7.2 Historical site assessment
A historical site assessment should be performed for all areas included in the characterization. The objectives of the historical site assessment are:
- To identify possible sources of radiological and non-radiological contamination and other hazards;
- To identify the characteristics of the contaminants;
- To identify related past activities or accidents that occurred in the area;
- To determine whether the site poses a threat to human health or the environment;
- To provide input into the design of the characterization survey;
- To provide an assessment of the likelihood of migration of contaminants;
Existing information that provides a physical description of the area should be collected, including aspects such as location, buildings, buried material, physical barriers, geological and hydrogeological characteristics, type of soil and human activities on or near the area that may help to identify individuals who may potentially be affected by the remediation. The information should be collected by means of (i) a review of old operational records, past radiological and non-radiological surveys and local government records and files, and (ii) interviews with present and former employees.
References:
Remediation process for areas affected by past activities and accidents (Safety Guide, Series No. WS-G-3.1)