ASCE Environmental Site Investigation Manual Put to Practical Use as an Industry Reference

Abstract

From across the nation a task committee of recognized experts assembled to prepare a guidance manual for professionals involved in the due diligence evaluation of site contamination from oil or hazardous materials. This ASCE committee of 15 members was chaired by the first writer. The manual provides guidance for professionals involved in the determination of possible site contamination with oil or hazardous materials from preliminary assessments, to subsurface investigations, through remediation. The writers have used the manual repeatedly to establish the acceptable quality of environmental studies by others, and to reference in their environmental studies completed for clients. As environmental practitioners, they cited specific instances in which the manual has been most useful. Based upon their experience, the manual is becoming an accepted reference document in the industry with financial, legal, and engineering firms responsible for the due diligence needs of land parcels. The manual can become a stronghold in the industry given its comprehensive nature and timeliness, a first of its kind developed by a professional and technical organization.