How generic, risk-based Tier 1 soil and groundwater remediation guidelines are developed and applied to contaminated sites in Alberta.
Tier 1 soil and groundwater remediation guidelines are generic, risk-based values built on conservative assumptions so that they can be applied at most contaminated sites in Alberta. This course explains the principles of contaminant management that underpin them, namely source control, delineation and contaminant management, together with policies on background soil and groundwater quality, land use, protection of Domestic Use Aquifers (DUAs), points of compliance, and the management of subsoil and petroleum hydrocarbon (PHC) contamination at depth.
The course then sets out the framework of Tier 1, Tier 2 and Exposure Control management options, the five generic land use categories and the four groundwater and surface water uses, and the scientific basis for the guidelines, including human and ecological receptors, exposure pathways, protection endpoints and selection of the overall guideline. Practical user guidance follows on the information needed for a Tier 1 assessment, conditions where Tier 1 values are not applicable, identifying the governing guidelines by soil type and land use, special considerations for salinity, barite, elemental sulphur and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and when a move to Tier 2 is appropriate.
What Will Be Covered:
The role of Tier 1 guidelines within the provincial contaminated sites management framework
Source control, delineation and contaminant management, including subsoil and deep PHC guidance
Background soil and groundwater quality and the influence of land use on guideline selection
Protection of Domestic Use Aquifers and the setting of points of compliance for groundwater
Tier 1, Tier 2 and Exposure Control options, and definitions of land uses and water uses
Risk-based guideline derivation: receptors, exposure pathways and human and ecological protection endpoints
Information requirements for a Tier 1 assessment, including site sensitivity, soil texture and contaminant distribution
Conditions where Tier 1 guidelines do not apply, such as stagnant water bodies, coarse utility corridors and high groundwater velocity
Substance-specific guidance for salinity, barium and barite, elemental sulphur and PAHs
The Tier 1 decision process and assessment of opportunities for Tier 2
2 activities • 1 chapters • duration: 1.5 hours
Professional online education for engineers and technical professionals
Engineering Education Group provides online professional development and continuing education courses for engineers, technical professionals, and industry practitioners. Our programs focus on practical skills, technical knowledge, industry standards, and lifelong learning through flexible and accessible online education.
Professional development requirements vary by profession, country, and regulatory body. Before enrolling, review the course details and confirm that the content, learning format, and any listed credits meet your specific requirements. You are responsible for confirming eligibility with your regulator or professional association and keeping the records required for reporting.
