On November 6, 2013, ASTM issued its updated standard practice for conducting Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs): ASTM E1527-13. The updated ASTM standard will clarify several items including new definitions for Recognized Environmental Condition (REC) and Historical REC (HREC), and it introduces a new type of REC: a Controlled REC (CREC). Additionally, vapor migration assessment will be included as a scope requirement under the updated standard. Vapor migration assessments evaluate the potential for vapor-phase hazardous materials or petroleum products to migrate onto a property. An emphasis on regulatory file reviews has also been included in the updated standard.
By early 2014, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) is expected to accept the new ASTM standard as compliant with the “All Appropriate Inquiry” rule that helps prospective purchasers qualify for one of the three Landowner Liability Protections under CERCLA (aka Superfund): the Innocent Landowner defense, Bona Fide Prospective Purchaser defense, and the Contiguous Property Owner defense.
For more information, please contact Michael Roark, R.G., LEED AP at 314-997-7440 or m_roark@geotechnology.com.