The replacement of an Iarnrod Eireann railway level crossing required the construction of an embankment within a surface waterway . ELS worked with the Civil & Structural Design Engineers to include tender specification requirements for waste management (including hazardous wastes) and environmental planning & control measures in order to minimise potential damage to sensitive receptors.

During the tender phase, pre-construction and construction phases of the project, ELS' main tasks were as follows:

Tender Stage
ELS proposed revisions to the Tender Specification to include waste management (including hazardous waste) requirements and environmental damage preventative measures The waste assessment included evaluation of soil and sediments data, waste classification and characterisation, and quantification of waste arisings.

ELS also designed the surface water monitoring and validation works programme.

Pre-Construction Stage
ELS undertook an independent review of key environmental documents prepared by the appointed Contractor and recommended further measures as necessary. The key environmental documents included:

• the Waste Management Plan,
• the Environmental Management Plan
• the Environmental Procedures
• the Surface Water Monitoring Plan

During Construction Stage
The surface water monitoring was independently evaluated by ELS and recommendations for further action were made from this review.

ELS liaised with the appointed Contractor throughout all phases of the construction works. ELS also reviewed the Contractor's Method Statement (MS), and ongoing site control/protection measures.

Finally we provided independent site observation at key periods throughout the construction phase.

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This development comprised a mixed-use residential, retail and commercial development. The site covered an area of 12,000 m2 and the development comprised residential units, retail units, offices and an underground car-park. The underground car-park consisted of a double basement which required excavation over most of the site to a depth of approximately 9 metres.

On behalf of the appointed Building and Civil Engineering Contractor, ELS classified material based upon accepted and legislated waste criteria in accordance with the European Waste Catalogue (EWC) and Hazardous Waste List. We also provided interpretation of vertical and horizontal spatial distribution of the soil waste material.

ELS undertook a detailed review of environmental data gathered during the intrusive site investigation in order to classify the material to be excavated and removed from the site according to the relevant waste management guidelines and regulatory requirements.

Any material to be removed from the site was subject to requirements under the Waste Management Acts, 1996 to 2003 and the Landfill Directive 1999/31/EC and associated regulations, as well as specific licence or permit requirements of any proposed receiving facilities/sites.

The waste soil was classified for recovery/disposal and preliminary material quantities were assigned to each category. The material classification required screening of the soil bulk and leachate laboratory results against the relevant criteria for each waste category. Recommendations for additional soil sample retrieval and analysis were also outlined.

Based upon the findings of the preliminary material classification, appropriate environmental options for re-use, recovery or disposal of material were outlined by ELS, including:

• identification of suitable receiving facilities for off-site material transfer,
• provision of data and liaison with facility representatives,
• review of pertinent permit and licence details, and
• evaluation/cost benefit analysis of recovery v's disposal costs

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This project included a subsurface investigation of land proposed for a bridge replacement and road realignment scheme. The scope of work included tasks at the tender, pre-construction and construction stages as follows:

Tender Stage
ELS provided environmental consultancy services to the Civil and Structural Design Engineers in connection with the Longford Bridge Development at the pre-tender and construction stages. Our tasks included review of the Specification with recommendations for revision in connection with environmental issues, the design of an environmental subsurface investigation and report preparation, the completion of a preliminary qualitative risk assessment in connection with potential risk to the environment and site end-users associated with observed contaminant impact at the development site, and recommendations on the basis of the risk assessment to be considered in the preparation of relevant amendments to the Tender Specification.

Any material to be removed from the site was subject to requirements under the Waste Management Act, 1996; the Landfill Directive 1999/31/EC and associated regulations, as well as specific licence or permit requirements of any proposed receiving facilities/sites.

Material to be excavated was classified by ELS according to the relevant guidelines and regulatory requirements (e.g. hazardous, non-hazardous/inert, or low-level contaminated materials), and preliminary material quantities were assigned to each category.

Based upon the findings of the proposed main site investigation and final specifications for material removal during the proposed bridge replacement, appropriate environmental options for re-use, recovery or disposal of material to be removed from the site were outlined.

Pre-Construction Stage
During the pre-construction stage, ELS' provided ongoing consultancy services including:

• Receive and review the final Cross-Section Drawings detailing the material to be excavated at the site,
• Review and comment as necessary on the environmental aspects of the Contractors Excavation and Dewatering Method Statement, including the excavation location(s) and dimensions, the methodology and associated timeframes for dewatering (if required), material excavation, handling, segregation, and stockpiling prior to dispatch,
• Outline recommendations for additional on-site soil and water sampling and analysis, as required, and associated sample turnaround,
• Review the water discharge licence and any associated documentation,
• Independently review the contact details, permit and/or licence details of all proposed permitted and licensed receiving site(s)/facility(ies), including waste acceptance criteria and procedures
• Review copy(ies) of the Waste Collection Permit(s) for the haulier(s) proposed to be engaged for transportation of the material categories.
• Review the layout and format of the proposed dispatch dockets and associated record keeping procedures relative to each receiving permitted site and licensed facility to be implemented by the Contractor during material dispatch.

Construction Stage
Upon commencement of the site construction, ELS' on-site scope of works included:

• Assist the Contractor and Site Engineer in setting out the excavation location(s) and dimension(s) on site,
• Audit the haulers vehicle identification and Waste Collection Permit details,
• Assist the Contractor and Site Engineer with regard to on-site procedures and arrangements for stockpiling, temporary storage and confirmatory sampling prior to dispatch to the designated appropriate licensed facility or permitted site,
• Retrieve random composite soil samples, schedule the required suite of analysis, and arrange dispatch to a designated suitably accredited laboratory,
• Receive laboratory results and classify the material based on visual observations and soil sample results,
• Maintain appropriate site records including visual observations of material excavated, and the material stockpile and dispatch procedures undertaken by the Contractor during ELS' on-site presence,
• Audit samples of the material dispatch docket and record keeping system as maintained by the Contractor during the on-site works, and
• Prepare a final close out report documenting the material excavation, stockpiling and dispatch procedures and all associated works as described above

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A Guidance Document was prepared by ELS on behalf of a government regulatory body.

The Guidance Document provided a structured and reasoned technical outline to assist with decision making in relation to residential properties impacted by home-heating oil contamination event(s). It outlined a methodology whereby investigations and associated remediation of impacted residential properties are carried out in an objective, efficient and transparent way and where appropriate information is collected at the relevant stages to underpin the investigation/remediation process.

The Guidance Document included a checklist and guidance for best practice associated with the general approach to the investigation and remediation (if required) of residential sites impacted by home-heating oil spill event(s).

The main elements of the Guidance Document included:

• Legislation Overview
  A brief outline of the relevant legislation associated with residential oil spills in Ireland including reference to relevant water, waste and land legislation.
  
  
• Summary of Site Investigation Procedures
  This Section provided an overview of current best practice guidance and standards applicable to residential oil spills/land contamination. It also provided an overview to the development of a conceptual model and the identification of its components - source, pathway, receptor and associated pollutant linkages.
  
  
• Environmental Risk Assessment
  This section provided an overview of the qualitative and quantitative risk assessment process. The aim was to assist the Regulatory Authority to establish whether unacceptable exposure risk exists at a study site and if so what further investigation or action may be needed.
  
  
• Options Appraisal
  A summary and review procedures for evaluating feasible remedial options for a site and determining the most appropriate remediation strategy was outlined. It included the basic approaches to reduce or control risks to receptors, and discussed 'fitness for purpose' and other elements to be considered in the selection of the most appropriate remedial approach, e.g. practicability, expense.
  
  
• Implementation
  This section reviewed the main requirements required for implementing a remediation strategy, including the development of the implementation plan or works specification which should address all aspects of remediation design, implementation, verification and reporting, as well as any long-term monitoring and maintenance that may be required. It looked at a range of aspects to consider when formulating the implementation plan including for example, the requirement for permits or discharge licenses and any other approvals necessary to ensure timely, effective and compliant completion of the remediation process.
  
  
• Verification and Reporting
  This section outlined procedures for evaluating whether the remediation strategy was continuing to be effective. It also recommended key reporting requirements to be undertaken by the Specialist Remediation Contractor at various stages of the investigative/remedial works.

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The site operations included construction of a Town Bypass traversing approximately 7.6 kilometres of rural countryside. Generally the site works included:

• realignment of local roads,
• construction of link roads and roundabouts,
• construction of various chambers and ducting works,
• various landscape environmental and mitigation works,
• culverting and realignment of streams,
• various earthworks,
• diversion of utilities and services, and
• various ancillary works

ELS provided consultancy services to assist with surface water protection, pollution incident control, waste management, and compliance with National and EU legislation.

Particular elements of the EMP to which ELS contributed were:

• Soil and groundwater protection,
• Surface water protection,
• Preparation of Environmental Procedures relating to site activities, including for example fuel storage, refueling operations, and servicing of plant,
• Record keeping procedures,
• Training, awareness and competence,
• Monitoring and Measurement, and Audit Review, and
• Pollution Incident Response Plan (PIRP)

The main elements of the PIRP included:

• Detailing relevant emergency contact details in the event of a pollution event,
• Outlining emergency procedures, including preparation of emergency procedures for posting at key locations across the site, and
• Preparation of a chemical inventory for the site

The EMP and supporting documentation were prepared during the pre-construction phase and evolved during the project with direct input by the Main Contractor.

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The site operations included construction of a Town Bypass traversing approximately 7.6 kilometres of rural countryside. Generally the site works included:

• realignment of local roads,
• construction of link roads and roundabouts,
• construction of various chambers and ducting works,
• various landscape environmental and mitigation works,
• culverting and realignment of streams,
• various earthworks,
• diversion of utilities and services, and
• various ancillary works

ELS provided consultancy services to assist with the preparation of the waste management plan and compliance with National and EU legislation.

The main elements of the WMP to which ELS contributed included:

• Quantities and types of arisings,
• Source of waste/material surplus arisings,
• Proposals for minimisation, reuse and recycling of waste,
• Proposals for waste/material surplus arisings unsuitable for re-use on site,
• Record keeping procedures,
• Roles and responsibilities
• Training awareness and competence, and
• Waste auditing procedures

The WMP was prepared during the pre-construction phase and evolved during the project with direct input by the Main Contractor.

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A Golf & Country Club, Co. (the Club) was located approximately 1.5 km south of a Special Protection Area (SPA) and connected to it by a River. The Club was surrounded by residential properties, commercial and industrial and undeveloped pastureland A release of approximately 5,000 litres of gas oil diesel occurred from property home situated adjacent to the Club.

ELS was responsible for undertaking an investigation of the impacted River/Lake system within the Club grounds. The sampling programme was carried out in accordance with International guidelines. The first stage of the investigation was to develop a conceptual model in order to evaluate the likely behaviour of the oil in the surface water system and to assist with the design of a targeted surface water, riverbank and river-bottom sediment investigation.

Three primary receptor groups identified by ELS were as follows:

1. Controlled waters (sediment and surface water)
2. The Golf Club members; and
3. The SPA

An investigation of selected downstream impacted zones of the River System was designed and undertaken by ELS. The objectives of this environmental assessment were to:

• characterise the riverbank sediment, bottom sediment and surface water quality,
• qualify and quantify baseline conditions within the unaffected/upstream portions of the Ward river/lake system within the Golf Club grounds, and
• propose remedial objectives and target values for the river/lake system

ELS also evaluated potentially suitable treatment strategies/remediation alternatives suitable for the Golf Club in order to achieve the proposed remedial objectives and target values within a feasible and agreed time-frame.

Remediation of the oil spill
The remediation strategy considered for the Club combined physical and in-situ biological treatment technologies including

• Stage 1 - Physical Methods
• Stage 2 - Chemical/Biological In-Situ Methods
• Stage 3 - Re-stocking of Aquatic Plants

Following from the above recommendations, ELS prepared a performance-based 'Remediation Specification' which was submitted to suitable specialist remediation Contractors to tender for the works.

The implementation of the programme was subject to approval by the Local Authority in line with the Conditions of the Section 12 notice. The final design and implementation plan submitted by the selected Contractor was also subject to final approval by the Golf Club.

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ELS has assisted the Comite Europeen des Assurances - Insurers of Europe (CEA), to enhance the development of sustainable insurance solutions for prevention an remedying of environmental damage with particular emphasis on the Environmental Liability Directive (2004/35/EC) (the ELD), as well as other relevant existing and proposed EU legal instruments.

Work undertaken by ELS on behalf of the CEA as a member of the Environmental Expert Task Force has included:

• Research on the methodologies for quantification of environmental damage with particular emphasis on the requirements of the Environmental Liability Directive (2004/35/EC),
• A review of national legal instruments and insurance products & claims, and
• Development of proposed risk assessment procedures in connection with environmental liabilities.

The outcome of the CEA's work includes publications, seminars presented by ELS to the insurance and regulatory community throughout the EU.

Publications available through the CEA co-authored by ELS include:

• The Environmental Liability Directive, Enhancing Sustainable Insurance Solutions, February 2008
• CEA White Paper on Insurability of Environmental Liability, January 2007

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Objective
To investigate site soil, groundwater and soil gas conditions from which key source-pathway-receptor relationships may be identified, i.e. conceptual model development. Further, assist with the site risk assessment and evaluation of viable options for site remediation and development

Methodology
The investigation methodology for the site was dependent upon critical site information (e.g. site layout, access, existing buildings and utilities, ground conditions, etc.) and pre- investigation objectives and considerations (e.g. plans for site development or refurbishment, proposals for divestiture, acquisition, leasing, etc.). All such elements were taken into consideration in advance of the design and commencement of the site investigation (SI).

In accordance with BS10175:2001, Investigation of Potentially Contaminated Sites - Code of Practice, ELS undertook:

• a site reconnaissance and a fully comprehensive desktop study based on reference to historical records, geological and hydrogeological records, and consultation with relevant sources
• Development of an initial site conceptual model
• Design and undertake the intrusive investigation. This was based upon critical site information and pre- investigation objectives and considerations. Elements included:
  - sampling of soils, soil leachate, groundwater and soil gas
  - selection of field and laboratory analysis suites/test parameters
  - selection of competent and suitable accredited laboratory(ies)
• Liaison with stakeholders including site occupiers, to avoid business disruption during the SI
• Preparation of a site investigation specific 'Preliminary Health and Safety Risk Assessment' for incorporation into the Health and Safety Statements of the Client and any investigation sub-contractors
• Review and evaluation of the intrusive site investigation data, including ground descriptions/ soil profile logs, analytical results (soil, soil vapour, leachate, groundwater and surface water), on-site monitoring data (piezometer data, gas monitoring, water field parameters)

Deliverables

• ELS prepared an intrusive Site Investigation report to broadly include:
  - Introduction
  - Objectives
  - Methodology (i.e. sampling and analysis)
  - Observations
  - Discussion of analytical Results and evaluation of the nature and extent of contamination, if present
  - Conclusions and Recommendations
  - Annexes
• Data was presented in tabulated format according to our client's requirements, including:
  - Soil profile log descriptions
  - Borehole installation details
  - Tabulated and screened analytical results
• We identified existing or potential environmental liabilities, provided information for a site specific risk assessment, and assisted with the development of appropriate risk management, mitigation and preventative measures/actions

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ELS' provided environmental consultancy services, in connection with the characterisation of waste material discovered along the embankment of a railway track. The waste material encountered along the embankment was originally part of the perimeter of a former disposal site.

The objective of ELS' work was to undertake an assessment in order to characterise the material encountered along the embankment with regard to suitable off-site transfer/disposal routes and to provide recommendations regarding the handling, storage and recovery/disposal of the material.

The assessment addressed the following objectives:

• provide preliminary information concerning the nature of material encountered;
• assist with a preliminary classification of the waste material in accordance with the waste acceptance criteria pursuant to Council Decision 2003/33/EC; and
• recommend appropriate measures in respect of the ongoing storage, handling and recovery/disposal of the material.

In order to achieve the objectives ELS undertook the following specific tasks:

• excavate shallow trial pits to provide a description and classification of the materials in accordance with the European Waste Catalogue (EWC);
• collect representative composite soil samples and submit to a UKAS and MCERT accredited laboratory for leachate and bulk soil analysis;
• evaluate the laboratory data and undertake preliminary classification of the waste material in accordance with Council Decision 2003/33/EC; and
• evaluate potential recovery/disposal routes for the material.

The results of the assessment and associated recommendations were presented in a Preliminary Site Investigation Report.

The preparation for, frequency and method of sample collection intended for chemical analysis, together with their volume, preservation, handling and recording was carried out in accordance with BS10175:2001.

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ELS personnel have completed subsurface investigations at petroleum service stations and fuel depots located across Ireland on behalf of the petrochemical industry.

The work was undertaken as part of spill response, due diligence, pre-purchase and pre-sale agreements. An intrusive investigation was undertaken at each of the sites and consideration was given to local environmental or commercially sensitive areas, the local geology and hydrogeology, planning restrictions, and client needs.

Appropriate remedial action was taken as appropriate including, tank decommissioning and removal, excavation and disposal of contaminated soil, pump and treat, in-situ bioremediation, air sparging, soil vapour extraction and off-site recovery disposal.

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ELS have provided environmental expertise on behalf of loss adjusters, home-owners and solicitors on a significant number of residential oil spills located throughout the country. Input ranged from assessing extent of damage to soil, foundations, shallow groundwater, and neighbouring properties, as well as recommendation for, and implementation of appropriate remedial measures.

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ELS undertook a review and audit of an organisations environmental performance within the ISO14000 structured management system. The purpose of the review was to ensure that its performance was in keeping with its legal and policy requirements in relation to the environment.

Methodology
In accordance with the ISO 14001 environmental management system (EMS) model, we assisted the organisation with both its overall management and site specific management objectives as follows:

The definition of their environmental policy to ensure that it was:

• appropriate to the nature, scale & environmental impacts of its activities
• committed to continual improvement and prevention of pollution,
• commited to complying with relevant environmental legislation and regulations,
• provided a framework for setting and reviewing environmental objectives and targets,
• documented, implemented and maintained and communicated to all employees, and
• available to the public

During the Planning Stage:

We assisted our client to organise, establish and maintain procedures to identify the environmental aspects of its activities which it could control and ensure that any significant environmental impacts were considered in the setting of objectives.

We identified and outlined access legal and other requirements applicable to the environment.

We assisted our client with the establishment and maintenance of documented environmental objectives and targets, consistent with good environmental policy.

We assisted with the implementation of environmental management programmes for achieving the objectives and targets including designation of responsibility and timeframes for achievement.

During the Implementation and Operation Stage we provided advice regarding resource management in order to ensure that environmental management system requirements were established, implemented and maintained in accordance with the EMS standard.

We also assisted our client with:

• reporting on the environmental performance of the EMS
• training, awareness and competence within the organisation
• internal and external communication
• effective document control
• operational control such as stipulating operating criteria and maintenance activities
• emergency preparedness and response planning

During the Checking and Corrective Action stage we outlined measures and assisted our client to:

• monitor and measure the key characteristics of the operations and activities
• monitor non-conformances and undertake corrective and preventative action
• establish and maintain procedures for the identification, maintenance and disposition of environmental records
• undertake internal auditing to determine whether or not the EMS conformed to planned arrangements for environmental management, as well as proper implementation and maintenance for the EMS
• review policy, objectives and other elements of the EMS in light of changing circumstances and continual improvement

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ELS offer the capability to evaluate Light, (Lux) requirements for various work and associated support areas. Appropriate lighting solutions based on current legal and customer requirements can be recommended to provide the lowest running cost solution. Consideration of current capital depreciation allowances available through the Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) are costed.

These include the energy assessment of lighting systems such as fluorescent, discharge filaments, LED's and incandescent lighting systems. The development of a cost efficient light fixture replacement Microsoft project plan will be a core deliverable. This will allow for the most efficient use of labour and capital over an agreed time line. The key to such a program is the capital value in functioning light fixtures which must be realised.

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ELS can provide recommendations on heating system efficiencies using various fuel types, (oil, heavy fuel oil, natural gas, electricity, biomass). Consideration will be given to the installation of combined heat and power (CHP) solutions where appropriate. Such systems can provide base load electricity requirements to an organisation where a heat requirement is also needed.

Infra red building assessment for heat energy conservation can be undertaken to provide real feedback regarding any agreed insulation changes to a buildings envelope. In the case of buildings constructed with poor insulation, appropriate and cost effective insulation programs can be developed and program managed to ensure that the disruption to occupants is minimised. All projects relating to building fabric insulation are assessed using SEI's Building Energy Rating (BER) software to calculate projected energy savings. BER software allows for the introduction of various insulating materials to calculate possible benefits. The key to heat conservation is building fabric integrity. A full project plan to reduce warm air movement from a building fabric will be developed on Microsoft Project and can be fully project managed by ELS once Technical and Functional Specifications are agreed between all stakeholders.

The capture of waste heat will be assessed for the possibility of being recovered and used in other areas of a building.

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Electrical energy management services provided by ELS include a full examination of our clients electrical bill and an assessment of how best to manage the various tariff's imposed by the energy provider. For example, the minimisation of the Maximum Import Capacity (MIC), the possibility of availing of energy rebates in the winter months when reducing energy needs at peak times, and the switching of power consumption to lower tariff times.

ELS understand that a customers corporate culture, and staff training is a key element in achieving a successful energy management system. The Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) Irish Standard, IS 393 is used by ELS to assist our clients to develop and maintain a corporate wide energy management culture.

ELS can undertake the development of appropriate energy management systems and work with clients as an in house champion for energy conservation.

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ELS can undertake an energy assessment of individual items of plant leading to tailored energy management solutions. For example, auto shut down software, installation of energy saving Variable Speed Drives (VSD's), and a full investigation of possible accelerated capital depreciation programs from SEI.

Areas of assessment may include:

• Electrical motor optimisation
• Energy optimisation for machine cycling
• Heater element optimisation/insulation
• Chilled water energy management
• Refrigeration energy management with appropriate heat recovery systems where plant size permits
• Compressed air use audit, leak identification and the development of a remediation plan. (Compressed air is the costliest means of developing motive force as it has a 10:1 energy input to output ratio)

RESULT OF ENERGY MANAGEMENT AT CLIENT SITE

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The Broadmeadow Viaduct is located within a Special Protection Area (SPA) and a Special Conservation Area (SAC), both which are Natura 2000 sites. The sites are furthermore protected under national legislation as proposed Natural Heritage Areas (pNHAs).

Following the collapse of the Bridge Pier No. 04, emergency stabilisation and construction works were carried out by Jons Civil Engineering Ltd. (JONS) on behalf of Iarnrod Eireann.

ELS provided environmental consultancy services on behalf of JONS, with particular reference to the Environmental Liability Directive (ELD) 2004/35/EC and the European Communities (Environmental Liability) Regulations (S.I. 547 of 2008). To this end, ELS completed a desktop study of publicly available information in connection with surface water quality, protected species and habitats that may be located upon and within the vicinity of the site, with particular reference to aspects of the stabilisation and construction works.

The objective of ELS' works was also to identify potential sources of adverse impact to the environment during the emergency stabilisation and reconstruction works on site and outline relevant potential contaminant source-pathway-receptor (S-P-R) linkages associated with the site activities, outline conclusions and recommendation for impact avoidance, reduction and mitigation.

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ELS undertook a hydrogeological assessment in relation to the proposed installation & operation of a groundwater abstraction well for the Aldi Distribution Centre, Mitchelstown, Co. Cork.

The objective of ELS' work was to provide a qualitative assessment of the level of potential risk posed to the development site by the proposed groundwater abstraction and associated lowering of groundwater levels within the karstified bedrock aquifer at the site. To this end, ELS assessed the potential for adverse impacts on potentially existing subsurface karst features / cavities and for the development of additional sinkholes potentially associated with the proposed lowering of groundwater levels.

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On behalf of a leading commercial lines international insurer, ELS prepared a specialised environmental insurance underwriting guideline in connection with non-pollution environmental damage exposure risks that fall within the scope of the Environmental Liability Directive (ELD) 2004/35/EC.

The principal aim of the underwriting guideline was to provide summary information to our Client's team of underwriters which address the following aspects:

1. a background to provide details on the types of non-pollution related ELD liabilities and example scenarios as to how they may occur;
2. information regarding the type of potential losses that may be associated with such events;
3. the types of risk management procedures that may be considered to prevent the associated losses, with particular reference to 'imminent threat' and 'preventative measures' as per the ELD; and
4. the potential extent of the offending operator's liability within the context of the ELD remediation requirements (primary, complementary and compensatory).
   

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A spillage of approximately 650 litres of hydrochloric acid (36%) occurred at our Client's manufacturing site. The date of the spillage was subsequent to 1 April 2009 transposition date of the Environmental Liability Directive (ELD) 2004/35/EC.

The spill occurred from the breakage of a faulty valve connected to the International Bulk Container (IBC) which contained the acid. Emergency response measures were immediately undertaken by the local fire service including the application of sodium bicarbonate and sand to control and contain the released acid.

All of the materials (i.e. sand, residual foam and sodium bicarbonate) were subsequently removed and stored into 7 No. 1,000 litre IBC containers. These containers were stored at a secure location until collection by a licensed hauler for transport to an approved facility.

The principal aim of ELS' completed works was to assist our Client to comply with the request by the Local Authority Environment Division, to carry out an intrusive environmental assessment to evaluate the potential risk, if any, to environmental receptors resulting from the spill event. ELS also assisted with the classification of the waste and identification of potentially suitable receiving facilities for the characterised waste.

With reference to BS10175 'Investigation of Potentially Contaminated Land' and the Environment Agency 'Remedial Targets Methodology Hydrogeological Risk Assessment for Land Contamination', dated July 2006 ELS carried out an intrusive site investigation, and developed a preliminary conceptual site model (CSM) and preliminary risk assessment. The methodology was based upon a phased approach to risk assessment. The tasks undertaken are summarised as follows:

1. development of a preliminary CSM
2. undertake a qualitative assessment of the level of potential risk posed to identified receptors beneath and in the vicinity of the site from the spill event. This will include a review of publicly available information and shallow soil sampling in the area of the spill and submit samples to an accredited laboratory for analysis (i.e. Level 1 soil zone assessment),
3. undertake sampling of the stored waste materials and submit samples to an accredited laboratory for analysis of parameters in accordance with Council Decision of 19 December 2002 establishing criteria and procedures for the acceptance of waste at landfills pursuant to Article 16 of the Landfill Directive,
4. prepare a summary report outlining the preliminary conceptual site model and qualitative risk assessment and the results of the sampling and subsequent laboratory analysis, also provide recommendations with regard to appropriate transfer/disposal alternatives and environmental measures in respect of the ongoing storage, handling and recovery/disposal of the waste material.
   

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