During an upgrade of playground equipment at a kindergarten in Moree, an old tarmac surface was uncovered. Moree Council’s testing of the tarmac showed an elevation in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), some of which are considered carcinogenic.
THE SOLUTION
The data was reviewed and a risk assessment completed. Although it was acknowledged that there were no current pathways of exposure, it was determined that remediation should be undertaken.
The EESI team implemented and managed the remediation using our patented bioremediation process, Dynamic Biopiles. Approximately 1,600m³ of soil was excavated and transported offsite for bioremediation.
Treatment was undertaken over a period of two months during which the soil was systematically sampled. Originally measured at up to 2,500mg/kg, after remediation no presence of PAHs was detected.
THE BENEFITS
Although the risk assessment showed that there were no current pathways of exposure from the contamination formerly present and concluded that the kindergarten was safe for the children to attend, the benefit of remediation was peace of mind to the community, kindergarten users and the Council – removing the potential for any future exposure issues.
The remediation of the soil was completed in an economical, sustainable manner and also reduces potential environmental liability for the client.
Effective remediation of the soil offsite allowed for other works onsite to continue, resulting in minimal disruption for the client.
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