Site Characterization


The releases of contaminants into the soil, surface water, groundwater, and air can occur from a wide variety of activities over specific and unknown periods of time.  They can affect one or many media and receptors.  GEM has provided high quality characterization services to the government and industry for over 13 years.  These characterizations include: limited site inspections, comprehensive site inspections, hazardous waste sampling, comprehensive compliance audits, environmental impairment liability audits, Phase I and Phase II property transfer assessments (including pre-construction assessments), OSHA compliance audits, and due diligence audits. GEM staff has significant experience in subsurface and surface/facility characterizations.

Risks associated with a contaminant release can range from minimal human health risks and environmental impacts to an on-going source of exposure to a community.  The ultimate goal of any site characterization is the accurate description (quantitative and qualitative) of the contaminants of concern released at a site and their impact to it. The characterization provides the basis for sound environmental decisions.  The scope of the characterization varies based on site conditions, knowledge of release occurrences, required level of effort, and costs.  To maximize the return of the characterization process, innovative, streamlined, and cost effective approaches are developed. GEM uses a multi-disciplinary team of professionals to develop the optimum approach and to perform the optimum characterization activities.

GEM highly trained technical and field staff is capable of a full array of field sampling and analytical tasks. All field personnel are trained per the OSHA 1910.120-40 hour requirement and receive the annual 8-hour refresher training.  Our staff is also trained and experienced in conducting work in Level B personal protection. All site personnel are also under a current medical monitoring program. GEM also maintains an extensive Standard Operating Procedures document related to field sampling and field quality control procedures.

We have the technical expertise and resources to prepare and implement every aspect of any required material, soil, or groundwater investigation. Our qualified engineers, scientists, and geologists can provide technical leadership and support in the following areas: