AUDIT PROTOCOL FOR THE INVESTIGATION OF CONTAMINATED SITES

About the Book

An environmental audit on an industrial premise employing a due diligence approach was conducted which includes interview, site historical review, soil and groundwater sampling and analysis. The due diligence audit was conducted to ensure that the premise is free from any environmental and regulatory noncompliance, since there is a potential property transaction. Based on the initial investigation comprehending onsite and offsite interviews of workers from neighbouring sites and local authorities, findings indicate that the site is free from any contaminant. Soil and groundwater samplings using borehole soil investigation method and further analysis using Inductive Couple Plasma (ICP) spectrometer for determining heavy metals, showed lead in paint at one location at a value of 870 ppm used in the building. Barium and lead was also detected in soil. Barium was 1020 and 576 ppm at two locations and lead was 914 and 880 ppm soil analysis. Chromium and barium was also detected in groundwater. Chromium was 56 and 63 ppm and barium was 1420 and 3780 ppm for groundwater. The levels of the identified contaminants were compared with the Dutch Intervention (DIV 2000) Standards because Malaysia does not have any heavy metal standards for soil and groundwater contamination on any industrial premise. A risk assessment was made to determine the extent of the potential harm that could arise from the contaminants and the impacts on the occupants on site, the neighbouring sites and the ecosystem. Based on the audit protocol for the investigation of a contaminated site developed in this study indicated that the risk assessment for the site is safe to be used.

About the Author

Dr. Ir. Amar is a leader with more than 35 years of work experience. Extensive global experience in more than 10 countries, leading cross-functional teams and industry-wide initiatives to develop product integrity and EHS sustainability strategies, business continuity plans, lean manufacturing, value stream mapping and social compliance programs. He is a recognized expert in industrial engineering, product integrity, EHS, social compliance and lean manufacturing. He has a strong balance of technical credibility and experience to drive progress on sustainability strategies and challenges that multi-national corporations face today. He is an excellent applicator and trainer on problem solving methodologies and problem solving tool applications. Possess demonstrated abilities to create and communicate innovative strategies across the supply chains of globally recognized brands. Persuasive advocate and collaborative partner focused on aligning policy initiatives with business objectives in order to maximize benefit to the enterprise and its stakeholders. He currently leads ROOT Business Solutions [RBS] as their principal consultant by providing expertise on subject matters in relation to product compliance, manufacturing, engineering, value stream mapping and resolving/eliminating business or process related issues. Obtained his Doctorate in Environmental Technology and Master of Science degree in quality control and instrumentation from USM, Penang. He obtained his Bachelor degree in Engineering from Middlesex U, London. Dr. Ir. Amar is a registered professional engineer in Malaysia and was a registered chartered professional engineer in Australia. Dr. Ir. Amar Singh Ph. D, PE, MIEM