Sample interview questions: How do you assess the potential risks of groundwater contamination from underground storage tanks?
Sample answer:
Assess Potential Risks of Groundwater Contamination from Underground Storage Tanks
1. Collect Data and Assess Historical Conditions:
- Review tank installation and maintenance records to identify any potential leaks or spills.
- Conduct site investigations to determine the presence of contaminants and delineate their extent.
- Consult historical aerial photographs and topographic maps to understand past land use and potential sources of contamination.
2. Analyze Contaminants and Pathways:
- Identify the type and concentration of contaminants present in the groundwater.
- Determine the groundwater flow direction and hydraulic gradient to assess the potential movement of contaminants.
- Evaluate the presence of fractures, faults, or other pathways that could facilitate contaminant migration.
3. Establish Risk Assessment Criteria:
- Determine acceptable levels of contaminants based on regulatory standards and health effects benchmarks.
- Consider the proximity and vulnerability of nearby water resources, such as drinking water sources and aquifers.
- Establish buffer zones to protect sensitive areas from potential contamination.
4. Implement Monitoring and Mitigation Measures:
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