ESAA - Risk-Based Guidelines for Contaminated Sites in Alberta

The objective of this course is to introduce the concept of risk-based assessment to technologists, contaminated sites professionals and industry managers. The course will use a combination of presentations, examples and interactive exercises based on case studies to look at the three processes encompassing the Alberta Framework for the Management of Contaminated Sites, namely Tier 1, Tier 2 and Exposure control.

The intention of the course is to explain the concepts, applicability and limitations of the three management mechanisms to those who are:

• new to the industry or province;
• do not regularly perform Tier 2 assessments but rely on the results or sell services to clients; and
• familiar with the concepts of Tier 1 and Tier 2 but are seeking a greater understanding of the science behind the numbers.

Using the Tier 1 and Tier 2 Guidance documentation as the course literature, participants will explore the rationale and implications of generic assumptions, “rules” and “triggers” in relation to data collection, remediation design and general site management. The course is particularly suited to those relying upon the results of Phase 2 ESAs, Tier 2 assessments or Risk Management Plans to; gather data, apply remediation strategies or make management decisions.

Instructor:  Louise Burden has a Bachelors degree in Geology from the Royal School of Mines, Imperial College, London, UK, a Masters Degree in Hydrogeology from the University of Birmingham, UK and over Twenty five years’ experience in the assessment of contaminated sites in the UK, Ireland and Canada. Her specialty is in contaminant hydrogeology and risk-based assessment of land contamination. She is currently an independent consultant who works with consultants and site managers to provide technical expertise to contaminated sites projects.