The Problem:

A proposed school site in Wollert, Victoria, required confirmation that past land uses, primarily agricultural activities, had not left residual contamination that could impact student and staff health. While previous investigations were conducted for nearby areas, no environmental testing had been completed within the new school subdivision itself. Notably, a fragment of asbestos-containing material (ACM) had previously been found just west of the site, raising further concern.

Project Summary:

iEnvi undertook a Preliminary Site Investigation (PSI) and soil sampling at the future school development, encompassing two lots over approximately 9.9 hectares. The PSI followed NEPM (2013) and EPA Victoria guidelines and included a detailed desktop review, visual asbestos inspection, and targeted soil investigation. Eleven surface samples were collected across the site and from nearby soil stockpiles, and analysed for asbestos, heavy metals, petroleum hydrocarbons (TRH), PAHs, BTEX, and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs).

No asbestos fragments were observed during the inspection, and laboratory results confirmed all samples were below Tier 1 screening levels for sensitive land uses such as schools. The investigation also reviewed hydrogeological pathways, determining that any historical contamination sources in the surrounding area were downgradient and unlikely to affect the site. While two soil stockpiles in Lot A showed foreign material, no contaminants were detected.

Solution & Benefit:

The investigation concluded that the site is suitable for school development, with no further environmental audit or Preliminary Risk Screen Assessment (PRSA) required. The clearance certificate issued for asbestos further supports the safety of the site. iEnvi's environmental sampling and contaminated land investigation provided confidence to the client and planning authorities, removing barriers to development and avoiding unnecessary delays. iEnvi recommended surveying the subdivision boundary to confirm stockpile locations and advised future waste classification if needed during construction.

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