Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2013C00288:reg:1:p1
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2013C00288
Segment Type: reg
Provision Reference: reg 1 (pt 1/3)
Character Range: 34923–38169

1                   Introduction

1.1              Overview
The purpose of site assessment is to determine the human health and ecological risks associated with the presence of site contamination and to inform any remediation or management plan to make the site fit for the current or proposed land use. The appropriate use of investigation levels is an integral component of the assessment process.

This Schedule provides a framework for the use of investigation and screening levels. The framework is based on a matrix of human health and ecological soil and groundwater investigation and screening levels and guidance for specific contaminants. The derivation of health-based investigation levels is outlined in Schedule B7, and the risk assessment methodologies are detailed in Schedule B4. Schedule B5a outlines a risk-based framework for site-specific ecological risk assessment. The derivation of ecological investigation levels is outlined in Schedule B5c and the methodology is detailed in Schedule B5b. Reference is also made to the derivation and use of health and ecological screening levels in site assessment.

The selection of the most appropriate investigation levels for use in a range of environmental settings and land use scenarios should consider factors including the protection of human health, ecosystems, groundwater resources and aesthetics. The development of a conceptual site model is an essential element of site assessment and should inform the selection of appropriate investigation and screening criteria. A balance between the use of generic soil, soil vapour and groundwater criteria and site-specific considerations is essential practice in site assessment.

1.2              Prevention of site contamination
The National Environment Protection (Assessment of Site Contamination) Measure 1999 (NEPM) does not provide guidance on prevention of site contamination. Owners and occupiers of sites on which potentially contaminating activities are occurring are subject to the environmental protection legislation applying in each jurisdiction. Legislation provides for appropriate controls on potentially contaminating sources, including licensing of industrial activities, to minimise emissions and its application is the principal strategy for prevention of soil and groundwater contamination.

1.3              Specialised assessments
Specialised forms of assessment are required for sites affected by the following types of contaminants:
    * radioactive substances
    * unexploded ordnance
    * pathogenic materials and waste
    * explosive gas mixtures.
In situations where these materials occur on a site under assessment, guidance should be sought from the relevant jurisdictional environmental or health authority for assessment requirements. While the general principles of site assessment are applicable to these contamination types, compliance with specialised safety protocols and assessment guidance is essential to ensure protection of human health and the environment.

1.4              Acute hazards
Risk of explosion or other acute exposure hazards should be addressed immediately and are not within the scope of this guidance document.
Health effects can be broadly separated into acute and