Area-Wide Soil Contamination     |     Toolbox      |     Overview

Because of the variability in the distribution of arsenic and lead from area-wide soil contamination sources, individual property evaluations are important to understand whether there is the potential for exposure to elevated levels of arsenic and lead in soil at a particular property. Three types of evaluation tools and guidance are provided here in order of use:

  •  Individual Property Evaluation Flowchart

    • This flowchart describes how individuals or organizations can use information about a property’s location and land-use and development history to evaluate whether elevated levels of arsenic and lead in soil are likely to be present. Based on this information, individuals may choose to conduct soil sampling to determine whether elevated levels of arsenic and lead are actually present, and/or to implement protection measures to reduce any potential for exposure.

  • Qualitative Evaluation Checklist for Understanding Potential Exposures to Arsenic and Lead in Soil

    • This checklist is designed to help individuals or organizations use easily observable features of a property (such as the presence or absence of bare dirt) to identify situations where there is or could be direct, frequent contact with contaminated soil over a period of months.

  • Sampling Guidance

    • Where qualitative evaluations indicate that lead and/or arsenic contamination is likely, individuals or organizations may choose to conduct soil sampling to determine if elevated levels of arsenic and lead are actually present in soil on a property. Guidance on how to collect and analyze soil samples is provided for two typical types of properties: child-use areas and residential yards.

         This guidance is available through this website by selecting one of the titles listed here. If you prefer to receive a printed copy of the guidance please contact Carol Dorn at cesg461@ecy.wa.gov or 360/407-7224. Please reference the appropriate publication numbers when requesting any of these brochures:

    Return to top of page
    Area-Wide Homepage
     

    This page was last updated 07/16/2007