On certain sites, achieving generic remediation criteria through excavation or in-situ treatment may be technically unfeasible, cost-prohibitive, or incompatible with existing operations and infrastructure. In these cases, remediation through risk assessment offers a way forward: managing contamination on-site by demonstrating and controlling the actual risk to users and the environment.
The procedure involves two components: (1) Risk Assessment, which determines the nature and extent of the risk to human health and the ecosystem; and (2) Risk Management, which proposes mitigation and control measures. This approach is far more complex than a simple comparison to criteria; it requires a solid conceptual site model, defensible exposure scenarios, and rigorous technical justification.
Projects submitted to the Ministry under this framework are complex and evaluated by a group of specialists (Technical Evaluation Group – GTE). They examine toxicological and ecotoxicological aspects, impacts on groundwater, and compatibility with the Environment Quality Act (EQA), the Land Protection and Rehabilitation Regulation (LPRRR), and Ministry policies and guidelines. Documentation standards are also strictly governed for professionals authorized under Section 31.42 of the EQA.
HDS verifies if remediation through risk assessment and management is relevant for the site (technical constraints, non-viable decontamination options, current and future land use, receiving environments). This step clarifies the regulatory path, the exposure scenarios to be covered, and the data required before submitting the study to the Ministry.
We conduct risk assessments by considering the environment, land use of the site and neighboring properties, and relevant receptors. Our approach relies on MELCCFP guides and guidelines (e.g., ecotoxicological evaluations) to produce a clear and defensible demonstration of the actual risks associated with the contamination in place.
HDS develops management measures to reduce risk to an acceptable level (e.g., containment, barriers, land-use restrictions, preventive measures, environmental monitoring) and structures the deliverables required for Ministry review. We ensure the consistency of documentation signed by professionals authorized under Section 31.42, in compliance with applicable MELCCFP instructions.
Remediation through risk assessment and management often allows projects to move forward despite major constraints (existing buildings, infrastructure, high volumes, operational issues) by keeping contamination on-site while controlling exposure. The result: a realistic option to revitalize or secure the use of a property when excavation or treatment is not viable.
Instead of systematically aiming for generic criteria through massive excavation, the risk-based approach allows for the design of proportional measures. We target real exposure pathways, prioritize issues, and deploy effective controls (capping, barriers, restrictions). This can reduce work duration, operational disruptions, and costs, all while protecting users and the environment.
Because the analysis is evaluated according to the EQA, the LPRRR, and Ministry guidelines, and reviewed by the GTE, you gain a solid foundation for regulatory acceptability and the long-term sustainability of the measures. Compliance with professional instructions (Section 31.42) further strengthens the quality and integrity of the submitted documentation.
Analysis of health and environmental (ecological) risks associated to contaminated sites, measures to protect health and the environment, technological risk analyzes; determination of the probabilities of undesirable effects and distances of impact of industrial activities likely to generate losses.
Combining environmental expertise and industrial hygiene, HDS supports companies in the proactive management of risks and compliance. We protect your personnel and facilities through cutting-edge expertise and personalized guidance.
