Contaminated site investigations typically progress through multiple stages due to the complexity of site conditions, the nature of contaminants, and the potential for unexpected findings. A poorly planned or executed investigation can result in project delays, increased costs, and the collection of inadequate or misleading data — all of which may lead to unacceptable risks to human health and the environment.
At Earthwise Environmental, we offer comprehensive services aligned with the national contaminated land management framework, delivered by a Certified Site Assessment and Management (CSAM) professional accredited by Soil Science Australia. Our expert-led investigations ensure that all works are conducted in accordance with relevant legislation, industry standards, and best practice guidelines.
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A Preliminary Site Investigation (PSI) involves a combination of a site inspection and desktop study to assess the likelihood of contamination. The primary objective is to identify any past or present activities — either on-site or nearby — that may have introduced contaminants into the soil or groundwater.
Where no potential sources of contamination are identified, a Stage 2 Detailed Site Investigation (DSI) may not be required.
In some cases, limited sampling and analysis of soil or groundwater may be undertaken as part of the PSI to better inform the decision on whether further investigation is necessary.
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A Detailed Site Investigation (DSI) is undertaken when a Preliminary Site Investigation (PSI) identifies actual or potential contamination, or when available information is insufficient to rule out the presence of contamination.
The purpose of a DSI is to:
Confirm the presence and type of contamination.
Accurately delineate its lateral and vertical extent.
Assess the potential risks to human health and the environment.
Inform the need for remediation or risk management.
The DSI provides the technical basis for risk assessment and, where required, supports the development of a Remedial Action Plan (RAP). At Earthwise Environmental, all DSIs are undertaken in accordance with current guidelines and are overseen by a CSAM-accredited professional to ensure compliance and technical integrity.
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Remedial action plans (RAP) set remediation goals to ensure that the remediated site will be suitable for the proposed land use and will pose no unacceptable risk to human health or to the environment.
Our advice for remediation is founded on a risk-based approach to contamination, thereby assisting our clients find a balance between project costs, timelines, relevant local or state regulatory requirements, and community expectations.
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After site remediation (clean up) follow up validation testing is required to confirm that a site has been successfully remediated.
Earthwise Environmental can assist with follow up monitoring and validation testing and provide either a clearance certificate.
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Providing a clear understanding of the potential contamination status of a property, its suitability for use and any likely future costs and liabilities prior to a commitment to its purchase.
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Assess soil contamination status for on-site or off-site removal. See our waste classification page for more information
We provide support across all stages of the site assessment process: