandia National Laboratories is one of three national laboratories supporting the United 

States Department of Energy (DOE) statutory responsibilities for nuclear weapon research 

and design, development of energy technologies, and basic scientific research. Sandia has 

facilities in New Mexico, California, Nevada, and Hawaii. Sandia National Laboratories, 

California (SNL/CA) is a multi-program engineering and science laboratory supporting the 

nuclear weapons stockpile program, energy and environment research, homeland security, 

micro- and nano-technologies, and basic science and engineering research. 

The Site Environmental Report provides a summary of environmental management 

performance and compliance efforts at SNL/CA for calendar year 2010. The document also 

satisfies the DOE requirement for preparation of an annual environmental report, one of the 

required reports listed in DOE Order 231.1A, Environment, Safety, and Health Reporting

(DOE 2004a). 

The Site Environmental Report is divided into ten chapters. Chapter 1, the Executive 

Summary, highlights compliance and monitoring results obtained in 2010. Chapter 2 

provides a brief introduction to SNL/CA and the existing environment found on site. Chapter 

3 summarizes SNL/CA’s compliance activities with the major environmental requirements 

applicable to site operations. Chapter 4 presents information on environmental management, 

performance measures, and environmental programs. Chapter 5 presents the results of 

monitoring and surveillance activities in 2010. Chapter 6 discusses quality assurance. 

Chapters 7 through 9 provide supporting information for the report and Chapter 10 is the 

report distribution list. 

1.2 Environmental Management 

Sandia maintains a comprehensive environmental management system (EMS) that 

incorporates environmental stewardship, compliance, and a process of continual 

improvement. SNL/CA’s program conforms to the international standard for EMS, ISO 

14001 (ISO 2004), obtaining re-registration on July 5, 2009. SNL/CA is also a Waste Wise 

Partner (April 2008), a program sponsored by the Environmental Protection Agency. 

Additional information on environmental management is presented in Chapter 4. 

1.3 Performance Measures 

SNL/CA measures environmental performance as progress towards achieving EMS 

objectives and contract performance measures established jointly between Sandia and the 

DOE National Nuclear Security Administration, Sandia Site Office (NNSA/SSO). During 

2010, SNL/CA measured performance in achieving fourteen EMS objectives and one 

NNSA/SSO performance measure. SNL/CA received three notices of violation (NOV) and 
12

five minor violations in 2010. Of the three NOVs, two were for exceedances of the 

wastewater discharge limit and one was for hazardous waste treatment/permitting 

requirements. The five minor violations relate to underground storage tank requirements. 

Section 3.9.3 provides details about the minor violations and Section 3.15 presents the details 

of the NOVs. Additional information about SNL/CA’s environmental performance in 2010 is 

presented in Section 4.2. 

1.4 Environmental Monitoring 

SNL/CA monitors storm water, wastewater, groundwater, and direct (ambient) radiation. The 

results of monitoring during the 2009/2010 wet season show that no pollutants were detected 

in storm water runoff at levels that are a cause for concern. SNL/CA experienced two 

exceedances of the wastewater discharge limit at the sewer outfall during 2010 for copper. 

SNL/CA continued to see carbon tetrachloride in groundwater at the Navy Landfill in 2010 

with a concentration similar to that detected in past years. Wells at the Fuel Oil Spill site had 

insufficient water to sample during 2010; consequently, no samples were collected. 

Monitoring data indicate that SNL/CA is not contributing significantly to the external 

radiation dose in the area. The average annual gamma radiation dose from all sources 

including background radiation at the site perimeter was 58.8 mrem (0.588 mSv), which is 

within the dose range measured over the last fifteen years. The measured background for this 

area is approximately 54.8 mrem (0.548 mSv). The difference between the two values is not 

statistically significant. Additional information about environmental monitoring at SNL/CA 

is provided in Chapter 5. 
13

2 Introduction

2.1 History and Mission 

Sandia National Laboratories, California (SNL/CA) was established in 1956 by Sandia 

Corporation to provide a closer relationship with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory 

(LLNL) and their nuclear weapons design work. The SNL/CA facility evolved into an 

engineering research and development laboratory by the early 1960s, and into a multiprogram engineering and science laboratory during the 1970s. As international arms control 

efforts increased in the late 1970s and throughout the 1980s, the United States emphasized 

treaty monitoring, safety, security, and control of the national nuclear weapons stockpile. 

With the end of the Cold War in the late 1980s, the role of SNL/CA to support stockpile 

stewardship ensuring nonproliferation and continued safety, security, and reliability, took on 

greater importance. 

SNL/CA has provided distinguished service to 

the nation for over 50 years through engineering 

support and systems integration for nuclear 

weapons and related national security research 

and development efforts. Our programs support 

four key areas – the national nuclear deterrence 

policy and stockpile security, nonproliferation 

and materials control, energy and critical 

infrastructure, and emerging threats. SNL/CA is 

committed to collaborative research and 

development with industry and universities, 

resulting in new and enhanced technologies that 

have both commercial and national security 

benefits. 

SNL/CA is a government owned/contractor 

operated laboratory. The site, the buildings, and 

the equipment are owned by the government; while Sandia Corporation, a Lockheed Martin 

Company, operates the laboratory for the Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security 

Administration (NNSA). The NNSA/Sandia Site Office (NNSA/SSO) oversees the 

operations at the site, using Sandia Corporation as a management and operating contractor. 

2.2 Location 

SNL/CA is located approximately 40 miles east of San Francisco, near the City of Livermore 

in eastern Alameda County. The site lies at the western base of the Altamont Hills on 

relatively flat terrain with low relief sloping gently northwest and north. Figure 2-1 shows the 

regional location of the site. 

Research Activities at SNL/CA

 Science-based performance and 

reliability testing and computer-based 

modeling of nuclear weapon 

components 

 Development, design, and testing of 

nonnuclear components for nuclear 

weapon systems 

 Development and testing of materials 

and diagnostic equipment in support of 

defense programs, homeland security, 

and basic science and engineering 

 Energy and environmental research 

 Research and development of 

microelectronics, microsystems, and 

nanotechonolgies
14

SNL/CA occupies 410 acres. The main campus (134 acres) is surrounded by the remaining 

undeveloped SNL/CA land (276 acres) on the east, south, and west (Figure 2-2, Site Map). 

To the north of SNL/CA are East Avenue and LLNL. Land use to the east and south of the 

site is agricultural and low-density residential. A residential development is located along the 

western boundary of the site. 

Figure 2-1 Regional Location Map 
15

Figure 2-2 SNL/CA Site Map 

2.3 Site Population 

The SNL/CA workforce is comprised of Sandia employees (full and part-time staff, student 

interns, and post-doctoral appointees) and contracted staff. As of November 2010, there were 

1076 Sandia employees working at SNL/CA, an increase of 88 from 2009. Eighty-two 

percent of Sandia employees live in Alameda, Contra Costa, and San Joaquin counties. 

Thirty-four percent live in Livermore. The contracted workforce fluctuates throughout the 

year depending on program staffing needs. An estimate of contracted staff is not available. 

2.4 Environmental Setting 

The following summarizes the environmental setting at SNL/CA. Additional information can 

be found in the Final Site-wide Environmental Assessment of the Sandia National 

Laboratories/California (DOE 2003a). 
16

2.4.1 Geology and Soils 

SNL/CA is located in the California Coast Ranges geologic province in the southeastern 

portion of the Livermore Valley. The valley forms an irregularly shaped lowland area about 

16 miles long, east to west, and 7 to 10 miles wide, north to south. The land at SNL/CA 

slopes gently to the northwest and north, with steep terrain in the southern portion of the site 

and along the banks of Arroyo Seco. The site ranges in elevation from 615 feet above mean 

sea level at the northwest corner of the property to 849 feet at the southern end. Site 

topography is depicted on Figure 2-3. 

Figure 2-3 SNL/CA Topography 

SNL/CA is located in a seismically active region. The major fault systems in the area are the 

San Andreas Fault system and the much older Coast Range thrust fault system. The upper 

plate of the Coast Range thrust formed the northwest trending Coast Range, including the 

Altamont Hills. Any seismic activity in the Livermore Valley would probably result from 

movement on the San Andreas Fault, a right-lateral strike-slip fault system trending 

northwest-southeast, extending from Point Arena to the Gulf of California. The regional 

faults closest to SNL/CA, the Hayward, Calaveras, Greenville, and Tesla faults follow this 

trend, and have been seismically active in the historic past. A magnitude 5.8 earthquake on 
17

the Greenville fault in 1980 caused minor damage at SNL/CA and in the Livermore Valley. 

The Las Positas fault crossing SNL/CA is a transverse fault, at right angles to the Greenville 

fault, and was active during this earthquake. The Verona fault is a low angle thrust fault, 

dissimilar to the regional faulting, and probably not connecting with either the Calaveras or 

Las Positas faults. Only microseismicity was recorded on the Verona fault in 1980. These 

faults are shown on Figure 2-4. 

Figure 2-4 Regional Earthquake Faults 

Surface soils and arroyo sediments cover the SNL/CA site. Underlying soils at the site are 

formed primarily upon sediments deposited by local streams. Three soils cover most of 

SNL/CA: Rincon clay loam, Positas gravelly loam, and Livermore gravelly loam. There are 

no known mineral resources or fossil occurrences at the site. 

2.4.2 Hydrology and Water Resources 

Groundwater in the SNL/CA area occurs within saturated unconsolidated geologic material. 

Depth to groundwater varies from less than 20 feet on the eastern portion of the site to 126 

feet on the west side of the site. Water bearing-units beneath the site are composed of 

shallow heterogeneous, unconsolidated alluvium and deep fluvial and lacustrine sediments. 
18

Groundwater near SNL/CA is generally suitable for use as domestic, municipal, agricultural, 

and industrial supply. However, some shallower groundwater may be of marginal quality and 

not suitable for industrial or agricultural purposes. Groundwater less than 300 feet deep is 

usually unsuitable for domestic use without treatment. 

SNL/CA purchases potable water from LLNL, which is supplied by the San Francisco Water 

District through the Hetch Hetchy Aqueduct. Additionally, the Alameda County Flood 

Control and Water Conservation District, Zone 7, supplements this primary water source as 

needed. SNL/CA’s water use is metered by LLNL as it enters the site. In calendar year 2010, 

SNL/CA used 60.04 million gallons of water, an increase of less than one percent (480,000 

gallons) from water used in 2009. (See discussion in Section 4.2). The site discharged 

approximately 25.4 million gallons of wastewater during the year. Water loss, or the 

difference between water use and wastewater discharge, is attributed to irrigation, cooling 

towers, water tank releases, evaporative losses, eyewash and safety shower testing, and fire 

system testing. 

There are no perennial streams or natural surface water bodies at SNL/CA. The Arroyo Seco, 

an ephemeral and intermittent stream, diagonally traverses the site from southeast to 

northwest. The arroyo typically flows only in very wet years, and for short periods of time 

during heavy storms. A seasonal wetland that is wet well into June, and sometimes July, is 

located in the streambed along the eastern part of the arroyo. Storm water runoff at SNL/CA 

is conveyed to Arroyo Seco through a system of storm drains and channels. The Arroyo Seco 

and seasonal wetland are shown on Figure 2-5. 

2.4.3 Climate and Meteorology 

The climate at SNL/CA is typical of the Mediterranean conditions in the San Francisco Bay 

region where cool, wet winters and hot, dry summers are normal. In the summer, inland 

valleys, such as the Livermore Valley, generally experience more sunshine and higher 

temperatures than the coastal areas. In the winter, temperatures in the valley are usually 

cooler than at the coast. 

Annual meteorological data for 2010 was obtained from a nearby meteorological tower 

located at LLNL (LLNL 2011). The annual rainfall for 2010 was 15.82 inches. Temperatures 

in 2010 ranged from 28.8 to 103.6o Fahrenheit. Average annual rainfall in the Livermore area 

over the last five years was 12.24 inches. The windiest months in the area occur in the spring 

and summer, and are dominated by westerly sea breezes. The winds during the fall and 

winter are typically lighter and more varied in direction. 

2.4.4 Ecology 

Plant Species 

The plant community at SNL/CA is typical of the surrounding region, consisting primarily of 

grassland. Localized areas of coyote brush scrub, willow riparian woodland, and wetland 

habitat are also present. Areas developed and disturbed by Sandia operations constitute an 
19

additional habitat type, designated altered habitat. Habitat types are depicted on Figure 2-5. 

No threatened, endangered, proposed, or candidate plant species are present onsite. 

Figure 2-5 Habitat at SNL/CA 

Wildlife Species 

A variety of wildlife species live and forage at SNL/CA. During 2010, SNL/CA identified 63 

bird species, 3 amphibians, 5 reptiles, and 18 mammal species on site. SNL/CA is located 

within the range of the mountain lion (Puma concolor), a “specially protected mammal” 

under California law. The most recent sighting of a mountain lion was reported at SNL/CA in 

2008. Passive monitoring at the site for visiting mountain lions is ongoing. 

SNL/CA provides habitat (or potential habitat) for two threatened wildlife species, the 

California red-legged frog (Rana aurora draytonii) and the California tiger salamander 

(Ambystoma californiense). The most recent confirmed observation of a tiger salamander at 

SNL/CA was on December 13, 2007, when an adult salamander was found within the 

developed area of the site. The first confirmed observation of California red-legged frogs at 

SNL/CA occurred in April 2004 when several individuals were found on the eastern portion 

Wetland and Willow riparian woodland
20

of the site in shallow water contained within Arroyo Seco. From 2007 to 2009, California 

experienced drought conditions resulting in less runoff to Arroyo Seco and shorter periods of 

ponded water. During this time, red-legged frogs were not observed at SNL/CA. In 2010, 

conditions that support amphibians in and along Arroyo Seco improved as rainfall returned to 

normal during the 2009/2010 wet season. California red-legged frogs were again observed in 

2010 along the eastern stretch of the arroyo. 

Numerous bird species nest or 

forage on site, most of which are 

protected under the Migratory 

Bird Treaty Act. Several birds are 

also Federal and/or state special 

concern species or fully protected 

in California. These include the 

Bank swallow (Riparia riparia), 

Northern harrier (Circus cyaneus), 

Nuttall’s woodpecker (Picoides 

nuttallii), Song sparrow 

(Melospiza melodia), Western 

burrowing owl (Athene 

cunicularia hypugaea), Yellow 

warbler (Dendroica petechia),

White-tailed kite (Elanus 

leucurus), Golden eagle (Aquila 

chrysaetos), and Loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovicianus). Of these special concern species, 

the Loggerhead shrike and the Nuttall’s woodpecker were the only ones nesting at SNL/CA 

in 2010. 

Nuttall’s woodpecker
21

3 Compliance Summary

Sandia National Laboratories, California (SNL/CA) operates in compliance with the letter 

and spirit of applicable federal, state, and local environmental laws and regulations. 

Additionally, as a Department of Energy (DOE) facility, the site is subject to DOE directives 

(DOE orders), and to presidential executive orders. This chapter provides a summary of 

SNL/CA compliance with major environmental requirements for calendar year 2010. 

3.1 DOE Order 450.1A 

DOE Order 450.1A, Environmental Protection Program (DOE 2008b) outlines the basic 

strategy for environmental compliance at DOE facilities, including SNL/CA. The objectives 

of Order 450.1A are to implement sound environmental stewardship practices, and to meet or 

exceed compliance with environmental, public health, and resource protection laws, 

regulations, and DOE requirements (DOE 2008b). The order requires DOE sites to meet 

these objectives through an environmental management system (EMS) that integrates 

environment, safety, and health into work planning and execution. 

Sandia implemented its EMS in December 2005, the DOE established deadline. In 2006,

SNL/CA upgraded the EMS Program to conform to the international standard for EMS, ISO 

14001:2004, and received third-party registration to the standard. In 2009, SNL/CA received 

re-registration to the ISO 14001:2004 standard for an additional three-year period. Chapter 4 

provides additional information on SNL/CA’s EMS program. 

DOE Order 450.1A also establishes five 

sustainable environmental stewardship goals. 

Sandia incorporates these goals into ongoing 

operations through six functional

environmental programs (See Chapter 4) and 

implements specific activities in support of 

DOE’s goals through the EMS. SNL/CA’s 

progress in meeting sustainable 

environmental stewardship goals is presented 

in Section 4.2 Environmental Performance. 

DOE’s goals include reductions in use and 

release of ozone depleting substances (ODS). 

SNL/CA does not keep data on reductions in 

ODS in use at the site. However, SNL/CA 

complies with the DOE’s goals and the 

regulations contained in 40 CFR 82 that are designed to end production of ODS. SNL/CA 

supports recycling of ODS during servicing and disposal of equipment and identifies 

alternatives for ODS. These compliance activities are coordinated through the Air Quality 

Program. 

DOE Order 450.1A 

Sustainable Environmental Stewardship 

Goals 

 Reduce generation /toxicity of 

hazardous waste at the source through 

pollution prevention

 Reduce/eliminate acquisition, use, and 

release of toxic and hazardous 

chemicals/materials including ODS

 Purchase environmentally preferable 

products

 Practice electronic stewardship

 Recycle
22

3.2 DOE Order 430.2B 

DOE Order 430.2B, Departmental Energy, Renewable Energy and Transportation 

Management (DOE 2008a) identifies requirements and responsibilities for efficient and 

effective management of energy, water, and vehicle fleets at DOE facilities. Order 430.2B 

requires DOE sites to incorporate objectives and targets into their EMS programs that 

contribute to achieving sustainable goals for energy, water, and fleet management. 

SNL/CA’s EMS Program includes objectives for energy use, water use, and general 

transportation. Site-specific, long-term targets have been established for the water use and 

general transportation objectives. Energy targets are identified in the corporate EMS Program 

for implementation across all Sandia sites. Chapter 4 provides additional information on 

EMS metrics related to energy, water, and transportation. 

3.3 Executive Order 13423 

Issued in January 2007, Executive Order 13423, Strengthening Federal Environmental, 

Energy, and Transportation Management (EO 13423) sets goals in the areas of energy 

efficiency, acquisition, renewable energy, toxics reductions, recycling, sustainable buildings, 

electronics stewardship, fleets, and water conservation. EO 13423 also requires more 

widespread use of environmental management systems as the framework in which to manage 

and continually improve these sustainable practices. The requirements of EO 13423 are 

implemented through DOE Order 450.1A and DOE Order 430.2B. 

3.4 Executive Order 13514 

Executive Order 13514, Federal Leadership in Environmental, Energy, and Economic 

Performance was issued on October 5, 2009. EO 13514 establishes an integrated strategy 

towards sustainability in the Federal government and makes reduction of greenhouse gas 

emissions a priority for Federal agencies. The order identifies specific requirements for 

reducing consumption of petroleum fuel, water resources, and paper; recycling of solid waste 

(including construction debris); and procurement of postconsumer, low-toxicity, and 

sustainable products. To address the requirements of EO 13514, DOE developed a Strategic 

Sustainability Performance Plan. In 2010, each DOE site was directed to update the Energy 

Management Executable Plan (renamed Site Sustainability Plan) required by DOE Order 

430.2b to support DOE’s goals. During the year, SNL/CA participated in the corporate effort 

to prepare a Sandia-wide Site Sustainability Plan. EO 13514 requirements are incorporated 

into the Sandia Site Sustainability Plan and SNL/CA’S EMS. Chapter 4 presents additional 

information about the specific objectives and targets that support these requirements. 

Reporting on greenhouse gas emissions is a component of DOE’s overall sustainability 

strategy. As such, SNL/CA prepared a baseline greenhouse gas emissions inventory based on 

2008/2009 data that will be used to track progress in reducing emissions generated directly 

and indirectly from site operations. A 2010 greenhouse gas emissions inventory was also 

prepared and reported to DOE this year. Figure 3-1 shows the percentage of greenhouse gas 
23

emissions by category for SNL/CA in 2010. Metrics that track our progress towards meeting 

greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals will be reported in future site environmental 

reports. 

Figure 3-1 SNL/CA Carbon Footprint – 2010 

3.5 National Environmental Policy Act 

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) (42 USC § 4321) is the basic national 

charter for protection of the environment. It requires all federal agencies to evaluate the 

affects of major federal actions on the human environment, including the physical, 

socioeconomic, and cultural environments. NEPA review of DOE actions is conducted in 

accordance with DOE NEPA Implementing Procedures (10 CFR 1021). Under these 

procedures, DOE may prepare a programmatic (including site-wide) document at any time to 

further the purposes of NEPA. In 2003, DOE’s National Nuclear Security 

Administration/Sandia Site Office (NNSA/SSO) issued a site-wide environmental assessment 

(SWEA) for continued operations at SNL/CA (DOE 2003a) and a Finding of No Significant 

Impact (FONSI) on March 20, 2003 (DOE 2003b). The SWEA evaluates the impacts of site 

operations over the next ten years, and the FONSI concludes that continuation of site 

operations is not a major federal action significantly affecting the quality of the human 

environment. 

SNL/CA supports compliance with NEPA and DOE’s NEPA Implementing Procedures by 

reviewing all new projects and programs or changes to existing projects and programs to 

ensure that they fit within the bounds of existing NEPA documents and impact analyses for 

the site. The SNL/CA NEPA review process is documented in an administrative procedure 

(SNL/CA 2009b) that is reviewed and updated every three years, or as needed. During fiscal 

year 2010, 158 projects underwent NEPA review. Only one project was found to require 

50.9%

19.4%

0.0%

14.2%

1.1%

0.4%

11.3%

1.9%

0.1%

0.7%

SNL/CA Carbon Footprint

(% of Total) Electricity

Natural gas

Stationary

Combustion

Commuting

Rental Cars

Fleet

Airline Travel

Waste
24

additional NEPA review and will be evaluated under a routine Supplement Analysis to the 

SWEA that is currently underway. 

3.6 Air Quality 

3.6.1 Clean Air Act 

The Clean Air Act (42 USC § 7401) is the federal statute that forms the basis for the national 

air pollution control effort. It authorizes the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to 

promulgate air quality regulations and establishes national ambient air quality standards for 

criteria pollutants. Authority to implement the requirements of the Clean Air Act is provided 

to each state that has an EPA approved State Implementation Plan. The State Implementation 

Plan for California describes how National Ambient Air Quality Standards will be obtained 

in each air district. Each district establishes and enforces air pollution regulations to attain 

and maintain state and federal ambient air quality standards. The Bay Area Air Quality 

Management District (BAAQMD) is the regulating authority for controlling air pollution 

from stationary sources at SNL/CA. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is 

responsible for ensuring that federal and state standards are met for mobile and small “area” 

sources of air pollution. 

SNL/CA does not have any major sources of air pollutants (as defined in 40 CFR Part 70.2) 

present on site. SNL/CA works with the BAAQMD and CARB to permit or register all 

regulated emission sources. There were 13 permitted sources for the 2009/2010 and 

2010/2011 permitting periods1

. Table 3-5 (Section 3.16) provides a list of the permitted 

sources. 

3.6.2 Radionuclide Emissions 

The National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants, Subpart H – National 

Emission Standards for Emissions of Radionuclides Other Than Radon From Department of 

Energy Facilities (NESHAPs) (40 CFR Part 61) establishes radiation protection standards, 

monitoring requirements, and annual reporting of radionuclide air emissions. Additional 

requirements pertaining to radionuclide emissions are contained in DOE Order 450.1A, 

Environmental Protection Program (DOE 2008b), and DOE Order 5400.5, Radiation 

Protection of the Public and the Environment (DOE 1993). 

SNL/CA does not currently have any radionuclide emission sources that are subject to the 

monitoring requirements of 40 CFR Part 61. To comply with national emission standards, 

SNL/CA evaluates individual projects with the potential to release radionuclide emissions to 

determine the worst-case dose to the public. Additionally, dose calculations are compared to 

the requirements to determine the need for annual monitoring. During 2010, there were no 

projects using radionuclides above the Annual Possession Quantity; consequently, SNL/CA 

did not complete any NESHAPs evaluations. 

 

1

 The BAAQMD permit period is July 1 through June 30 each year. Permit data is presented for the two periods 

applicable to 2010. 
25

3.7 Natural and Cultural Resources 

3.7.1 Endangered Species Act 

The Endangered Species Act (16 USC § 1531 et. seq.) provides for protection of plant and 

wildlife species in danger of becoming extinct. In 2002, NNSA/SSO and SNL/CA initiated 

consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) under Section 7 of the 

Endangered Species Act for maximum operations of the SNL/CA site. On December 8, 2004, 

the USFWS issued a biological and conference opinion for continued operations at SNL/CA. 

The biological opinion concludes that proposed site operations are not likely to jeopardize 

the continued existence of the California red-legged frog (Rana aurora draytonii) and the 

California tiger salamander (Ambystoma californiense), the two threatened species present on 

site. The conference opinion concludes that site operations are not likely to destroy or 

adversely modify proposed critical habitat for the red-legged frog2.

3.7.2 Interim Protections for California Red-legged Frogs 

In October 2006, interim restrictions on pesticide use went into effect to protect the 

California red-legged frog. The restrictions are the result of a settlement agreement between 

the EPA and the Center for Biological Diversity that requires the EPA to consult with the 

USFWS under the Endangered Species Act on the impacts of 66 pesticide ingredients to the 

red-legged frog. The agreement, outlined in a Stipulated Injunction and Order (US District 

Court 2006), places restrictions on the use of these pesticides in red-legged frog aquatic and 

upland habitat until consultations are complete and biological opinions are issued by the 

USFWS. In response to these interim protections, SNL/CA has restricted the use of products 

containing the named pesticide ingredients in and along Arroyo Seco. By December 31, 

2009, the EPA had completed effects determinations (or canceled the registration) for all 66 

pesticide ingredients but no opinions have yet been issued. 

3.7.3 Migratory Bird Treaty Act 

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 USC §703 et. seq.) provides for protection of migratory 

birds, their nests, and eggs. Fifty-nine of the 63 bird species observed at SNL/CA in 2010 are 

protected under this act. In 2010, there was no intentional take of migratory birds or 

disturbance to nests or eggs at the site. Migratory birds often build nests within the developed 

campus in locations where they will be disturbed by maintenance activities. To avoid 

harming birds, nests, or eggs, SNL/CA delays activities until the young have fledged, or 

surveys determine that the nest is abandoned. In 2010, two activities were delayed to protect 

nesting birds. 

 

2

 In 2002, when the consultation process began, the Sandia site was within designated critical habitat for the 

California red-legged frog. In November 2002, the designation was overturned (U.S. District Court 2002), and 

in April 2004, the USFWS re-issued proposed critical habitat that included the Sandia site (USFWS 2004). 

However, in November 2005, the USFWS issued a revised designation (USFWS 2005), and a final rule in April 

2006 (USFWS 2006). The scientific integrity of the 2006 rule was questioned resulting in another revision to 

critical habitat. The USFWS issued a new designation in March 2010. The Sandia site is not included in the 

final determination of critical habitat for the California red-legged frog. 
26

3.7.4 Floodplain Management 

Executive Order 11988, Floodplain 

Management (EO 11988), requires federal 

agencies to consider impacts associated with the 

occupancy and modification of floodplains, to 

reduce the risk of flood loss, to minimize the 

impact of floods on human safety, health, and 

welfare, and to restore and preserve the natural 

and beneficial values served by floodplains. In 

2002, SNL/CA completed a management 

plan for the Arroyo Seco to identify channel 

improvements and stream zone management 

activities that will reduce flood and erosion 

risk and provide improved habitat for wildlife 

species that may use the arroyo (Matthews 

2002). The plan identifies areas for 

constructing functional floodplains and for 

planting of native riparian vegetation. During 2006 and 2007, SNL/CA completed five 

improvement tasks under a two-year permit issued by the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers. 

SNL/CA submitted a new permit request in 2006 for the remaining improvement actions. In 

September 2008, SNL/CA received a new ten-year permit from the U.S. Army Corp of 

Engineers to continue the Arroyo Seco Improvement Program. Nine improvement projects 

were completed in 2009 but none were completed in 2010. 

3.7.5 Protection of Wetlands 

Executive Order 11990, Protection of Wetlands (EO 11990), requires federal agencies to 

minimize the destruction, loss, or degradation of wetlands and preserve and enhance the 

natural and beneficial values of wetlands. A small wetland area of 0.44 acres is present at 

SNL/CA. During 2010, SNL/CA did not conduct any activities in the wetland area, or 

affecting wetlands. 

3.7.6 National Historic Preservation Act 

The National Historic Preservation Act (16 USC § 470) requires federal agencies to identify, 

record, and protect cultural resources. In 1990, an assessment of cultural resources at the 

SNL/CA site was completed. Although no prehistoric resources, Native American resources, 

or historic archaeological sites were identified during this assessment, there is a possibility 

that buried resources could be present on site (DOE 2003a). SNL/CA includes provisions for 

cultural resources in all construction-related contracts where the potential for buried 

resources may be unearthed. In 2010, there were no buried archaeological resources 

unearthed at SNL/CA. 

Arroyo Seco Improvement Project 

Sites 14B and 15 – 2009 Restoration

Arroyo Seco Improvement Project 

Sites 14B and 15 – 2010 Growth
27

In 2001, SNL/CA completed an historic building survey. None of the buildings onsite are 

identified as historically significant or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places 

(SNL 2002). The results of the historic building survey were submitted to NNSA/SSO. In 

December 2004, NNSA transmitted the survey results to the California State Historic 

Preservation Officer (SHPO). In April 2005, NNSA/SSO received concurrence from the 

California SHPO that none of the properties located at SNL/CA are eligible for inclusion in 

the National Register of Historic Places. 

3.8 Environmental Restoration 

3.8.1 Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, 

and Liability Act 

Between 1984 and 1986, DOE investigated the SNL/CA site under their Comprehensive 

Environmental Assessment and Response Program (CEARP) to identify and assess potential 

environmental problems (DOE 1986). The CEARP investigation evaluated compliance with 

major federal environmental laws, including the Comprehensive Environmental Response, 

Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) (42 USC § 9601). CERCLA established 

liability compensation, cleanup, and emergency response for hazardous substances released 

to the environment. During the CEARP investigation, two potential CERCLA sites were 

identified at SNL/CA, the Fuel Oil Spill Site and the Navy Landfill. A Hazard Ranking 

System study was performed for each site to determine if either qualified for listing on the 

National Priorities List. Hazard Ranking System scores for both sites fell below 28.5, the 

qualifying score for listing. Since completion of the CEARP investigation, there have been 

no hazardous substance releases or contaminated sites found at SNL/CA that warranted 

CERCLA investigation or a Hazard Ranking System study. 

In addition to cleanup and emergency response requirements, CERCLA also established a 

program to report spills of hazardous substances to the National Response Center. SNL/CA 

incorporates CERCLA reporting requirements into an operating procedure for spill 

prevention and control (SNL/CA 2010b). In 2010, there were no releases of hazardous 

substances that required notification under CERCLA. 

3.8.2 Site Clean-up Orders 

Since 1985, environmental restoration and monitoring activities at SNL/CA have been 

conducted in compliance with site clean-up orders issued by the California Regional Water 

Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region under provisions established in the 

California Water Code (California RWQCB 1989). Although there are no active remediation 

sites at SNL/CA, groundwater monitoring is ongoing at two locations, the Fuel Oil Spill site 

and the Navy Landfill. SNL/CA currently samples three groundwater monitoring wells for 

residual contamination, two at the Fuel Oil Spill site (when there is sufficient water to collect 

a sample), and one at the Navy Landfill. Sampling results are presented in Chapter 5, 

Environmental Monitoring. 
28

3.9 Hazardous Materials 

3.9.1 Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act 

The Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) -- also known as the 

Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986, Title III (SARA Title III) (42 USC 

§11001, et. seq.) -- requires reporting of toxic chemical usage and releases. To meet EPCRA 

requirements, SNL/CA submits annual reports to the EPA, the State of California Office of 

Emergency Services, Alameda County Department of Environmental Health, and the 

Alameda County Fire Department. EPCRA reporting requirements applicable to SNL/CA for 

2010 are presented in Table 3-1. 

Table 3-1 Status of EPCRA Reporting at SNL/CA, 2010

EPCRA Section Description of Reporting Required in 2010

Sec. 302-303 Planning Notification

Yes 

(sulfuric acid only)

Sec. 304 Extremely Hazardous Substances Release Notification No

Sec. 311-312 Material Safety Data Sheet/ Chemical Inventory Yes

Sec. 313 Toxic Release Inventory Reporting Yes (lead only)

3.9.2 California Hazardous Materials Release Response Plans 

and Inventory Law 

The California Hazardous Materials Release Response Plans and Inventory Law (Assembly 

Bill 2185) addresses the management of hazardous and acutely hazardous materials in the 

state. Additional requirements pertaining to hazardous materials are codified in the California 

Health and Safety Code, Division 20, Chapter 6.95 §25500, et seq. In compliance with 

California requirements, SNL/CA annually submits a Hazardous Material Business Plan to 

the Alameda County Department of Environmental Health. 

3.9.3 Underground Storage Tanks 

Hazardous or petroleum products stored in underground storage tanks (UST) are regulated 

under California Health and Safety Code Division 20, Chapter 6.7, §§ 25280-25299.8. 

California code incorporates the UST provisions of the Resource Conservation and Recovery 

Act (RCRA) and establishes standards for construction, operation, maintenance, inspection, 

and testing of USTs. The Alameda County Department of Environmental Health is the 

regulating authority for USTs at SNL/CA. SNL/CA operates one UST in accordance with 

California requirements. Each year, SNL/CA declares the tank through the Hazardous 

Material Business Plan described in Section 3.9.2, and receives a permit to operate from 

Alameda County. 

During 2010, SNL/CA received five minor violations from the Alameda County Department 

of Environmental Health for use of outdated forms and failure of ancillary equipment 

associated with the UST. All five minor violations were corrected immediately. 
29

3.9.4 Toxic Substances Control Act 

The Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) is the primary Federal statute regulating the 

manufacture, use, distribution, disposal, import, or export of certain chemicals and 

substances (15 USC § 2601 et. seq.). TSCA requirements that are applicable to Sandia 

operations are incorporated into Corporate Process ESH100.2 Analyze and Control Hazards 

(SNL 2011). For SNL/CA operations, the only TSCA regulated chemicals imported or 

exported are for research and development purposes thus exempt from general reporting 

requirements. However, SNL/CA notifies EPA of exempt imports and exports when 

appropriate. In 2010, SNL/CA did not prepare any TSCA Notification of Export declarations. 

SNL/CA tracks disposal of TSCA materials that are not otherwise captured as RCRA or 

California toxic hazardous waste. These materials include asbestos and polychlorinated 

biphenyls (PCBs). The majority of TSCA waste generated onsite is asbestos from abatement 

activities. Only small quantities of PCB wastes are generated at SNL/CA, consisting of light 

ballasts that are not specifically marked as PCB-free. 

3.9.5 Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act 

The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) restricts the registration, 

sale, use, and disposal of pesticides (includes herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, and 

rodenticides) (7 USC § 136). Activities at SNL/CA that fall under the provisions of FIFRA 

include the storage and use of pesticides, and disposal of pesticide containers. Pesticide 

handling and storage follows a site-specific standard operating procedure that includes 

provisions for training, use of personal protective equipment, proper handling following 

manufacturers guidelines, secondary containment during storage, and disposal of product and 

containers (SNL/CA 2009a). Pesticide use at SNL/CA is overseen by a certified pesticide 

applicator. 

3.10 Pollution Prevention and Waste Minimization 

Pollution prevention concepts first appeared in RCRA. An expressed concern was to 

minimize the generation of hazardous waste through process substitution, materials recovery, 

recycling, reuse, and treatment. RCRA established the reduction or elimination of hazardous 

waste as national policy, and required that hazardous waste generators and RCRA permit 

holders have a program in place to minimize waste. SNL/CA is required to report waste 

generation and recycling information yearly to DOE. To meet this requirement, the Annual 

Waste Generation and Pollution Prevention Progress Report was submitted to DOE on 

December 1, 2010 (SNL/CA 2010d). Additionally, SNL/CA’s Waste Minimization 

Certificate required by the Hazardous Waste Storage Facility Part B Permit was submitted to 

the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) prior to the March deadline. 

3.10.1 Pollution Prevention Requirements of DOE Order 450.1A 

DOE Order 450.1A establishes five performance-based sustainable environmental 

stewardship goals (see Section 3.1 for a list). During 2010, SNL/CA continued 

implementation of site-specific activities to support these goals including: 
30

 increasing the use of bio-based products; 

 increasing the percentage of computer desktops, monitors, and laptops purchased that 

meet EPEAT-registered silver and above; 

 continuing management of batteries as universal waste. 

As required by Order 450.1A, SNL/CA implements affirmative procurement programs that 

favor acquisition and use of environmentally preferable products and services. At SNL/CA, 

affirmative procurement is a coordinated effort between the Pollution Prevention and Waste 

Minimization (PP/WM) Program and the Procurement Department. The PP/WM staff 

communicates environmentally preferable purchasing requirements through presentations 

and training targeting individuals involved in purchasing products and services. Both groups 

work closely with suppliers to ensure that environmentally preferable products are available 

for purchase. 

In 2010, DOE changed the reporting requirements for affirmative procurement focusing only 

on a subset of affirmative procurement products (16 of 66 categories). As required, SNL/CA 

compiled purchasing data for the 16 focus categories and submitted the Annual 

Environmental Preferable Purchasing Progress Report on December 1, 2010. Additional 

information about pollution prevention activities is provided in Chapter 4. 

3.10.2 Hazardous Waste Source Reduction and Management 

Review Act 

The California Hazardous Waste Source Reduction and Management Review Act of 1989,

(Senate Bill 14), requires hazardous waste generators to consider source reduction as the 

preferred method of managing hazardous waste. Under this act, facilities that generate more 

than 12,000 kilograms (kg) of hazardous waste or 12 kg of extremely hazardous waste 

annually are required to conduct source reduction planning. 

Under an agreement between DOE and DTSC, all of DOE’s California sites are considered 

one waste generator, rather than individual DOE facilities. Every four years, SNL/CA 

completes a Source Reduction and Evaluation Review and Plan in cooperation with the three 

other DOE sites in California: Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL); Lawrence 

Berkeley National Laboratory; and Stanford Linear Accelerator Center. The most recent plan 

was submitted to DTSC on August 30, 2007 and provided information for calendar year 

2006. The plan also identifies waste reduction opportunities for any waste stream that is over 

five percent of a site’s total routine regulated waste. The next plan, which will include 

information from calendar year 2010, will be prepared in 2011. 

3.10.3 Pollution Prevention Act 

The Pollution Prevention Act of 1990 declares, as national policy, that pollution should be 

prevented or reduced at the source (42 USC § 13101 et. seq.). Facilities that meet the 

reporting requirements under EPCRA, Section 313 are also required to file a toxic chemical 

source reduction and recycling report. The Section 313 report for 2010 (for lead only) will 

include source reduction and recycling information to meet this requirement. The report is 
31

due annually on July 1. See Section 3.9.1 for additional information on EPCRA reporting 

requirements. 

3.11 Hazardous Waste 

3.11.1 Federal Facility Compliance Act 

The Federal Facility Compliance Act waives sovereign immunity with respect to RCRA for 

federal facilities (42 USC § 6961). The act gives EPA, and authorized states, authority to 

conduct annual inspections of federal facilities and establishes requirements for management 

of hazardous/mixed waste. 

SNL/CA is not subject to a site-specific federal facility compliance agreement for mixed 

waste. The site does not possess or store any legacy mixed waste. All mixed waste generated 

at SNL/CA during 2010 was appropriately managed under the site’s RCRA Hazardous Waste 

Facility Permit. 

3.11.2 Resource Conservation and Recovery Act 

RCRA regulates the generation, transportation, treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous 

chemical waste, non-hazardous solid waste, and hazardous or petroleum products stored in 

USTs (42 USC §6901 et. seq.). The State of California has authority from the EPA to 

implement RCRA. The DTSC administers most aspects of RCRA in the state, and is the 

regulating authority for hazardous waste operations at SNL/CA, including the hazardous 

component of radioactive mixed waste. 

SNL/CA operates a Hazardous Waste Treatment and Storage Facility under a RCRA 

Hazardous Waste Facility Permit issued by DTSC on March 30, 2004. The permit is effective 

through March 2014 and allows for storage and treatment of hazardous waste. 

By definition, SNL/CA is a large quantity generator of RCRA waste. As such, the site is 

required under RCRA standards and implementing regulations (40 CFR 262.41) to submit a 

biennial report to EPA on even numbered years. 

3.11.3 California Hazardous Waste Control Law 

The Hazardous Waste Control Law (California Health and Safety Code §25100 et. seq.) 

provides a separate regulatory framework for hazardous waste management in California. 

The state law incorporates all RCRA requirements and imposes additional requirements that 

are broader and more comprehensive than the federal system. Under the California law, 

additional waste materials (e.g., oils, metals, asbestos) or activities (e.g., treatment) are 

regulated as hazardous. State standards are incorporated into SNL/CA’s Waste Management 

Program so that California regulated waste is managed as hazardous waste in compliance 

with state requirements. 

The California Environmental Health Standards for Management of Hazardous Waste (22 

CCR, Division 4.5) require all permitted hazardous waste facilities to submit an annual 
32

facility report to DTSC. Annual facility reports provide information about the quantity of 

RCRA and California designated hazardous waste generated and stored at SNL/CA, and the 

quantity of waste shipped from the site. 

SNL/CA submits an annual facility report to DTSC either in the form of the federal Biennial 

Report or the California Annual Facility Report, or both if requested by DTSC. 

3.11.4 Medical Waste Management Act 

The California Medical Waste Management Act (California Health and Safety Code, 

Division 104, Part 14, §§ 117600-118360) provides for regulation of medical waste 

generators, transporters, and treatment facilities. The Alameda County Department of 

Environmental Health is the regulating authority for medical waste generated at SNL/CA. 

SNL/CA has two facilities identified as small quantity generators of medical waste, one with 

limited onsite treatment and one without onsite treatment. 

3.12 Radiation Protection 

3.12.1 Atomic Energy Act 

The purpose of the Atomic Energy Act is to assure the proper management of nuclear 

materials and radioactive waste (42 USC § 2011 et. seq.). The act allows DOE to set 

radiation protection standards to control exposure to the public and the environment that may 

result from operations at DOE facilities. DOE sets these standards through department 

directives or orders. Operations at SNL/CA are subject to the requirements established in 

DOE Order 435.1, Radioactive Waste Management (DOE 2001) and DOE Order 5400.5,

Radiation Protection of the Public and the Environment (DOE 1993). 

3.12.2 DOE Order 435.1, Radioactive Waste Management 

DOE Order 435.1 establishes requirements to manage radioactive waste in a manner that 

protects the environment, and worker and public health and safety. Under this order, DOE 

contractor operated facilities are required to plan, document, execute, and evaluate the 

management of radioactive waste. Requirements of Order 435.1 are incorporated into the 

SNL/CA radioactive waste management element of the Waste Management Program. The 

program includes certification and characterization of waste; provisions for inspections and 

audits; training requirements; and operating procedures for handling, storing, packaging, 

shipping, and offsite disposal of radioactive waste. 

SNL/CA generates low-level radioactive waste and low-level mixed waste. No transuranic or 

high-level radioactive waste is generated by SNL/CA operations. Low-level radioactive and 

mixed wastes are stored prior to shipment in the Radioactive Waste Treatment and Storage 

Facility. Low-level radioactive waste is shipped offsite to SNL/NM with final land disposal 

at the Nevada Test Site. Mixed Waste is managed under federal RCRA and state waste 

regulations and shipped offsite for treatment and disposal via commercial disposal facilities. 
33

3.12.3 DOE Order 5400.5, Radiation Protection of the Public and 

the Environment 

DOE Order 5400.5 sets radiation protection standards for DOE operations so that radiation 

exposures to members of the public and the environment are as low as reasonably achievable 

(ALARA) and maintained within established limits of the order. Table 3-2 provides a 

summary of SNL/CA compliance with this order in 2010.

Table 3-2 Order 5400.5 Compliance Summary, 2010

Order 5400.5 Requirement SNL/CA 2009 Summary

Maximum exposure to members of public = 100 

mrem/yr

There were no radionuclide emissions in 2010. 

The average annual gamma radiation 

measurement at the site perimeter in 2010 was 

58.8 mrem or 4 mrem more than distant locations, 

where the average annual dose was 54.8 mrem. 

The difference between perimeter and distant 

locations is most likely the result of normal 

fluctuations and natural variations in ambient 

radiation. 

Adopt ALARA exposures ALARA is incorporated into environment, safety, 

and health (ES&H) policy, processes, and 

procedures.

Control release of liquid radioactive wastes to the 

environment

No intentional discharges of liquid wastes to the 

environment occur onsite. No accidental releases 

of liquid radioactive waste occurred in 2010.

Control burial of low-level waste Disposal of low-level waste does not occur onsite. 

ES&H processes, procedures, and management 

systems are incorporated into site operations to 

ensure proper handling, and disposal of 

radioactive materials offsite at approved facilities. 

Control radioactive releases to the sanitary sewer Radioactive releases to the sanitary sewer above 

DOE 5400.5 guidelines are not allowed at 

SNL/CA. ES&H processes, procedures, and 

management systems are incorporated into site 

operations to ensure proper handling and disposal 

of radioactive materials. 

Implement environmental monitoring and 

surveillance 

An environmental monitoring and surveillance 

program has been in place at SNL/CA for more 

than 30 years. 

Control the release of property with residual 

radioactivity

SNL/CA does not release any property to the 

public with residual radioactivity above 

authorized limits. Excess property of this type is 

either transferred to other DOE facilities for reuse 

or transferred to Waste Management for disposal.

NESHAPS Dose evaluations There were no airborne radionuclide emission 

sources in 2010; therefore, there is no monitoring 

data available for dose evaluations. 
34

3.13 Water Quality and Protection 

SNL/CA is subject to the requirements of the Clean Water Act and equivalent California 

statutes. SNL/CA does not operate a public water system, and is not involved in any 

environmental restoration activities for which Safe Drinking Water Act standards are being 

applied. 

Drinking water at SNL/CA is purchased through LLNL and obtained from the San Francisco 

Water District or the Alameda County Flood Control and Water Conservation District, Zone 

7. The San Francisco Water District and Zone 7 are responsible for monitoring the quality of 

the incoming water. SNL/CA is not required to treat or sample the drinking water. LLNL 

maintains the primary drinking water distribution system that feeds to SNL/CA and screens 

for water quality (SNL/CA 2002). 

3.13.1 Clean Water Act 

The Clean Water Act regulates all direct discharges into navigable waters of the United 

States (U.S.) (33 USC § 1251). Direct discharges to waters of the U.S. require permits issued 

under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). In California, the State 

Water Resources Control Board has authority from EPA to implement the Clean Water Act. 

Federal permitting requirements are included in Waste Discharge Requirements issued by 

Regional Water Quality Control Boards. 

Wastewater Discharge 

Wastewater generated at SNL/CA is discharged to the City of Livermore Water Reclamation 

Plant, a publicly owned treatment works (POTW). The Livermore POTW maintains an 

NPDES permit, and then regulates industry discharges into their sewer system. A Wastewater 

Discharge Permit issued by the Livermore POTW regulates SNL/CA’s wastewater 

discharges. The permit is updated annually and includes discharge limits for the site sanitary 

sewer outfall and for processes subject to EPA pretreatment standards. Permit exceedances 

that occurred in 2010 at the sanitary sewer outfall are presented in Table 3-3 and discussed in 

detail in Section 3.15, Environmental Occurrences. For routine wastewater monitoring 

information, see Section 5.2.1. 

Table 3-3 Wastewater Discharge Permit Exceedances at Sanitary Sewer Outfall, 2010

Parameter No. of 

Samples 

Taken

No. of 

Compliant 

Samples

Percent 

Compliant

Date(s) of 

Exceedance

Description Status / Resolution

Copper 365 363 99% Feb. 6 and 7,

2010

Two 

exceedances for 

copper.

Changes to sampling 

protocol being 

implemented. Sources

of copper being 

evaluated. (See 

Section 3.15 for more 

detail.)
35

SNL/CA has three categorical processes that are subject to EPA’s pretreatment standards: 

two metal finishing operations, and a semiconductor manufacturing operation. The two metal 

finishing operations are closed-loop processes and do not discharge any effluents. 

Wastewater generated from the semiconductor manufacturing process is sampled and 

monitored as part of the Environmental Monitoring Program. There were no exceedances of 

the discharge limits from this source during 2010. 

Storm Water Discharge 

General storm water discharges at SNL/CA are covered under the State of California NPDES 

General Permit for Storm Water Discharge Associated with Industrial Activities (General 

Permit) (California Water Resources Control Board 1997). The General Permit requires 

SNL/CA to implement a storm water pollution prevention plan. The SNL/CA plan describes 

the rationale for monitoring discharge locations and identifies best management practices for 

reducing pollutant contact with storm water. 

The current General Permit does not contain numeric limits or standards for storm water 

discharges. However, the most current draft of the new Industrial General Permit does 

identify limits. The new Industrial General Permit is expected to be adopted sometime in 

2011. When the new permit becomes effective, Sandia will compare storm water analytical 

results to the standards as required by the General Permit. 

SNL/CA’s storm water management program also incorporates the six minimum control 

measures required by the California Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) 

General Permit. The MS4 General Permit was adopted in 2003 to meet EPA Phase II storm 

water regulations. Although the MS4 General Permit is not yet a regulatory requirement for 

SNL/CA, the site anticipates that it will be regulated as a non-traditional small MS4 when 

notification is provided by the regulating agency. The Small MS4 General Permit will require 

full implementation of a Storm Water Management Program , addressing the six minimum 

control measures, within five years of notification / designation as a non-traditional Small 

MS4. In addition to proactively incorporating the minimum control measures into the 

existing storm water management program, SNL/CA completed a five-year implementation 

schedule in 2008. 

In 2010, SNL/CA visually monitored 21 storm water discharge locations and sampled nine 

locations. The result of monitoring and sampling activities conducted in 2010 did not identify 

any issues of concern. Section 5.1 presents a summary of 2010 results.

3.14 Audits, Assessments, and Inspections 

Table 3-4 provides a list of environmental program audits, assessments, and/or inspections 

conducted at SNL/CA during 2010. 
36

Table 3-4 SNL/CA Audits, Assessments, and Inspections, 2010

Title Area of Focus Date Conducted Results

Alameda County Inspection

Erosion at the Navy Landfill 

site October 27, 2010

No violations. 

Requested cleaning of 

storm drain.

City of Livermore, Water 

Resources Division 

Inspections

Wastewater discharges and 

categorical process 

laboratories 

October 18 and 19, 

2010 No violations

Third Party Environmental 

Management System (EMS) 

Surveillance Audit (NSFISR)Conformance with the ISO 

14001:2004 EMS standard July 12- 15, 2010

Two minor nonconformances

Alameda County Inspection Underground Storage Tanks March 10, 2010 Five minor violations

Bay Area Air Quality 

Management District

Permitted air emission 

sources

May 18 and July 29, 

2010 No violations

DOE/SSO Stormwater 

Program Assessment

Stormwater permitting and 

project plans August 24, 2010

No violations; four 

observations

DTSC California Integrated 

Waste Management Board 

Audit Waste Tire Manifest program April 2010 No violations.

3.15 Environmental Occurrences 

SNL/CA recieved two environmental occurrences in 2010. The first occurrence was for two 

exceedances (resulting in two NOVs) of sanitary sewer discharge limits in February 2010. 

The copper discharge limits were exceeded because building process effluent contained in 

sump tanks were discharged to the sewer system by ejector pumps. The pumps were 

switched to manual operation because the sump tanks were near overflowing due to 

combination of rainwater and normal drainage processes. During this period, the pumps were 

manually operated several times and allowed to run three to four minutes beyond the low set 

point, completely discharging the tanks. As the tanks emptied, the sediment at the bottom of 

the tanks was dislodged and ultimately discharged to the sewer system. Analytical results for 

the daily samples collected on February 6 and 7, 2010 showed copper concentrations of 3.5 

mg/L and 3.7 mg/L, respectively. The discharge limit for copper is 1.0 mg/L. All key sump 

tanks were identified, mapped, and placed on a preventive maintenance schedule. 

Additionally, removal of sediment from several identified sumps is scheduled for 2011. 

The second occurrence in 2010 resulted from a violation of hazardous materials and waste 

laws related to chemical research processes conducted at SNL/CA. On August 9, 2010, 

SNL/CA received an NOV from the Alameda County Department of Environmental Health. 

The NOV cites four environmentally-related issues and stems from a site inspection that 

occurred in September and October 2008. Three of the four environmental issues relate to 

hazardous waste treatment and permitting requirements. The remaining issue involves 

hazardous material reporting requirements. Sandia’s management team continues to work 

with Alameda County Department of Environmental Health to develop and implement a 

comprehensive plan for addressing the treatment and permitting concerns raised during the 

site inspection. The hazardous material reporting issue was immediately corrected. 
37

3.16 Permits 

Environmental permits and clean-up orders held by SNL/CA are listed in Table 3-5. 

Additional information is provided in previous sections under the related program or 

regulation. 

Table 3-5 SNL/CA Environmental Permits and Orders, 2010 

Type Description Effective Date

Statute / 

Regulation Issuing Agency

Environmental 

restoration

Site Clean-up Order No. 

89-184

December 1989 (no 

expiration date)

California Water 

Code

Regional Water Quality Control 

Board, San Francisco Bay

Hazardous 

materials

Business Plan Permit to 

Operate

November 1 -

October 31, annually

California Health 

and Safety Code

Alameda County Dept. of 

Environmental Health

Hazardous 

waste

RCRA Hazardous 

Waste Facility Permit 

March 2004 - March 

2014

Resource 

Conservation and 

Recovery Act

California Department of Toxic 

Substances Control

Hazardous 

waste

Permit by Rule November 1 -

October 31, annually

California Health 

and Safety Code

Alameda County Dept. of 

Environmental Health

Hazardous 

waste

Conditionally 

Authorized Permit to 

Operate

November 1 -

October 31, annually

California Health 

and Safety Code

Alameda County Dept. of 

Environmental Health

Medical waste Small Quantity 

Generator with Onsite 

Treatment

August 9 - August 

8, annually

California Health 

and Safety Code

Alameda County Dept. of 

Environmental Health

Medical waste Small Quantity 

Generator without 

Onsite Treatment

April 11 - April 10, 

annually

California Health 

and Safety Code

Alameda County Dept. of 

Environmental Health

Wastewater Wastewater Discharge 

Permit

August 4 - August 3, 

annually

Clean Water Act City of Livermore Water 

Reclamation Plant

Storm water State of California 

General Industrial 

Permit

July 1997 - July 

2002a

Clean Water Act California Water Resources 

Control Board

Jurisdictional 

waters of the 

U.S.

Channel Improvements 

under the Arroyo Seco 

Improvement Program

September 25, 2008 –

July 11, 2018

Clean Water Act Army Corp of Engineers

Underground 

storage tank

Permit to Operate November 1 -

October 31, annually

Resource 

Conservation and 

Recovery Act and 

California Health 

and Safety Code

Alameda County Dept. of 

Environmental Health

Aboveground 

storage tanks

Storage statement July 1 - June 30, 

annually

Aboveground 

Petroleum 

Storage Act

Alameda County Dept. of 

Environmental Health

Air Permit to Operate 13 

emission sourcesb 

July 1 - June 30, 

annually

Clean Air Act Bay Area Air Quality 

Management District

Universal 

waste

Generator statement February 1, 2006 California

Electronic Waste 

Recycling Act

California Department of Toxic 

Substances Control

a

 The current General Permit continues in effect until a new permit is issued by the State Water Resources Control Board 

(Permit Section C.18). When the renewal process is complete and a new General Permit is issued by the State, SNL/CA will 

apply for coverage under the new permit. 

bEmission sources include 1 non-retail gasoline dispensing facility, 5 miscellaneous sources (decontamination sink, waste 

compactor, drum crusher, and 2 site-wide sources for solvent emissions), 6 emergency generators, and 1 portable generator 

with discretionary usage.
38

4 Environmental Management

Sandia National Laboratories, California (SNL/CA) is firmly committed to sound 

environmental stewardship practices as well as compliance with environmental requirements. 

SNL/CA meets this commitment 

through an environmental 

management system (EMS) that 

integrates traditional environmental 

program elements with objectives for 

improving the environmental footprint 

of site operations. The site’s EMS 

program is dynamic, encompassing an 

annual cycle of planning, 

implementing, assessing, and 

improving operations in support of 

site-specific environmental goals. 

SNL/CA’s EMS program conforms to 

the international standard for 

environmental management systems, 

ISO 14001. SNL/CA initially received 

ISO 14001:2004 registration on 

September 25, 2006. In June 2009, the 

site underwent a successful audit to the 

ISO 14001 standard and received reregistration for an additional 3-year 

period on July 5, 2009. To ensure that 

the site maintains conformance with 

the standard, surveillance audits are 

conducted periodically. The most 

recent surveillance audit of the 

SNL/CA EMS program was conducted 

in July 2010, resulting in continuation 

of certification and three minor nonconformances. 

4.1 EMS Elements 

SNL/CA’s EMS Program encompasses the seventeen elements of an effective EMS as 

identified in the ISO 14001:2004 standard. These elements are consistent with DOE Order 

450.1A Environmental Protection Program, updated in June 2008, that requires DOE 

facilities to follow the ISO framework. Table 4-1 identifies the EMS elements and 

summarizes the methods, tools, and programs implemented in support of each. 

 

SNL/CA Environment, Safety, and Health (ES&H)

 Standard of Performance 

SNL/CA is firmly committed to meeting all corporate and 

regulatory ES&H policies and requirements that apply to its 

operations. The application of compliant ES&H principles and 

practices is considered a fundamental element of everyone’s 

work assignment. 

In this regard, SNL/CA commits to: 

 Nurture a safety and health conscious work ethic and 

culture. We will all assume responsibility for creating and 

maintaining a worksite, as well as performing our work, in a 

manner that respects and supports the safety and health of 

every individual. SNL/CA believes that all accidents are 

preventable. We will all strive to create a workplace that is 

free of accidents and injuries. 

 Be a responsible steward of the environmental resources 

in our care. We will integrate environmental risk 

assessment, planning and impact mitigation into every 

aspect of our work. SNL/CA programs, operations, 

processes, and facilities will be planned and managed such 

that they support environmental objectives and targets to 

minimize the creation of waste, pollution, and adverse 

impact on the public and the environment. SNL/CA will 

remain committed to an efficient and effective 

Environmental Management System as part of the 

laboratory’s Integrated Safety Management System.

 Comply with all applicable laws, regulations and 

permits. Compliance with the letter and the spirit of ES&H 

laws and regulations is viewed as the minimum acceptable 

standard. When necessary and appropriate we will go 

beyond legal mandates in order to implement more effective 

approaches and to nurture a positive and learning ES&H 

culture. SNL/CA is committed to continual improvement in 

all aspects of our environment, safety, and health 

performance and commits to establish performance 

indicators to guide these efforts and measure our progress.
39

Table 4-1 Elements of the SNL/CA EMS Program 

EMS Element Implementation Summary

Environmental 

policy

SNL/CA operates under a site-specific ES&H standard of performance that reinforces 

individual accountability, environmental stewardship, and compliance. SNL/CA stresses the 

need to move beyond compliance to nurturing of a positive ES&H culture at all levels of the 

workforce.

Environmental 

aspects

Environmental aspects are elements of operations and activities that can interact with the 

environment, such as water discharges. SNL/CA evaluates site activities and operations 

annually to ensure environmental aspects are up-to-date and accurate. From this complete 

list (19 aspects), significant aspects are determined through a risk evaluation. For 2010, 

SNL/CA’s significant environmental aspects are water discharges, air emissions, land use, 

general transportation, and hazardous waste.

Legal and other 

requirements

Sandia maintains a formal process for monitoring federal, state, and local government 

publications for regulatory changes and issues applicable to Sandia operations. SNL/CA 

augments this process by monitoring publications specific to functional environmental 

program areas and through interaction with regulating agencies. Environmental subject 

matter experts analyze all new requirements, and team with other site personnel to achieve 

compliance. New requirements and modifications to environmental programs are

documented in annual program reports. 

Objectives and 

targets

SNL/CA’s EMS objectives support efforts to reduce potential environmental risk and 

enhance environmental stewardship. Broad objectives were established for all environmental 

aspects. The inclusion of objectives for all aspects is a best business practice that provides an 

expectation of overall environmental stewardship across the spectrum of activities conducted 

on site. SNL/CA evaluates and sets annual targets to support site objectives. At a minimum, 

targets are set for significant aspects and actions are identified to meet these targets. 

SNL/CA’s 2010 objectives are to:

 Provide exceptional environmental management for the site.

 Minimize the volume and contamination of sewer water.

 Minimize the volume and pollution of storm water runoff.

 Minimize air emissions related to operations and transportation with particular 

emphasis on Spare-the-Air days.

 Procure and use environmentally friendly products and materials.

 Enhance the natural habitat.

 Design and manage all buildings and facilities using “green” principles.

 Minimize the environmental impacts of transportation.

 Minimize the use of hazardous materials.

 Minimize the use of radiological materials.

 Minimize the generation of radioactive and mixed waste.

 Minimize the use of biological materials.

 Minimize the environmental impacts of site contaminated areas.

 Minimize the generation of hazardous waste.

 Establish an effective and efficient process for management of universal waste.

 Reduce site legacy asbestos material.

 Minimize the quantity of landfill waste through reduced consumption and/or 

reuse/recycling.

 Minimize the potential environmental effects of hazardous material due to 

transportation.

 Maximize the use of commute alternatives by members of the workforce.

 Minimize site natural gas consumption.

 Minimize site water consumption.

 Minimize site electrical consumption.

 Minimize the environmental effects of a site fire emergency.

 Minimize the environmental effects of a site seismic event. 
40

EMS Element Implementation Summary

Environmental 

programs

SNL/CA’s EMS Program is supported by six functional environmental programs.

Air Quality 

Environmental Monitoring

Environmental Planning and Ecology 

Hazardous Materials Management 

Pollution Prevention and Waste Minimization 

Waste Management

Structure, 

responsibilities, 

and authorities

SNL/CA’s EMS Program is implemented through existing site management and 

organizational structures. The site Vice President holds overall responsibility for success of 

the EMS Program. Director and senior management personnel ensure availability of 

resources. An environmental management representative and EMS core team are responsible 

for day-to-day management of the program. All members of the workforce hold 

responsibility and authority to implement EMS elements into their operations.

Competence, 

training, and

awareness

SNL/CA employs a variety of mechanisms to ensure that the site workforce and visitors 

maintain the appropriate training and competence levels for their assignments, and to foster 

awareness. These mechanisms include corporate training programs, site-specific training 

programs, and activity-specific training programs. For contractor-directed activities that 

occur on site, SNL/CA issues standard specifications that identify training, credentials, and 

certifications required for each project.

Communication

SNL/CA communicates EMS information internally through project review teams, 

publications, websites, briefings, assessments, and promotional information. Information is 

communicated externally through publications, websites, SNL/CA’s Public and Media 

Relations Office, and regulatory-driven documents. 

EMS

documentation

SNL/CA maintains an EMS Program Manual as the primary EMS document for the site. 

General corporate and site policies, document systems, and databases provide supporting 

documentation for the EMS Program.

Document 

control

At SNL/CA, document control is accomplished with electronic documents that are available 

in online databases. If paper copies of technical work documents are maintained at the point 

of use, department managers ensure that a process is in place to keep them up to date. 

Permits and other regulatory documents of external origin are typically marked as valid for a 

specified period and controlled by limited distribution coordinated by environmental 

program leads.

Operational 

controls

Sandia employs an integrated system to address ES&H concerns associated with site 

operations. This integrated system provides the framework for planning work, evaluating 

hazards, identifying controls, conducting work, and improving work processes. Unique to 

SNL/CA, the ES&H, Facilities, and Security Interdisciplinary Team supports integrated 

safety and environmental management to ensure requirements and controls are identified 

during project planning. Typical operational controls used at SNL/CA include technical 

work documents, environmental permits and compliance documents, contract specifications, 

and a variety of engineered controls.

Emergency 

preparedness 

and response

An established Emergency Management Program that maintains responsibility for 

preparedness and response supports SNL/CA’s EMS Program. Emergency Management 

conducts routine drills and communication tests, and annually conducts site-wide training 

exercises. Environmental representatives are active members of emergency response teams 

to ensure that potential environmental risks are managed and mitigated appropriately. 

Monitoring and 

measurement

Each of the six SNL/CA functional environmental programs monitors and measures the key 

characteristics of site operations that can affect the environment. Data collected supports 

compliance requirements as well as assessment of the site’s overall progress in meeting 

EMS objectives. Monitoring data and metrics are available to the public in annual 

environmental reports. 

Evaluating 

compliance

SNL/CA evaluates compliance with all environmental requirements through the 

Interdisciplinary Team process, self-assessments, and audits. 
41

EMS Element Implementation Summary

Nonconformity, 

corrective, and 

preventive 

action

SNL/CA documents, tracks, and verifies corrective and preventive actions with electronic

assessment tracking and corrective action systems. The EMS Core Team also established a 

procedure for validating the effectiveness of select actions and to reduce the potential for 

recurrence of significant nonconformities. 

Records All information created by Sandia operations is managed as a record. ES&H information 

created at SNL/CA is managed by the site ES&H Records Center. 

Management 

review

SNL/CA’s top management team (VP and directors) review the EMS Program semiannually. In 2010, management reviews resulted in four actions/recommendations related to 

environmental impact reviews, hazardous materials, and diesel fleet modifications. 

4.2 Environmental Performance 

SNL/CA measures the site’s environmental performance by tracking progress towards 

achieving EMS objectives and corporate performance measures established jointly between 

Sandia and the National Nuclear Security Administration, Sandia Site Office (NNSA/SSO). 

Data is available to measure many EMS objectives, but not all. In 2010, the site measured 

performance towards achieving 14 of the 24 established objectives. One corporate 

performance measure was also applicable to SNL/CA activities. The following diagrams and 

text summarize the site’s progress and improvement in the last year. Table 4-1 provides the 

complete list of EMS objectives. 

Program Management Objective: Provide exceptional environmental 

management for the site 

SNL/CA tracks noncompliance with environmental requirements as a measure of our 

environmental management performance. Figure 4-1 shows the number of findings from 

third-party audits (includes DOE), notices of violation, and other environmental occurrences 

since 2000. The site goal is zero findings and zero violations. SNL/CA received three notices 

of violation and five minor violations/findings in 2010. As a routine element of the EMS 

Program, Sandia identifies and implements corrective and preventive actions in an effort to 

improve environmental performance and reach the site goal of zero violations and zero 

findings. 

This objective also supports a 2010 

NNSA/SSO performance measure to 

maintain an effective EMS. SNL/CA 

became the first Sandia division to 

obtain ISO 14001:2004 registration 

for its EMS. By conforming to the 

ISO standard, SNL/CA integrates 

sound environmental stewardship 

practices with regulatory compliance 

to reduce the site’s environmental 

footprint. Sandia received a rating of 

outstanding for this performance 

measure. 
42

Figure 4-1 Measurement of Excellence in Environmental Management 

Water Discharge Objective: Minimize the volume and contamination of sewer 

water 

SNL/CA continuously monitors wastewater generated on site. Figures 4-2 and 4-3 show the 

trend in weekly monitoring results since 2000 for copper and zinc, respectively. As shown, 

the site has experienced a gradual upward trend in levels of copper at the sewer outfall. The 

levels of zinc show a slight downward trend. Efforts that support improvement in sewer 

water quality are described in Chapter 5, Environmental Monitoring. Also reflected on the 

graphs are SNL/CA’s goals of maintaining the level of copper and zinc below the regulatory 

analysis trigger level (0.5 mg/L for copper and 1.5 mg/L for zinc). 
43

Figure 4-2 Weekly Composite Copper Concentrations in Wastewater 

Figure 4-3 Weekly Composite Zinc Concentrations in Wastewater 
44

Figure 4-4 shows volume of sewer effluent discharged by SNL/CA from 2000 through 2010. 

Sewer discharge in 2010 was 25.4 million gallons, approximately nine million gallons more 

than in 2009. SNL/CA has a stated goal of reducing the quantity of sewer effluent, although 

no numeric targets have been set. As shown on Figure 4-4, wastewater discharges at the site 

show an increasing trend over the last eleven years. 

Figure 4-4 Annual Wastewater Discharges 

Water Discharge Objective: Minimize the volume and pollution of storm water 

runoff 

The State of California has not yet implemented numeric limits for pollutants in storm water. 

However, parameters such as total suspended solids (TSS) and oil and grease (O&G) are 

indicative of the quality of storm water runoff from SNL/CA parking lots and roads. Many 

factors can affect the quantities of TSS and O&G in the runoff, such as the length of dry 

weather before sample collection, volume of runoff during the storm, etc. SNL/CA’s target 

for storm water is to clean debris from the entire storm water drainage system at least once 

per year to support minimizing pollution in the runoff. Only 43 percent of the storm drain 

system was inspected and cleaned in 2010. In addition, SNL/CA implements street sweeping 

as another best management practice, which also minimizes storm water pollutants. In 2010,

Sandia collected approximately 98 cubic yards of debris during street cleaning efforts, thus 

removing potential storm water pollutants. Figure 4-5 shows the highest TSS and O&G 
45

concentrations obtained at SNL/CA storm water sampling locations during the 2009/2010 

rainy season. The highest concentration of TSS in storm water during 2009/2010 (252 mg/L) 

was higher than that obtained during the 2008/2009 rainy season (109 mg/L). The 

concentration of O&G in 2009/2010 was below the detection limit of 5 mg/L for all samples. 

Figure 4-5 Constituents in Storm Water, 2009/2010 Rainy Season 

Air Emissions Objective: Minimize air emissions related to operations and 

transportation with emphasis on Spare-the-Air (STA) days

During the summer of 2010, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) 

issued eight weekday STA advisories, the same as in 2009. Advisories notify the public when 

air pollution is expected to reach unhealthy concentrations and to encourage Bay Area 

residents to take individual action to reduce harmful pollutants. In 2008, the Air Quality 

Program established an EMS target to maintain on-site fueling operations on STA days at an 

average of less than or equal to three fill-ups per STA day. A program was developed and 

implemented that encourages site personnel to plan their gasoline fueling activities for either 

before or after a STA day. During the 2010 STA season there were 16 fill-ups at the onsite 
46

gasoline tank over the eight (weekday) STA days. This is an average of two fill-ups per STA day, 

down from an average of seven on a typical workday. For the seventh consecutive year, the 

Sandia/CA workforce has met an Air Quality EMS target of maintaining the number of fill-ups 

on STA days to three or less. Figure 4-6 shows the number of fill-ups on STA days over the 

last eight years. 

Figure 4-6 Number of Vehicle Fill-ups on STA Days 

Material Procurement and Use Objective: Procure and use environmentally 

friendly products and materials (supports DOE sustainable environmental 

stewardship goals) 

The target established for this objective was for purchases made by the Affirmative 

Procurement Program to equal or exceed 95 percent of available procurements. During 2009, 

SNL/CA exceeded this target by achieving 97 percent for affirmative procurement purchases. 

In 2010, DOE changed the reporting requirements for affirmative procurement to focus on 16 

of the applicable 66 categories of products; consequently, a comparison for 2010 is not 

available. This target was retired in 2010. Figure 4-7 presents affirmative procurement data 

for 2004 through 2009. 
47

Figure 4-7 Procurement of Environmentally Friendly Products 

Land Use Objective: Enhance the natural habitat 

In June 2006, SNL/CA initiated an Arroyo Seco Improvement Program to address erosion 

and storm water control within the arroyo. The improvement program includes restoration of 

riparian habitat at select locations along the arroyo. SNL/CA restored approximately 0.05 

acres of riparian habitat in 2006 and 2.49 acres in 2009 by planting a variety of native trees 

and reseeding disturbed areas with native grasses. The goal for tree survival at all areas is 85 

percent. For grasses and shrubs, the goal is 75 percent cover. For areas planted in 2006, the 

survival rate of trees is less than five percent currently. The poor survival rate is attributed to 

the lack of a functioning irrigation system in the restored areas. In 2009, SNL/CA completed 

repairs and/or restoration at nine additional locations along the arroyo. Two areas previously 

planted were also replanted in 2009. Irrigation systems were installed at each restored site to 

support plant growth and survival. Plant survival was evaluated in October 2010. Willow and 

tree survival at many of the restored sites currently meets or exceeds the overall success 

criteria established in the permit (85%). A minimal amount of replanting of willows will be 

needed. An accurate estimate of native grass/shrub cover was difficult to assess given the 

time of year that the evaluation was completed. Native grass/shrub cover will be re-evaluated 

in June during these species growing season. 
48

Hazardous Materials Objective: Minimize the use of hazardous materials 

(supports DOE sustainable environmental stewardship goals) 

The overall goal of SNL/CA’s EMS Program is protection of the environment from the 

negative effects of site activities including hazardous materials use. Central to this defense of 

the environment, is proper hazardous material inventory management. Right-sizing the 

inventory and minimizing toxicity is, therefore, key to environmentally friendly hazardous 

materials management. As shown in Figure 4-8 the number of hazardous material containers 

peaked in 2003. In 2010, the number of containers overall increased by 2.9 percent and the 

number of containers for higher toxicity materials (shown as NFPA Health 3&4) increased 

by 8 percent. 

Figure 4-8 SNL/CA Hazardous Material Inventory 

Radioactive and Hazardous Waste Objectives: Minimize the generation of 

radioactive and hazardous waste (supports DOE sustainable environmental 

stewardship goals) 

Although SNL/CA does not have a specific target for this objective, we strive to minimize 

generation of radioactive and hazardous waste through process controls, recycling, and

reapplication of chemicals from one activity to another. Figures 4-9 and 4-10 show hazardous 

and radioactive waste generated since 2005, respectively. As shown, waste generation in both 

categories fluctuates from year to year depending on the nature and scope of research and 

facilities projects conducted. Over the last several years, SNL/CA has undertaken a number 
49

of campaigns to identify and remove old chemicals from the site inventory. These activities 

contributed to an increase in hazardous waste for 2009 and 2010. SNL/CA also experienced 

an increase in radioactive waste in 2010; however, the total quantity generated is small and 

consistent with quantities generated since 2005. 

Asbestos Objective: Reduce site legacy asbestos material 

SNL/CA reduces site legacy asbestos material through routine abatement completed along 

with facility modification projects. In 2010, Sandia completed three asbestos abatement 

activities generating 2,436 kilograms of asbestos waste. Asbestos waste is a component of 

total hazardous waste presented in Figure 4-9. 

Figure 4-9 Hazardous Waste Generated at SNL/CA 
50

Figure 4-10 Radioactive Waste Generated at SNL/CA 

Solid Waste Objective: Minimize the quantity of landfill waste through reduced 

consumption and/or reuse/recycling 

In 2010, SNL/CA established two targets to support our objective of minimizing the quantity 

of solid waste that is sent to the landfill. The targets are to divert from disposal 50% of nonhazardous waste and 50% of construction/demolition debris by fiscal year 2015. These 

targets are also consistent with the goals of Executive Order 13514. As shown in 

Figures 4-11 and 4-12, Sandia met both targets in 2010 through recycling of fifteen waste 

streams. The quantity of routine non-hazardous solid waste (excludes construction debris) 

sent to the landfill in 2010 also decreased from 2009, by 7 metric tons. Figure 4-13 presents 

routine landfill waste data for fiscal years 2003 to 2010. 
51

Figure 4-11 Non-Hazardous Solid Waste Diverted From Landfill Disposal

Figure 4-12 Construction / Demolition Debris Diverted From Landfill Disposal 
52

Figure 4-13 SNL/CA Landfill Waste 

Energy Use Objectives: Minimize site consumption of natural gas and 

electricity 

SNL/CA defers to the Sandia corporate energy program for targets in support of energy 

reduction. The corporate target is to reduce energy consumption by two percent per year for a 

total of 24 percent by the end of fiscal year 2020 from a fiscal year 2008 baseline. This target 

is consistent with the goals established in Executive Order 13514. Figure 4-14 shows 

SNL/CA’s energy use since 2008. Energy consumption (presented as Therms/SF), when 

normalized by building square footage, shows a slight increasing trend since 2008. 
53

Figure 4-14 SNL/CA Energy Consumption 

Water Use Objective: Minimize site water consumption 

Figure 4-15 presents fiscal year water use data for SNL/CA since 20073. SNL/CA’s target for 

water use is a 26 percent reduction in fiscal year 2020, using fiscal year 2007 data as a 

baseline. The target is consistent with the new requirements of Executive Order 13514. 

Overall, between 2007 and 2010 water use at SNL/CA decreased by eleven percent. 

However, the site experienced an increase in water use between 2009 and 2010. This increase 

was likely the result of regulatory-required watering of Arroyo Seco restoration areas. 

 

3

 Data presented in Section 2.4.2 reflects calendar year data and differs from that presented in Figure 4-15 

which reflects fiscal year data. 
54

Figure 4-15 Water Consumption at SNL/CA 

4.3 Functional Environmental Program Highlights 

Six functional environmental programs support environmental management at SNL/CA, air 

quality, environmental monitoring, environmental planning and ecology, hazardous materials 

management, pollution prevention and waste minimization, and waste management. The 

following sections summarize the responsibilities of each program and identify the highlights 

that occurred during 2010. 

4.3.1 Air Quality Program 

The Air Quality Program provides compliance assistance for all nonradiological air emission 

sources at SNL/CA. Program staff review all directives, laws, and regulations relevant to air 

emissions for applicability to the site. This program manages the air permit process, from the 

initial steps of preparing permit applications through implementation of permit conditions 

and annual renewals. The Air Quality Program is responsible for evaluating proposed 

projects, assessing chemical use, and assessing emissions of all criteria pollutants and toxic 

air contaminants. 

Federal, state, and local agencies continue to develop measures to reduce exposure to toxic 

air contaminants and criteria pollutants. In addition, the State of California is well underway 

in implementing many new regulations aimed at reducing emissions from diesel engines and 

greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6). This past 
55

year, the Federal government has also started addressing greenhouse gas emissions, primarily 

requiring data collection and reporting. Most of the Air Quality Program’s efforts and 

accomplishments throughout 2010 were related to these topics, and are listed below: 

 timely completion and submission of the BAAQMD Annual Update Package 

(supporting documentation and data for renewal of BAAQMD Permit To Operate); 

 prepared a site-wide SF6 inventory; 

 implemented CA Air Resources Board’s regulation pertaining to detecting and 

minimizing SF6 leaks from Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS); 

 implemented CA Air Resources Board’s regulation pertaining to the use of SF6 in 

SNL/CA’s accelerator and TEMs. Registered the SNL/CA site as a Research 

Facility; 

 implemented CA Air Resources Board’s regulation pertaining to greenhouse gas 

emissions from Semiconductor Operations; 

 continued to collect usage data for off-road diesel vehicles to use in identifying which 

vehicles will be able to be classified as “Low Use” and thereby subject to fewer 

requirements; 

 characterized the on-road diesel vehicle fleet and collected usage data (hours and 

miles) for future use in determining fleet emission requirements; 

 developed strategy for SNL/CA’s forklift fleet to comply with CA Air Resources 

Board’s Large Spark Ignition emission limits; 

 teamed with SNL/CA’s Facilities Engineering group to procure 7 new boilers that 

will replace existing boilers in order to meet new BAAQMD emissions limits for 

industrial boilers; 

 underwent a BAAQMD inspection of all 28 permitted and exempt sources on the 

SNL/CA site. All sources were found to be in compliance with applicable regulatory 

requirements and permit operating conditions; 

 implemented the BAAQMD’s regulation pertaining to SNL/CA’s polymer resin 

operations. 

4.3.2 Environmental Monitoring Program 

The Environmental Monitoring Program routinely monitors wastewater, storm water, and 

groundwater systems at SNL/CA to assess the affect of site operations on the public and local 

environment. Monitoring of external radiation at the site perimeter is also conducted under 

this program. Routine monitoring activities and results are presented in Chapter 5. 
56

During 2010, the Environmental Monitoring Program focused on modifying the sampling 

system design at the sanitary sewer sampling station, and on cleaning the sewer system. The 

new sampling system will be operational in 2011. The sewer system was cleaned during the 

summer of 2010, and selected sewer sumps will be cleaned in early 2011. 

The Environmental Monitoring Program also continued to investigate methods to control or 

eliminate the metals in the sewer effluent during 2010. SNL/CA now believes that the higher 

than expected presence of copper and other metals in the sanitary sewer, in general, is due to 

biochemical processes that take place under anaerobic conditions that cause a concentration 

of metals from dilute, diffuse sources across the campus. 

4.3.3 Environmental Planning and Ecology Program 

The Environmental Planning and Ecology Program provides oversight for ecological 

resource management, National Environmental Policy Act reviews, and cultural and historic 

resource reviews. Each year, the Environmental Planning and Ecology Program compares 

actual site operations to the maximum operations scenario presented in a site-wide 

environmental assessment (SWEA) to determine whether SNL/CA operations remain within 

the bounding impact analysis. Table 4-2 presents a summary of the comparison and an 

evaluation of the results. 

4.3.4 Hazardous Materials Management Program 

The Hazardous Materials Management Program is responsible for tracking hazardous 

materials (chemical and biological), managing the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) 

library, providing MSDS information to site personnel, and for regulatory compliance 

reporting required under various hazardous materials regulations. 

Each year, the Hazardous Materials Management Program conducts an annual hazardous 

material inventory reconciliation. In 2010, the reconciliation team achieved a 95% percent 

“found rate”, the same as in 2009. This equals the highest rate achieved since annual 

reconciliations began over fifteen years ago. This result exceeds the SNL/CA EMS 

performance target of greater than or equal to 94 percent. 
57

Table 4-2 Comparison of 2010 Operations with SWEA Envelope

Activity / Unit

SWEA Envelope (maximum 

operations) Calendar Year 2010

Site Operations Remain 

Within Impact Analysis

Proposed Action

Site mission Supports DOE, NNSA, DHS No change Yes

Arroyo Seco 

improvements 20 tasks 14 tasks completed Yes

Increase operations Increase to 2 shifts 1 shift Yes

New facilities

5,000 sf badge office; new 

16,000 sf laboratory; 84,000 sf 

laboratory replacement for 

Building 916 

9,000 sf as of December 

31, 2010 (badge office 

trailer 500 sf, 

computational facility 

8,500 sf) Yes

Demolition 100,000 sf 

38,376 sf as of 

December 31, 2010 Yes

Land Use

Construction area 93 acres 

8 acres as of December 

31, 2010 Yes

Wildlife reserve 30 acres 106 acres

Yes – results in a positive 

effect

Geology / Soil

Solid waste 

management units 23 units total 22 units Yes

Soil removed 5000 cu yd/yr 0 cu yd Yes

Soil managed onsite 5000 cu yd/yr 80 cu yd Yes

Backfill material 

brought onsite 6000 cu yd/yr 0 cu yd Yes

Infrastructure

Water use 91.8 million gal/yr 60.04 million gals Yes 

Sanitary sewer 

discharge 29.1 million gal/yr 25.4 million gals Yes

Natural gas use 94 million cu ft/yr 81.6 million cu fte Yes

Electricity use 48,800 MW h/yr 37,054 MW hrse Yes

Biological and Ecological 

Resources

Construct flood plains 

in Arroyo Seco 1800 linear feet 360 linear feet Yes

Create riparian habitat 0.2 acres 

2.54 acres as of 

December 31. 2010 Yes

Ground disturbance in / 

along arroyo 10 acres 

< 3 acres as of 

December 31, 2010 Yes

Cultural Resources None known onsite No change Yes

Water Resources 

Impervious surface area 76.9 acres total 92 acres No

Irrigation water use 17 million gal/yr not measured Unknown4

Waste Generation

Radioactive waste 8,811 kg/yr 98 kg Yes 

Hazardous waste 133,820 kg/yr 59,741 kg Yes

Construction debris

(sub-set of solid waste) 200 tons/yr

191 metric tons 

recycledf

33.8 metric tons

landfilledf Yes

 

4

 Irrigation water is not metered at SNL/CA. Data presented in past reports was estimated. In 2008, this 

methodology was determined to provide inaccurate calculations of irrigation water use. Sandia currently has no 

plans to install a water metering system. However, efforts will continue to reduce the quantity of water used for 

irrigation by installing “smart” control systems. 
58

Activity / Unit

SWEA Envelope (maximum 

operations) Calendar Year 2010

Site Operations Remain 

Within Impact Analysis

Proposed Action

Solid waste (nonhazardous, excludes 

construction debris) 378.7 metric tons/yr 92 metric tonsf Yes

Transportation

Hazardous / radioactive 

waste shipments 116 shipments/yr 23 shipments Yes

Non-hazardous waste 

shipments (solid waste and 

construction debris) 80 shipments/yr 32 shipments Yes 

Air Emissions

Total criteria pollutants 8,212 kg/yr 4,829 kga Yes 

Total air toxics 2,880.16 kg/yr 1,075 kga Yes

Radioactive 0 emissions 0 emissions Yes

Permits 57 permits annually 13 / 13 permitsb Yes

Human Health

Recordable accidents / 

injuries 78 accidents / injuries annually 14 accident / injuriese Yes

Lost work-day cases 19 cases annuallyc8 casese Yes

Socioeconomics

Employment Up to 1931 persons annually 1076 personsd Yes

Operating budget $262 million/yr 252.6 millione Yes

a

 Annual emissions were calculated by multiplying the daily emissions reported in the BAAQMD Permit to Operate by 365. 

Emissions are based on 2009 data. 

b

 Data provided for the 2009/2010 and 2010/2011 permit periods. See Section 3.4.1 for more information. 

c Extrapolated from historical average. 

d

 Sandia employees only. Does not include contract staff. Data from November 2010. 

e

 Fiscal year data (October 1, 2009 – September 30, 2010). 

f

 Waste sent to the landfill; fiscal year data (October 1, 2009 – September 30, 2010). 

4.3.5 Pollution Prevention and Waste Minimization Program 

The Pollution Prevention and Waste Minimization Program promotes the elimination or 

reduction of all waste types generated at SNL/CA. Program staff work closely with other 

SNL/CA organizations to establish routine and project-specific recycling programs. The 

program provides guidance for resource and energy conservation and assists in identifying 

recycled-content products for use throughout the site. See Section 4.2 for recycling and waste 

minimization data. 

During 2010, SNL/CA Pollution Prevention staff worked with SNL/CA Property and 

SNL/CA Health and Safety staff in the cleanout of the Radiation Machine Shop. Several 

pieces of contaminated excess equipment tools (approximately 100,000 lbs) were shipped 

offsite in mid-June to a recycling vendor to be processed for reuse. This option saved 

SNL/CA approximately four million dollars in disposal costs. SNL/CA received an NNSA 

P2/Sustainability Environmental Stewardship Award in February 2011 for this effort. 

SNL/CA and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) jointly sponsored a 

Recycled Art Contest for Earth Day. The contest theme was “Creative Ways to Save the 

Earth”. Additionally, SNL/CA and LLNL jointly participated in the city of Livermore Earth 

Day Festival. The entries from the Recycled Art contest were displayed at the Festival. 

SNL/CA also attended LLNL’s Green Vendor Showcase. The vendors were displaying a 
59

variety of environmentally friendly products. Finally, SNL/CA Pollution Prevention staff 

hosted a Virtual Earth Day web page. The web page included information such as how to 

determine your carbon footprint and commuting costs. 

By encouraging the Sandia workforce to consider excess materials and chemicals as the first 

sources of supply, the Pollution Prevention Team successfully reapplied a number of items 

during 2010. Items included two fork-lifts and associated battery chargers, and a case of 

unused aerosol dusters. Successful reapplication resulted in avoiding hazardous, low-level 

radioactive, and solid waste generation. 

4.3.6 Waste Management Program 

The Waste Management Program manages hazardous, radioactive, and mixed wastes 

generated by SNL/CA operations. Program personnel collect waste from the point of 

generation and transfer waste to onsite waste storage facilities for storage, consolidation, 

commingling, and packaging. The Waste Management Program establishes and maintains 

several contracts for offsite reclamation, recycling, treatment, and disposal of wastes. Waste 

Management provides regulatory oversight in accordance with federal, state, and local 

regulations. The Program manages the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) 

and Tiered permit process, and implements RCRA and Tiered permit conditions. Program 

staff conduct process knowledge evaluations to characterize waste types generated from 

specific operations. The Waste Management Program also provides waste generator training 

to the Sandia workforce. 

In 2010, the Waste Management Program continued to coordinate chemical cleanout projects 

at the site. From March through May 2010, a substantial clean-out of old chemicals and 

biomaterials was completed by Waste Management staff in the Applied Biosciences 

Laboratory. The clean-out was a joint effort between Waste Management staff and laboratory 

personnel that helped to minimize old, unneeded chemicals and biomaterials in the inventory. 
60

5 Environmental Monitoring

Sandia National Laboratories, California (SNL/CA) monitors storm water, wastewater, 

groundwater, and gamma radiation. This chapter provides a summary of monitoring activities 

and results for each of these media. Both radiological and non-radiological data are 

presented. 

SNL/CA does not directly monitor airborne effluents. Non-radiological (chemical) emission 

sources do not require routine or continuous monitoring of ambient air quality 

concentrations. However, SNL/CA does maintain equipment and process usage records (e.g. 

hours of operation or quantity of solvents used) for emission sources. Similarly, there are no 

radionuclide emission sources that require routine monitoring. SNL/CA maintains an 

inventory of radioactive isotopes (small quantity sealed and unsealed sources), and operates 

several radiation generating devices. Emission monitoring is not required for these materials 

and devices. 

Typically, radiological emission data that would be obtained from radionuclide effluent 

monitoring is used to evaluate the potential effect that a particular site’s operations may have 

on local populations and the environment. Because there are no radionuclide emission 

sources and no monitoring data for site operations, calculations for maximum individual dose 

or collective population dose are not possible. As an alternative to these calculations, 

SNL/CA compares gamma radiation data collected at the site perimeter to offsite data. 

Results of this comparison are presented in Section 5.4. 

SNL/CA is not required to monitor biota or vegetation. The Department of Energy (DOE) 

RAD-BCG Calculator, a computer tool developed by DOE, is used each year to determine 

the need and level of monitoring required. The results from applying the tool in 2010 are 

presented in Section 5.4. 

5.1 Storm Water 

All storm water runoff from SNL/CA is conveyed to the Arroyo Seco, which discharges into 

Alameda Creek and eventually to the San Francisco Bay. Storm water that flows off 

buildings, material-handling areas, parking lots, and other impervious surfaces, may pick up 

pollutants, such as oil and grease, soil, litter, pesticides, and fertilizers. During heavy or 

continuing storms, runoff may transport pollutants to Arroyo Seco before the storm water has 

time to evaporate or infiltrate into the ground. 

To assess the impact of site operations to storm water discharges, SNL/CA collects samples 

of surface runoff at nine locations around the site. These locations, identified on Figure 5-1, 

were selected because they provide the best representation of drainage areas and activities 

onsite. Each of the nine locations is sampled twice each wet season, once each during two 
61

Figure 5-1 Storm Water Sampling Locations 

separate storm events, provided there is sufficient runoff. The wet season is from October 1 

through May 31. Because any one storm may 

not produce enough runoff to allow for sample 

collection at all nine locations, sampling during 

more than two storm events is generally 

required. 

One additional sampling location, Station N, is 

used to monitor erosion from the Navy Landfill, 

but is not sampled for the storm water program. 

In 2010 Sandia received approval from the 

Regional Water Quality Control Board to 

discontinue sampling at this location; 

consequently, the 2009/2010 wet season was 

the last sampling year at Station N. 

Analytical Parameters – Stormwater 

 Specific conductivity 

 pH

 Total suspended solids 

 Oil and grease 

 Cyanide 

 Metals 

 Chemical oxygen demand 

 Nitrite + nitrate 

 Ammonia 

 Tritium
62

Storm water discharges at SNL/CA are covered under the State of California NPDES 

General Permit for Storm Water Discharge Associated with Industrial Activities (General 

Permit) (California Water Resources Control Board 1997). The General Permit does not 

establish water quality standards for storm water discharges. Consequently, a comparison of 

analytical results with regulatory standards cannot be made. Instead, the analytical data 

obtained from monitoring storm water discharge is used to optimize storm water pollution 

prevention activities at SNL/CA. 

Analytical results of storm water sampling for the 2009/2010 wet season are presented in 

Table 5-1. The only pollutant that was detected in storm water runoff at a level to cause 

concern was the pH reading of 5.60. This reading is below the acceptable range specified in 

the Regional Water Quality Control Board's Basin Plan (6.5 to 8.5). SNL/CA undertook an 

aggressive housekeeping campaign in 2010, and subsequent storm water samples were within 

the range specified in the Basin Plan. The concentrations of other constituents detected in 

storm water are similar to those detected historically. 

Table 5-1 Summary of Analytical Results for Storm Water, 2009/2010 Wet Season 

Parameter Number of 

Samples 

Analyzed

Number Found 

Below 

Detection Limit

Detection Limit Minimum 

Concentration

Maximum 

Concentration

Total suspended solids 19 0 1 mg/L 4.8 mg/L 252 mg/L

Specific conductivity 19 0 10 mho/cm 15.4 mho/cm 1490 mho/cm 

pH 19 0 None 5.60a8.09

Oil and grease 19 19 5 mg/L <5 mg/L <5 mg/L

Chemical oxygen 

demand

19 3 10 mg/L <10 mg/L 170 mg/L

Cyanide 19 11 0.001 mg/L <0.001 mg/L 0.0038 mg/L

Tritium 19 19 530 - 740 pCi/L <530 pCi/L <740 pCi/L

Aluminum 19 0 0.05 mg/L 0.11 mg/L 5.1 mg/L

Arsenic 19 8 0.0005 mg/L <0.0005 mg/L 0.002 mg/L

Cadmium 19 10 0.00025 mg/L <0.00025 mg/L 0.00098 mg/L

Iron 19 0 0.02 mg/L 0.16 mg/L 7.1 mg/L

Lead 19 2 0.0005 mg/L <0.0005 mg/L 0.059 mg/L

Magnesium 19 0 0.02 mg/L 0.32 mg/L 49 mg/L

Mercury 19 3 0.000012 mg/L <0.000012 mg/L 0.00057 mg/L

Selenium 19 19 0.0005 mg/L <0.0005 mg/L <0.0005 mg/L

Silver 19 19 0.00019 mg/L <0.00019 mg/L <0.00019 mg/L

Zinc 19 1 0.005 mg/L <0.005 mg/L 0.64 mg/L

Ammonia-N 19 7 0.2 mg/L <0.2 mg/L 1.1 mg/L

Nitrite + nitrate 19 3 0.1 / 0.1 mg/L <0.1/<0.1 mg/L <0.1+19 mg/L

a

 Outside of Basin Plan range of 6.5 to 8.5. 

Annually, SNL/CA evaluates storm water pollution prevention practices at each drainage 

location as part of its monitoring activities. No practices that would cause a threat to the 

storm water were observed. 

During years of sufficient runoff, SNL/CA compares the analytical results from storm water 

entering the site to storm water exiting the site. For the 2009/2010 storm season, the sample 

collected at this location was similar to other samples collected on-site with the exception of 
63

magnesium. The storm water entering the site was considerably higher in magnesium than 

storm water collected on-site. 

5.2 Wastewater 

Wastewater effluent generated at SNL/CA consists of sanitary and laboratory discharges. 

Sanitary effluent is discharged directly to the sewer system. Sewer discharges exit the site 

through a sewer outfall located at the northern boundary, and join with the Lawrence 

Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) sewer system. Laboratory discharges are generated 

from general research activities, and from operations that qualify as categorical processes 

subject to Federal pretreatment standards. Laboratory effluent from most laboratory areas is 

diverted to liquid effluent control system (LECS) holding tanks prior to discharge to the 

sanitary sewer. SNL/CA monitors wastewater at the sewer outfall, LECS tanks, and at 

categorical process point sources. 

5.2.1 Sewer Outfall 

SNL/CA operates a sewer outfall and monitoring station at the northern site boundary to 

continuously monitor wastewater for flow and pH. Samples are also collected at the outfall to 

monitor compliance with wastewater discharge limits established in the site’s Wastewater 

Discharge Permit. The outfall sampling schedule and analytical parameters are presented in 

Table 5-2. Consistent with permit requirements, SNL/CA does not analyze wastewater 

samples collected at the sewer outfall for radioactive constituents. 

Table 5-2 Sewer Outfall Sampling Schedule, 2010 

Frequency Sample Type Analytical Parameter

Daily Composite Archive sample; analyzed only 

when weekly composite sample 

shows concentration greater than 

or equal to 50% of discharge 

limit for metals.

Weekly Composite Metals

Monthly Composite Total dissolved solids

Total suspended solids

Biochemical oxygen demand

Chemical oxygen demanda

Monthly Grab Cyanide

EPA priority organic pollutants

a Chemical oxygen demand analyses are not required by the Wastewater Discharge Permit. 

A summary of analytical results for physical parameters and metals from the SNL/CA 

sanitary sewer outfall is presented in Table 5-3. In 2010, all liquid effluent from the outfall 

complied with the site outfall discharge limits for regulated physical parameters and most 

metals. The site exceeded the discharge limit for copper on February 6 and 7, 2010. Not all 

exceedances are reflected in Table 5-3 because the table presents data for weekly composite 
64

samples. The exceedances were found in the daily samples collected on the dates above. 

Detailed information about the cause of these exceedances is presented in Section 3.15. 

Table 5-3 Weekly Composite Sewer Outfall Monitoring Results – Physical Parameters and 

Metals, 2010 

Parameter Number of 

Samples 

Analyzed

Quantity 

Found Below 

Detection 

Limit

Detection 

Limit

Sewer 

Discharge 

Limit

Minimum 

Concentration

Maximum 

Concentration

Total suspended 

solids

12 0 1 mg/L None 47 mg/L 832mg/L

Total dissolved 

solids

12 0 10 mg/L None 216 mg/L 667 mg/L

Biochemical 

oxygen demand

12 0 4 mg/L None 71 mg/L 550 mg/L

Chemical oxygen 

demanda

12 0 10 mg/L None 220 mg/L 1100 mg/L

Cyanide 12 0 0.001 mg/L 0.04 mg/L 0.0011 mg/L 0.024 mg/L

Arsenic 52 0 0.0005 mg/L 0.06 mg/L 0.00089 mg/L 0.0021 mg/L

Cadmium 52 2 0.00025 

mg/L

0.14 mg/L <0.00025 mg/L 0.0012 mg/L

Chromium 52 0 0.0005 mg/L 0.62 mg/L 0.0014 mg/L 0.087 mg/L

Copper 52 0 0.0005 mg/L 1 mg/L 0.14 mg/L 0.92 mg/L

Lead 52 0 0.0005 mg/L 0.2 mg/L 0.0011 mg/L 0.0.28 mg/L

Mercury 52 0 0.000012

mg/L

0.01 mg/L 0.000044 mg/L 0.00084 mg/L

Nickel 52 1 0.0005 mg/L 0.61 mg/L <0.0005 mg/L 0.011 mg/L

Silver 52 0 0.00019 mg/L 0.2 mg/L 0.00031 mg/L 0.0072 mg/L

Zinc 52 0 0.005 mg/L 3 mg/L 0.14 mg/L 0.91 mg/L

a Chemical oxygen demand analyses are not required by the Wastewater Discharge Permit. 

Sewer outfall samples are also analyzed for priority pollutants that are listed by the U.S. 

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as toxic organics. Because the list is lengthy, 

SNL/CA routinely reports only positively identified organic constituents. In 2010, sewer 

outfall samples showed concentrations of chloroform (1.3 – 7.7 μg/L), bromoform (0.51 –

8.5 μg/L), toluene (0.61 – 5.2 μg/L), bromodichloromethane (1.2 μg/L), and 1,1,1-

Trichloroethane (1.0 – 55 μg/L). All other constituents on the EPA toxic organic list were 

below minimum detection limits. The toxic organic discharge limit for the site is 1000 μg/L. 

In 2010, SNL/CA did not exceed this discharge limit. Detailed sewer analyses results are 

provided in Section 9. 

5.2.2 Liquid Effluent Control System 

Effluent from major laboratory facilities is diverted to LECS holding tanks where wastewater 

can be sampled and analyzed prior to release to the sewer system. SNL/CA operated five 

LECS during 2010. Wastewater from LECS tanks is typically analyzed for metals. Analyses 

for other parameters associated with the process generating the wastewater may also be done. 

Four of the five LECS tanks are also continuously monitored for pH. One LECS tank that is 
65

used infrequently is monitored prior to discharge for tritium and uranium. The tank did not 

require discharge in 2010; consequently, analyses for radioactive constituents were not 

necessary. 

Wastewater that does not meet the discharge limits at the sewer outfall is transferred to 

Waste Management for disposal. Depending on the constituents of the wastewater, it may be 

disposed as hazardous or non-hazardous waste. In 2010, SNL/CA did not dispose of any 

wastewater through Sandia’s Waste Management Program. 

5.2.3 Categorical Processes 

Three research operations at SNL/CA are defined as federal categorical processes subject to 

the EPA’s pretreatment standards for point sources (40 CFR Part 403, 40 CFR Part 433). 

These categorical processes include two metal finishing operations and a semiconductor 

manufacturing operation. Wastewater from the semiconductor manufacturing operation is 

sampled semiannually. The two metal finishing operations are closed-loop systems that do 

not discharge effluent to the sanitary sewer, and, therefore, wastewater monitoring is not 

required. There is an additional laboratory that may infrequently use metal cyanide 

complexes for electroplating, but this is done on a very small scale (less than 50 mL), and all 

liquid waste is handled as hazardous waste. There is no discharge from this process. 

Samples collected from the semiconductor manufacturing operation are analyzed for pH, 

arsenic, and toxic organic pollutants. Table 5-4 presents a summary of semiannual 

monitoring results for the semiconductor manufacturing operation. In 2010, all wastewater 

from this operation met the pretreatment standards. 

Table 5-4 Monitoring for Semiconductor Manufacturing Categorical Process, 2010 

Parameter Number 

of 

Samples 

Analyzed

Number 

Found 

Below 

Detection 

Limit

Detection 

Limit

Minimum 

Concentration

Maximum 

Concentration

Permit 

Limit a

pH 2 -- None 7.32 7.47 5-10

Arsenic 2 2 0.0005 

mg/L

<0.0005 mg/L <0.0005 mg/L 2.09 mg/L 

Total toxic 

organics 

2 -- Rangeb All below 

detection limit

All below 

detection limit

1.37 

mg/Lc

a Permit limit for site outfall. 

b Detection limits for the various organics included in this value range from 0.005 to 0.130 mg/L. 

c

 The limit for total organics is a daily maximum concentration.

5.3 Groundwater 

SNL/CA has seven groundwater monitoring wells. Sandia monitors groundwater at two 

former restoration areas and along Arroyo Seco. Three groundwater monitoring wells are 
66

used to monitor residual contamination at former restoration areas under a 1989 site clean-up 

order issued by the Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region 

(RWQCB). Two of these wells are located at the Fuel Oil Spill site, and one at the Navy 

Landfill. Four monitoring wells are located along Arroyo Seco to monitor the effect of site 

operations on groundwater quality. Well AS-4 is located up gradient of the developed area of 

the site and provides background data about local groundwater quality. Groundwater 

monitoring well locations are shown on Figure 5-2. MW-406, an LLNL well, is also shown 

on Figure 5-2. SNL/CA discontinued monitoring at this location in 2005, but continues to 

report the results of LLNL’s monitoring efforts that occur every two years. Table 5-5 

provides the sampling schedule for each SNL/CA well location. 

Figure 5-2 Groundwater Monitoring Well Locations 
67

Table 5-5 Groundwater Sampling Schedule, 2010 

Well location Sampling frequency Analytical parameter

Fuel Oil Spill site

(Wells FM-1, FM-7)

Semi-annually Total petroleum hydrocarbons dieselmethane (TPHD) (8015); water 

elevation

Navy Landfill

(Well NLF-6)

Annually Volatile halogenated organics (EPA 

601); water elevation

Arroyo Seco

(Wells AS-3A, AS-3B, AS-3C, and 

AS-4)

Annually Metals, volatile halogenated organics 

(EPA 601), total petroleum 

hydrocarbons-diesel (8015), tritium, 

water elevation

Arroyo Seco

(Wells AS-3A, AS-3B, AS-3C, and 

AS-4)

Every two years General minerals

Table 5-6 presents a summary of groundwater analytical results for the Navy Landfill. 

Groundwater analytical results for Arroyo Seco wells are summarized in Table 5-7. All wells 

at the Fuel Oil Spill had insufficient water for sampling during 2010; consequently, no 

samples were collected5

. LLNL sampled MW-406 in December 2009. The only constituent 

of interest detected was tetrachloroethene at 2 g/L. Complete groundwater analytical results 

are provided in Chapter 9. As a point of reference, analytical results are compared to federal 

and state maximum contaminant levels (MCLs), which are applicable for drinking water 

sources. There are no wells at SNL/CA used as a source for drinking water and MCLs are not 

standards applied to groundwater at the site. 

As in past years, SNL/CA continued to detect carbon tetrachloride at the Navy Landfill well 

(NLF-6) in 2010. The concentration was above the state MCL of 0.5 g/L, but below the 

federal MCL of 5.0 g/L. The result is similar to that detected in past years. 

Table 5-6 Summary of Groundwater Analyses at Navy Landfill, 2010

Date Trichloromethanea

(chloroform) g/L

Carbon 

Tetrachloridea g/L

Tetrachloroethenea

(PCE) g/L

Detection limit 0.5 0.5 0.5

MCL – California 0.5 5

MCL – Federal 100 5 5

Navy Landfill

 NLF-6 4/14/10 0.71 1.2 ND

a All other EPA 601 parameters were non-detectable. 

MCL – Maximum contaminant levels. 

 

5

 The wells at the FOS have been dry eight consecutive years. 
68

Table 5-7 Summary of Groundwater Analyses at Arroyo Seco Wells, 2010

CCR Metalsa

DateEPA 601Diesel (8015) g/LAntimony mg/LArsenic mg/LBarium mg/LChromium mg/LCopper mgl/LLead mg/LMercury mg/LMolybdenum mg/LNickel mg/LVanadium mg/LZinc mg/LTritium pCi/L

Detection 

limit

50 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.05 0.1 2 0.02 2 0.1 500

MCL -

California

1 1 0.05

MCL –

Federal

2

AS-3A dry - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

AS-3B 4/14/10 ND ND 0.00063 0.00086 0.13 0.0093 0.0011 0.0011 0.000094 0.0033 0.00051 0.0027 0.0088 <500

AS-3C 4/14/10 ND ND 0.0013 ND 0.14 0.0057 ND ND 0.0002 0.0049 ND 0.00082 ND <500

AS-4 4/14/10 ND ND ND 0.0015 0.063 ND ND ND ND 0.0032 0.00099 0.0031 ND <500

a

 All other California Code of Regulations (CCR) parameters were non-detectable. 

MCL – Maximum contaminant levels. 

ND – Non-detectable.
69

5.4 Biological Dose Assessment 

To meet the requirements of DOE Order 450.1A and 5400.5, SNL/CA conducts a biological 

dose assessment each year using the graded approach presented in DOE Standard 1153-2002 

A Graded Approach for Evaluating Radiation Doses to Aquatic and Terrestrial Biota (DOE 

2002). The technical standard includes models for calculating doses from radionuclide 

concentration data obtained from sediment and water analyses. In 2010, the RAD-BCG 

Calculator, a computer tool developed by DOE, was used to calculate doses and determine 

the need for and level of monitoring required. 

The first step in the graded approach is a general screening that compares concentrations of 

radionuclides in environmental media with derived concentration guides. The ratios of the 

concentrations to the concentration guides are then summed. If the total equals or exceeds 

one, then additional analyses are required. 

The radionuclides handled in greatest quantity at SNL/CA during past or present operations 

are tritium and depleted uranium. Typically, SNL/CA uses tritium data from storm water 

sampling in the RAD-BCG Calculator. However, because tritium was not detected above 

analytical detection limits in storm water samples collected in 2010, the detection limit value 

was used. The sum of fractions from storm water data totaled 2.72 x 10-9. This small fraction 

indicates that further analysis is not required and that SNL/CA is not required to monitor 

aquatic or terrestrial biota. 

5.5 Radiation Monitoring 

SNL/CA monitors gamma radiation to ensure that site operations are not contributing 

significantly to the ambient radiation dose in the surrounding environment. Onsite sources 

that could contribute to gamma radiation include small, unsealed radioactive isotopes, sealed 

sources, and several radiation generating devices. SNL/CA maintains four onsite monitoring 

stations equipped with thermoluminescent dosimeters. Monitoring stations are shown on 

Figure 5-3. The dosimeters are collected and evaluated quarterly. The data obtained from 

Sandia monitoring stations is combined with that from LLNL monitoring stations located 

around the perimeter of the Sandia site to determine the average annual gamma radiation 

dose at the site perimeter. The combined dose is then compared to the average annual gamma 

radiation dose at more distant locations in the Livermore Valley, shown on Figure 5-4. If site 

operations were contributing significantly to the gamma radiation dose, the dosimeters at the 

site perimeter would show a higher dose than those at more distant locations. 

In 2010, the average annual perimeter dose was 58.8 mrem (0.588 mSv). The average annual 

dose measurement for distant locations was 54.8 mrem (0.548 mSv). The 2010 data for both 

perimeter and distant locations are within the range measured over the last fifteen years. 

Since 1995, the average annual dose at the SNL/CA perimeter ranged from 54.3 mrem to 68 

mrem. Over this same period, the average annual dose measured at distant locations ranged 

from 53.4 mrem to 73 mrem. 
70

The difference between the perimeter and distant location measurements for 2010 is not 

statistically significant. SNL/CA does not appear to be a contributor to gamma radiation dose 

in the surrounding environment. 

Figure 5-3 Dosimeter Locations at SNL/CA and Around Site Perimeter 
71

Figure 5-4 Dosimeter Locations in Livermore Valley 

LLNL Dosimeter 

Locations
72

6 Quality Assurance

Sandia National Laboratories, California (SNL/CA) follows the Sandia Corporate Quality 

Assurance Program defined in Corporate Procedure: CG100.5.1 (SNL 2010). Compliance 

with the corporate Quality Assurance Program satisfies the requirements established in the 

Department of Energy (DOE) Nuclear 

Safety Management Regulations, 

Subpart A, Quality Assurance 

Requirements (10 CFR 830), and DOE 

Order 414.1C, Quality Assurance (DOE 

2005). The Environmental Management 

Department maintains a Quality 

Assurance Project Plan that describes 

the general quality requirements for 

SNL/CA environmental programs. 

Program-specific quality requirements 

are presented in annual program reports 

and implemented through operating 

procedures. 

6.1 Environmental 

Monitoring Quality Assurance 

The Environmental Monitoring Program ensures quality in its activities through 

implementation of quality assurance plans and procedures. A program-specific quality 

assurance project plan (QAPP) addresses each of the ten criteria listed above, and documents 

quality assurance activities performed for the program (SNL/CA 2005). The SNL/CA

Environmental Monitoring Annual Program Report provides a detailed description of the 

monitoring and surveillance activities conducted at SNL/CA (SNL/CA 2010a). Additional 

program operating procedures specify training requirements, establish work processes, define 

data verification and validation processes, and identify reporting and records management 

requirements. The operating procedures are reviewed by subject matter experts and approved 

by the Environmental Management Department Manager. 

6.2 Environmental Sampling 

Protocols for environmental sampling at SNL/CA are contained in activity specific operating 

procedures. Elements of these protocols include appropriate sampling methods and 

equipment; sampling frequency; sampling locations; and sample handling, storage, and 

packaging. Implementation of established protocols ensures that samples are representative 

of the environmental medium monitored and that monitoring requirements outlined in 

permits, DOE orders, and regulations are met. Chain-of-custody protocols are also used to 

ensure quality control through proper transfer of samples from the point of collection to the 

analytical laboratory. 

DOE Order 414.1C identifies ten criteria that are 

integral to a quality program: 

 Quality assurance program 

 Personnel training and qualification 

 Quality improvement process 

 Documents and records 

 Established work processes 

 Established standards for design and verification 

 Established procurement requirements 

 Inspection and acceptance testing 

 Management assessment 

 Independent assessment
73

6.3 Sample Analyses 

Analyses of samples collected at SNL/CA are performed using one of three avenues, 

depending on the sample medium or constituent analyzed. The three avenues are: a State 

accredited laboratory; the SNL/CA Health Protection Laboratory; or the Sandia National 

Laboratories, New Mexico (SNL/NM) Health Instrumentation Laboratory. 

6.3.1 Accredited Laboratory 

A State of California accredited laboratory performs analyses of non-radiological samples 

collected at SNL/CA. To receive accreditation, a laboratory must implement a quality 

assurance plan. These laboratories are periodically inspected by the California Environmental 

Protection Agency to ensure that they are operating within regulatory and quality assurance 

requirements. Consistent with industry standards, non-radiological samples are processed 

according to federal Environmental Protection Agency methods. 

6.3.2 SNL/CA Health Physics Laboratory 

Tritium analyses of storm water are performed by the SNL/CA Health Protection Department 

in an onsite laboratory. These samples are analyzed by liquid scintillation counting, a 

standard technique for tritium analysis. The Health Physics Laboratory follows the guidance 

in the Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) Radiation Protection Department Quality 

Assurance Plan (SNL 2009), and meets the Sandia and DOE quality criteria. 

6.3.3 SNL/NM Health Instrumentation Laboratory 

Thermoluminescent dosimeters used to collect gamma radiation measurements are processed 

by the Health Instrumentation Department at SNL/NM following established protocols and 

quality assurance/quality control requirements under the SNL Radiation Protection 

Department Quality Assurance Plan (SNL 2009). Automated equipment is used to process 

the samples and analyze the resulting data. 

6.4 Data Verification and Validation 

SNL/CA conducts data verification and validation to ensure that environmental data is 

precise, accurate, representative, comparable, and complete. Verification and validation are 

accomplished through analyses of quality control samples and by conducting statistical 

analyses. 

6.4.1 Quality Control Samples 

Types of quality control samples prepared for the Environmental Monitoring Program 

include duplicate, spiked, and blank samples. A definition of each sample type follows. 

Duplicate samples are collected at the same time and location, and follow the same 

method, as a routine sample. These samples are used to assess the precision of sample 

collection and analytical processes. 
74

Spiked samples resemble a routine sample, but contain a known amount of one or more of 

the constituents of interest. These samples are obtained from an independent 

laboratory that certifies the concentration of the constituents. 

Blank samples resemble a routine sample matrix (e.g. deionized water is used for blank 

water samples), but lack the constituents of interest. These samples are used to assess 

background levels of constituents, and possible contamination of the samples in the 

laboratory or in the field. 

SNL/CA’s goal for number of quality control samples is 20 percent of the total sample load, 

where feasible. This includes quality control samples initiated at the laboratory. In 2010,

SNL/CA collected fourteen wastewater quality control samples representing 27 percent of 

the sample load. Two groundwater quality control samples were collected representing 50 

percent of the sample load. Four storm water quality control samples were collected during 

the 2009/2010 wet season, representing 21 percent of the sample load. 

6.4.2 Statistical Analyses 

Statistical analyses are used to determine completeness, precision, and accuracy of 

monitoring and surveillance data. Prior to performing statistical analyses, the data is 

normalized to ensure that valid results are obtained. Descriptions of the statistical tests 

follow. 

Completeness is evaluated by determining the ratio between the number of samples collected 

and the number of samples scheduled for collection. The data quality objective for 

completeness is 85 percent. 

Precision is evaluated using three methods: determining the ratio between routine and 

duplicate samples; tests of significant difference; and calculating the 95 percent confidence 

interval. Data quality objectives vary for precision depending on the results of laboratory 

analyses. 

Accuracy is also evaluated using three methods: determining the ratio between sample results 

and known values of spiked samples; tests of significant difference; and calculating the 95 

percent confidence interval. Data quality objectives vary for accuracy depending on the 

results of laboratory analyses. 
75

Table 6.1 summarizes the results of statistical analyses conducted in 2010. As shown, three 

data quality objectives failed during the year. The failed sewer accuracy tests were mercury, 

chemical oxygen demand, and zinc samples. The laboratory was unable to determine the 

reason for the discrepancy in results; consequently, similar accuracy tests will be performed 

in 2011. The two failed sewer precision tests were biochemical oxygen demand and total 

suspended solids, both of which are very sensitive to the heterogeneity of the sample stream. 

This is believed to be the source of the discrepancy. 

Table 6-1 Summary of Statistical Analyses, 2010

Sample Medium Completeness Test Precision Test Accuracy Test

Results # of Tests Results # of Tests Results

Wastewater (sanitary 

sewer)

100% 6 4 passed 26 23 passed

Storm water 95% 11 All passed -- --

Groundwater 44%a1 Passed -- --

aThe low percentage of samples collected was due to an unusually dry year, not a failure of the sampling system. A 

nonconformance report was not required. 

 

 
76

7 References

22 California Code of Regulations (CCR), Division 4.5, Environmental Health Standard for 

Management of Hazardous Waste. 

10 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 830, Department of Energy, Nuclear Safety 

Management, Subpart A, Quality Assurance Requirements, Federal Register Vol. 66, 

Number 7. 

10 CFR Part 1021, Department of Energy, National Environmental Policy Act Implementing 

Procedures. 

40 CFR Part 61, Environmental Protection Agency, National Emissions Standards for 

Hazardous Air Pollutants, Subpart H – National Emissions Standards for Emissions 

of Radionuclides Other Than Radon From Department of Energy Facilities. 

40 CFR Part 70, Environmental Protection Agency, State Operating Permit Programs. 

40 CFR Part 82, Environmental Protection Agency, Protection of Stratospheric Ozone. 

40 CFR Part 262.41, Environmental Protection Agency, Standards Applicable to Generators 

of Hazardous Waste, Subpart D, Record-keeping and Reporting. 

40 CFR Part 403, Environmental Protection Agency, General Pretreatment Regulations for 

Existing and New Sources of Pollution. 

40 CFR Part 433, Environmental Protection Agency, Metal Finishing Point Source Category. 

7 United States Code (USC) §136, Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, 

1972.

15 USC §2601 et. seq., Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976. 

16 USC § 470, National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. 

16 USC § 703 et. seq., Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. 

16 USC §1531 et. seq., Endangered Species Act of 1973. 

33 USC §1251, Clean Water Act of 1977. 

42 USC § 2011 et. seq., Atomic Energy Act of 1954. 

42 USC § 4321 et. seq., National Environmental Policy Act of 1970. 

42 USC § 6901 et. seq., Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976. 
77

42 USC § 6961, Federal Facility Compliance Act of 1992. 

42 USC § 7401, Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990. 

42 USC § 9601, Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act 

of 1980.

42 USC §11001 et. seq., Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986, 

Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act. 

42 USC §13101 et. seq., Pollution Prevention Act of 1990. 

Assembly Bill 2185, California Hazardous Materials Release Response Plans and Inventory 

Law, 1987. 

California Health and Safety Code, Division 20, Chapter 6.5, § 25100 et. seq., Hazardous 

Waste Control Law. 

California Health and Safety Code, Division 20, Chapter 6.7, §§ 25280-25299.8, 

Underground Storage of Hazardous Substances. 

California Health and Safety Code, Division 20, Chapter 6.95, § 25500, et. Seq., Hazardous 

Materials Release Response Plans and Inventory. 

California Health and Safety Code, Division 104, Part 14, §§ 117600-118360, Medical Waste 

Management Act. 

California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region (California 

RWQCB) 1989, Order No. 89-184, Revision of Site Cleanup Order, Sandia 

Corporation and U.S. Department of Energy, Livermore, December 1989. 

California Water Resources Control Board 1997, State of California, NPDES General Permit 

for Storm Water Discharge Associated with Industrial Activities, April 1997. 

Department of Energy (DOE) 1986, Comprehensive Environmental Assessment and 

Response Program, Phase I: Installation Assessment, Sandia National Laboratories, 

Livermore, September, 1986. 

DOE 1993, DOE Order 5400.5, change 2, Radiation Protection of the Public and the 

Environment, January 7, 1993. 

DOE 2001, DOE Order 435.1, change 1, Radioactive Waste Management, August 28, 2001. 

DOE 2002, DOE Standard 1153-2002, A Graded Approach for Evaluating Radiation Doses 

to Aquatic and Terrestrial Biota, July 2002. 

DOE 2003a, Final Site-wide Environmental Assessment of the Sandia National 

Laboratories/California, DOE/EA-1422, January 2003. 
78

DOE 2003b, Site Wide Environmental Assessment for SNL/CA, Finding of No Significant 

Impact, March 20, 2003. 

DOE 2004a, DOE Order 231.1A, change 1, Environment, Safety, and Health Reporting, June 

3, 2004.

DOE 2005, DOE Order 414.1C, Quality Assurance, June 17, 2005. 

DOE 2008a, DOE Order 430.2B, Departmental Energy, Renewable Energy and 

Transportation Management, February 27, 2008. 

DOE 2008b, DOE Order 450.1A, Environmental Protection Program, June 4, 2008. 

Executive Order (EO) 11988, Floodplain Management, Federal Register, Vol. 42, pp. 26951, 

May 25, 1977. 

EO 11990, Protection of Wetlands, Federal Register, Vol. 42, pp. 26961, May 25, 1977. 

EO 13423, Strengthening Federal Environmental, Energy, and Transportation Management, 

January 24, 2007. 

EO 13514, Federal Leadership in Environmental, Energy, and Economic Performance, 

October 5, 2009. 

International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 14001, Environmental Management 

Systems – Requirements with guidance for use, Second edition, November 15, 2004. 

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) 2011, Simple Weather Report Tool, 

http://www-metdat.llnl.gov/cgi-pub/reports/simple_report.pl, January 3, 2011. 

Matthews, Graham & Associates (Matthews) 2002, Management Plan for Arroyo Seco at 

Sandia National Labs, Livermore, CA, April 2002. 

Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) 2002, Historic Building Survey, Sandia National 

Laboratories/California, October 30, 2002. 

SNL 2009, Radiation Protection Department Quality Assurance Plan, RPA-01-01, Issue 3, 

September 10, 2009. 

SNL 2010, Corporate Procedure: CG100.5.1 Define and Maintain the Corporate Quality 

Assurance Program, February 1, 2010. 

SNL 2011, Corporate Process: ESH100.2 Analyze and Control Hazards, January 4, 2011. 

SNL California (SNL/CA) 2002, Sandia National Laboratories, California Environmental 

Information Document, SAND 2002-8053, March 2002. 

SNL/CA 2005, Quality Assurance Project Plan for Environmental Monitoring Program, 

SAND 2005-6051, September 20, 2005. 
79

SNL/CA 2009a, Standard Operating Procedure SP471911, Handling and Storage of 

Pesticides, June 23, 2009. 

SNL/CA 2009b, Administrative Procedure for Conducting National Environmental Policy 

Act Reviews of Proposed Projects at Sandia National Laboratories, California, 

OP471343, Issue K, December 21, 2009. 

SNL/CA 2010a, Sandia National Laboratories, California Environmental Monitoring 

Program Annual Report, SAND 2010-0967P, February 2010. 

SNL/CA 2010b, Operating Procedure 471741, Storm Drain Spill Prevention and Control, 

Issue F, September 17, 2010. 

SNL/CA 2010c, 2010 Annual Environmental Preferable Purchasing Report, December 1, 

2010.

SNL/CA 2010d, 2010 Annual Report on Waste Generation and Pollution Prevention 

Progress, December 1, 2010.

Senate Bill 14, California Hazardous Waste Source Reduction and Management Review Act 

of 1989.

United States District Court for the District of Columbia (US District Court) 2002, Case 

Number 01-1291 (RJL), Home Builders Associations of Northern California, et al., 

Plaintiffs, and El Dorado County, California, Intervenor-Plaintiff, v. Gale A. Norton, 

Secretary of the Department of Interior, et. al., Defendants, and Jumping Frog 

Research Institute, et al., Intervenor-Defendants, November 6, 2002. 

US District Court, Northern District of California 2006, Case Number 02-1580-JSW (JL), 

Stipulated Injunction and Order, Center for Biological Diversity, Plaintiff, v. Stephen 

L. Johnson, Administrator, Environmental Protection Agency, and Wayne Nastri, 

Region 9 Administrator, Environmental Protection Agency, Defendants, and Croplife 

America, American Forest & Paper Association, Western Plant Health Association, 

Oregonians for Food and Shelter, and Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc., DefendantsIntervenors, October 17, 2006. 

United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) 2004, Proposed Rule, Endangered and 

Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Proposed Designation of Critical habitat for the 

California Red-legged Frog (Rana aurora draytonii), Federal Register, April 13, 2004 

(Volume 69, Number 71). 

USFWS 2005, Proposed Rule, Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants: Revised 

Proposed Designation of Critical Habitat for the California Red-Legged Frog (Rana 

aurora draytonii), Federal Register, November 3, 2005 (Volume 70, Number 212). 
80

USFWS 2006, Final Rule, Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Designation of 

Critical Habitat for the California Red-Legged Frog, and Special Rule Exemption 

Associated with Final Listing for Existing Routine Ranching Activities, Federal 

Register, April 13, 2006 (Volume 71, Number 71). 
81

8 Glossary

Ambient air The surrounding atmosphere, usually the outside air, as it exists 

around people, plants, and structures. It does not include the air next 

to emission sources.

Biochemical 

oxygen demand

A measure of the amount of dissolved oxygen that microorganisms 

need to break down organic matter in water. Used as an indicator of 

water quality. 

Categorical process An industrial process that discharges wastewater and is regulated 

under 40 CFR, Part 403.

Chemical oxygen 

demand

The amount of oxygen required to degrade the organic compounds of 

wastewater. Used to measure the overall level of organic 

contamination in wastewater. 

Dose A term denoting the quantity of radiation energy absorbed.

Dosimeter A portable detection device for measuring the total accumulated 

exposure to ionizing radiation.

Effluent A liquid or gaseous waste discharged to the environment.

Emission A gaseous or liquid stream containing one or more contaminants. 

Ephemeral stream A stream that flows only for a short duration during and following 

rainfall.

External radiation Radiation originating from a source outside the body.

Fluvial sediments A sedimentary deposit consisting of material transported by, 

suspended in, or laid down by a river or stream.

Lacustrine 

sediments

Sediments formed in, or relating to, a lake.

Mixed waste Waste that contains both radioactive and hazardous constituents.

pH A measure of hydrogen ion concentration in an aqueous solution. 

Acidic solutions have a pH less than 7, basic solutions have a pH 

greater than 7, and neutral solutions have a pH of 7.

Riparian Pertaining to, situated in, or adapted to living on the banks of rivers 

and streams.
82

Specific 

conductivity

Measure of the ability of a material to conduct electricity.

Strike-slip fault A fault with horizontal movement along the break where slipping is 

parallel with the strike of the fault.

Thermoluminescent 

dosimeter

A type of dosimeter. After being exposed to radiation, the material in 

the dosimeter (lithium fluoride) luminesces upon being heated. The 

amount of light the material emits is proportional to the amount of 

radiation (dose) to which it was exposed. 

Total dissolved 

solids

Solids in water that pass through a filter. A measure of the amount of 

material dissolved in water.

Total suspended 

solids

Solids in water that can be trapped in a filter. Solids can include silt, 

decaying plant and animal matter, industrial wastes, and sewage.

Transverse fault A fault that strikes obliquely or perpendicular to the general structural 

trend of the region.
83

9 Groundwater Analytical Results, Well 

Completion Data, and Sanitary Sewer 

Analytical Results
84

Table 9-1 Results of Groundwater Analyses at SNL/CA, 2010 

MCL – Maximum contaminant level. a Field duplicate sample. 

ND – Non-detectable. b Field blank sample. 

-- Not required to analyze or sample not collected. c Well was dry during 2010. 

Date

Dichlorodifluoromethaneg/LChloromethane g/LVinyl Chloride g/LBromomethane 

g/L

Chloroethane

g/L

Trichlorofluoromethane

g/L

Methylene Chloride g/LTrans-1,2-Dichloroethene g/L1,1 Dichloroethane 

g/L

Trichloromethane (chloroform) g/L1,1,1-Trichloroethane g/LCarbon Tetrachloride g/L1,2 Dichloroethane g/LTrichloroethene 

g/L

1,2-Dichloropropane g/L

Detection 

limit 2.0 0.5 1.0 1.0 0.5 0.5 2.0 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5

MCL -

California 0.5 150 10 5 200 0.5 0.5 5 5

MCL -

Federal 2 5 100 100 200 5 5 5 5

Well ID

NLF-6 4/4/10 ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 1.2 ND ND ND

4/4/10a ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 1.2 ND ND ND

4/4/10b ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND

AS-3A c-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

AS-3B 4/4/10 ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND

AS-3C 4/4/10 ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND

FM-1

c

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

FM-7

c

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

AS-4 4/4/10 ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND

Trip Blank 4/4/10 ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND
85

Table 9-1 Results of Groundwater Analyses at SNL/CA, 2010 (continued) 

MCL – Maximum contaminant level. a Field duplicate sample. 

ND – Non-detectable. b Field blank sample. 

-- Not required to analyze or sample not collected. c Well was dry during 2010. 

Date

Bromodichloromethane g/LCis-1,3-Dichloropropene g/LTrans-1,3-Dichloropropene g/L1,1,2-Trichloroethane g/LTetrachloroethene g/LDibromochloromethane g/LChlorobenzene g/LBromoform g/L1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethaneg/L1,3-Dichlorobenzene g/L1,4-Dichlorobenzene g/L1,2-Dichlorobenzene g/L8015-Diesel (w/silica gel clean-up) g/L

Detection 

limit 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 50

MCL -

California 0.5 32 5 30 1 5

MCL -

Federal 100 5 5 100 100 100 600 75 600

Well ID

NLF-6 4/4/10 ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND --

4/4/10a ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND --

4/4/10b ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND --

AS-3A -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

AS-3B 4/4/10 ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND

AS-3C 4/4/10 ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND

FM-1

c

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

FM-7

c

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

AS-4 4/4/10 ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND

Trip Blank 4/4/10 ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND --
86

Table 9-1 Results of Groundwater Analyses at SNL/CA, 2010 (continued) 

MCL – Maximum contaminant level. a Field duplicate sample. 

ND – Non-detectable. b Field blank sample. 

-- Not required to analyze or sample not collected. c Well was dry during 2010. 

Date

Antimony 

mg/L

Arsenicmg/LBariummg/LBerylliummg/LCadmiummg/LChromiummg/LCobaltmg/LCoppermg/LLeadmg/LMercurymg/LMolybdenummg/LNickelmg/LSeleniummg/LSilvermg/LThalliummg/LVanadiummg/LZincmg/LTritiumpCi/L

Detection 

limit 0.0005 0.0005 0.005 0.0005 0.00025 0.0005 0.0005 0.0005 0.0005 0.000012 0.0005 0.0005 0.0005 0.00019 0.0005 0.0005 0.005 210

MCL -

California 0.01 1 0.01 0.05 1

d

0.05 0.002 0.01 0.05 5

d

20000

MCL -

Federal 0.006 0.01 2 0.004 0.005 0.1 1

d

0.002 0.1 0.05 0.1 d0.002 5

d

Well ID

NLF-6 4/4/10 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

4/4/10a

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

4/4/10b

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

AS-3A -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

AS-3B 4/4/10 0.00063 0.00086 0.13 ND ND 0.0093 ND 0.0011 0.0011 0.000094 0.0033 0.00051 0.00061 ND ND 0.0027 0.0088 ND

AS-3C 4/4/10 0.0013 ND 0.14 ND ND 0.0057 ND ND ND 0.00020 0.0049 ND 0.0013 ND ND 0.00082 ND ND

FM-1

c

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

FM-7

c

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

AS-4 4/4/10 ND 0.0015 0.063 ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.0032 0.00099 ND ND ND 0.0031 ND ND
87

Table 9-2 Well Depth and Screen Period Interval 

Area Well ID Well Depth (ft) Screen Period Interval (ft) 

Fuel Oil Spill Site FM-1 106.1 90 – 105

FM-7 108.56 96 – 106

Arroyo Seco AS-3A 112.58 100 – 110

AS-3B 124.97 118 – 123

AS-3C 157 150 – 155

AS-4 28.57 15 – 25

Trudell Auto Repair Shop MW-406 94 87a

Navy Landfill NLF-6 110 87 – 102

a

 Start of screen interval. Length of screen interval is unknown. 
88

Table 9-3 Routine Monitoring Results for SNL/CA Sanitary Sewer Outfall, 2010 

BOD

c 

SM5210B

COD

c

(mg/L)

E410.4

TDS

c

( mg/L)

SM2540C

TSS

c

(mg/L)

SM2540D

Oil & 

Grease

(mg/L)

d

Cyanide

d

(mg/L)

Kelada-01

Date

Laboratory

ID #a All results reported in mg/L

January

January 5 1001035 410 1100 667 832 f 0.0011

February

February 2 1002041 71 220 645 47 f 0.0088

March

March 2 1003052 290 700 320 308 f 0.012

April

April 6 1004160 180 320 222 446 f 0.015

May

May 4 1005061 290 750 271 678 f 0.017

June

June 1 1006026 230 680 257 230 f 0.017

July

July 6 1007122 260 620 289 264 f

0.017

August

August 3 1008062 250 350 216 558 f

0.015

September

September 7 1009146 190 400 311 290 f

0.016

October

October 5 1010098 260 430 298 198 f

0.024

November

November 2 1011070 390 740 239 440 f

0.021

December*

December 7 1012227 550 500 359 736 f

0.018

Discharge 

Limit

b

N/A

e

N/A

e

N/A

e

N/A

e

100 0.04

* Site shutdown from December 24, 2010 through January 2, 2011. 

aAnalyses performed by an off-site, state certified laboratory. 

bDischarge concentration limits, City of Livermore Municipal Code 13.32. 

cWeekly composite sample. The dates indicate the day the sample was collected. The sample represents a representative 

composite for the previous week. 

dGrab sample. 

eN/A indicates not applicable; i.e., there is no specific discharge limit for this parameter. 

fThe monitoring requirement for oil and grease has been suspended until such time as the City of Livermore Municipal Code 

13.32 can be modified to remove references regarding specific analytical methods effective May 3, 1999.
89

Table 9-4 Routine Monitoring Results for SNL/CA Sanitary Sewer Outfall, 2010 (Method E200.8) 

As Cd Cr Cu Pb Hg Ni Ag Zn

Datea

Laboratory ID #

b All results reported in mg/L

January

January 5 1001035-001A 0.0013 0.00033 0.0044 0.30 0.0027 0.000066 0.0032 0.0012 0.19

January 12 1001206-001A 0.0018 0.00048 0.0091 0.30 0.0050 0.00010 0.0047 0.00088 0.37

January 19 1001324-001A 0.0014 0.00035 0.0098 0.32 0.0029 0.000075 0.0035 0.00079 0.23

January 26 1001581-001A 0.0011 0.00030 0.0052 0.19 0.0019 0.00012 0.0034 0.00077 0.19

February

February 2 1002041-001A 0.00093 <0.00025 0.0034 0.15 0.0011 0.000044 0.0031 0.00061 0.14

February 9 1002207-001A 0.0015 0.00068 0.011 0.34d0.0043 0.00084 0.0071 0.0024 0.54

February 16 1002382-001A 0.00099 0.00036 0.0041 0.26 0.0033 0.000084 0.0051 0.00072 0.32

February 23 1002570-001A 0.00089 <0.00025 0.0018 0.15 0.0012 0.000059 0.0037 0.00031 0.15

March 

March 2 1003052-001A 0.0010 <0.00025 0.0035 0.15 0.0018 0.000059 0.0029 0.00032 0.16

March 9 1003260-001A 0.0014 0.00055 0.0050 0.32 0.0042 0.00014 0.0058 0.0012 0.40

March 16 1003468-001A 0.0018 0.00068 0.0065 0.51e0.0050 0.00022 0.0072 0.0012 0.50

March 23 1003634-001A 0.0016 0.00069 0.0055 0.39 0.0056 0.00018 0.0061 0.0013 0.36

March 30 1003838-001A 0.0014 0.00083 0.0043 0.40 0.028 0.00021 0.0063 0.0014 0.44

April

April 6 1004160-001A 0.0014 0.00061 0.0055 0.29 0.012 0.00013 0.0053 0.0020 0.43

April 13 1004359-001A 0.0015 0.00099 0.0049 0.26 0.0085 0.00017 0.0050 0.0037 0.39

April 20 1004586-001A 0.0019 0.00071 0.0080 0.38 0.0075 0.00037 0.0050 0.0022 0.41

April 27 1004826-001A 0.0015 0.00062 0.0033 0.26 0.0060 0.00017 0.0037 0.00064 0.29

May

May 4 1005061-001A 0.0019 0.00061 0.0043 0.32 0.0049 0.00019 0.0058 0.0022 0.41

May 11 1005250-001A 0.0012 0.00051 0.0034 0.18 0.0054 0.00035 0.0040 0.00087 0.34

May 18 1005449-001A 0.0015 0.00099 0.0043 0.37 0.0080 0.00025 0.0065 0.0023 0.56

May 25 1005623-001A 0.0015 0.00085 0.0065 0.31 0.0064 0.00071 0.0063 0.0020 0.46
90

Table 9-4 Routine Monitoring Results for SNL/CA Sanitary Sewer Outfall, 2010 (Method E200.8) (Cont.) 

As Cd Cr Cu Pb Hg Ni Ag Zn

Datea

Laboratory ID #

b All results reported in mg/L

June

June 1 1006026-001A 0.0019 0.0010 0.0090 0.42 0.0066 0.00019 0.0039 0.0018 0.56

June 8 1006225-001A 0.0021 0.0012 0.0076 0.57e0.011 0.00028 0.0073 0.0012 0.91

June 15 1006404-001A 0.0014 0.00042 0.0021 0.20 0.0033 0.00011 0.0037 0.00093 0.32

June 22 1006599-001A 0.0012 0.00062 0.0045 0.24 0.0071 0.000088 <0.0005 0.0030 0.34

June 29 1006796-001A 0.0014 0.00042 0.0021 0.24 0.0033 0.00016 0.0028 0.00094 0.30

July

July 6 1007122-001A 0.0012 0.00038 0.0017 0.26 0.0033 0.000062 0.0031 0.00066 0.26

July 13 1007332-001A 0.0011 0.00048 0.0020 0.30 0.0026 0.00041 0.0036 0.0013 0.28

July 19 1007493-001A 0.0018 0.00090 0.0060 0.92e0.0069 0.00032 0.0056 0.0024 0.53

July 27 1007716-001A 0.0011 0.00034 0.0029 0.16 0.0025 0.000071 0.0030 0.00042 0.20

August

August 3 1008062-001A 0.0015 0.0010 0.011 0.33 0.0087 0.00040 0.011 0.0020 0.67

August 10 1008240-001A 0.0016 0.00067 0.0045 0.29 0.0069 0.00022 0.0056 0.0017 0.39

August 17 1008517-001A 0.0013 0.00049 0.0034 0.22 0.0033 0.000080 0.0042 0.00061 0.39

August 24 1008712-001A 0.0011 0.00048 0.0023 0.18 0.0018 0.00024 0.0030 0.0011 0.29

August 31 1008925-001A 0.0012 0.00057 0.0028 0.23 0.0035 0.00018 0.0041 0.0012 0.42

September

September 7 1009146-001A 0.0011 0.00041 0.0016 0.18 0.0031 0.000061 0.0034 0.00079 0.25

September 14 1009361-001A 0.0012 0.00044 0.0038 0.24 0.0047 0.000081 0.0021 0.00076 0.33

September 21 1009566-001A 0.0011 0.00056 0.0045 0.25 0.0051 0.00011 0.0049 0.0013 0.48

September 28 1009744-001A 0.0014 0.00060 0.0025 0.19 0.0050 0.000082 0.0040 0.00056 0.40
91

Table 9-4 Routine Monitoring Results for SNL/CA Sanitary Sewer Outfall, 2010 (Method E200.8) (Cont.) 

As Cd Cr Cu Pb Hg Ni Ag Zn

Datea

Laboratory ID #

b All results reported in mg/L

October

October 5 1010098-001D 0.0013 0.00061 0.0039 0.27 0.0047 0.00047 0.0052 0.0012 0.42

October 12 1010316-001A 0.0013 0.00066 0.0030 0.26 0.0044 0.00013 0.0053 0.0020 0.47

October 19 1010537-001B 0.0014 0.00036 0.0014 0.20 0.0024 0.000051 0.0084 0.00053 0.24

October 26 1010727-001A 0.0013 0.00046 0.0033 0.28 0.0036 0.000078 0.0059 0.0011 0.32

November

November 2 1011070-001A 0.0010 0.00078 0.0020 0.12 0.0028 0.000080 0.0046 0.0010 0.24

November 9 1011268-001A 0.0015 0.00066 0.0021 0.26 0.0044 0.000078 0.0054 0.0011 0.48

November 16 1011462-001A 0.0011 0.00039 0.087 0.14 0.0031 0.000053 0.0035 0.0023 0.44

November 23 1011719-001A 0.0016 0.00058 0.0039 0.19 0.0034 0.000080 0.0065 0.00072 0.56

November 30 1011826-001A 0.0019 0.00036 0.0023 0.12 0.0031 0.00010 0.0040 0.00056 0.24

December*

December 7 1012227-001A 0.0018 0.00066 0.0033 0.20 0.0042 0.00040 0.0063 0.00085 0.40

December 14 1012500-001A 0.0018 0.00060 0.0093 0.21 0.0051 0.00013 0.0058 0.0072 0.58

December 21 1012732-001A 0.0021 0.00063 0.0054 0.22 0.0039 0.00014 0.0055 0.00080 0.88

December 28 1012892-001A 0.0014 0.00038 0.0019 0.14 0.0021 0.00019 0.0025 0.00091 0.41

Discharge 

Limit

c

 0.06 0.14 0.62 1.0 0.20 0.01 0.61 0.20 3.0

*Site shutdown from December 24, 2010 through January 2, 2011. 

a Samples are collected as a weekly composite. 

b Analyses performed by an off-site, independent laboratory. 

c

 Discharge concentration limits, City of Livermore Municipal Code 13.32. 

d Exceedences occurred on February 6 and 7 for copper. 

e Analysis of the daily samples showed no exceedance. 

 
92

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