Contaminated land poses significant challenges for property owners and developers, causing project delays, compliance issues and dangers to public health. It is critical to implement an effective management program, beginning with contaminated site investigation and testing.
At West Soil & Water, we provide thorough contaminated land investigation services, guiding our partners through the complexities of assessment and remediation. All of our investigations are carried out in accordance with the Contaminated Sites Act 2003, ensuring all projects are in line with WA law.
These investigations are thorough, systematic processes that look to identify, assess and manage sites affected by hazardous substances. They are crucial in determining the extent of contamination and formulating proper strategies should you choose to remediate.
In Western Australia, the investigation process is typically separated into two phases:
Preliminary Site Investigation (PSI): A desktop study that reviews historical land use and previous site inspections to identify potential contaminants.
Detailed Site Investigation (DSI): In-depth sampling and analysis of soil, groundwater and other parameters to understand contamination levels and distribution.
You may have also seen these referred to as Phase 1 & 2 Environmental Site Assessments.
A good investigation will be constructed in accordance with guidelines provided by the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) and the National Environment Protection (Assessment of Site Contamination) Measure 1999 (ASC NEPM). To ensure that your assessments reach these standards, consult an environmental professional in the early stages of development.
If potential contamination is identified during a PSI, a DSI will commence to complete testing and laboratory analysis. This phase involves the collection of soil, groundwater, surface water and/or vapour samples from strategically selected locations across the site. At West Soil & Water, we send samples for analysis at NATA-accredited laboratories, ensuring the highest quality of testing for hydrocarbons, heavy metals, asbestos and other substances.
We conduct contaminated site testing in line with DWER and NEPM guidelines. Our sample densiity, depth and methods are chosen to suit contaminant types and site complexity so that results accurately reflect concentration gradients, hotspots and plumes. With that information, you have the scientific evidence necessary to classify the site and engage remediation services.
At WSW, we also recognise that soil testing can be a financial hurdle. We provide full-consultation on the available testing regimes to help you avoid under or over-sampling. Our team can also design custom plans that balance thoroughness with practicality, leaving you with clear, compliant data that supports decision-making and prevents unexpected costs.
In Western Australia, some of the most commonly encountered contaminants include:
Petroleum Hydrocarbons
Heavy Metals
Asbestos
Pesticides and Herbicides
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)
Each of these substances can pose risks to the viability of your site and project. Early identification and robust management acts as a safeguard against remediation surprises and regulatory hurdles.
In the late 1990s, Australian states began constructing legislative frameworks for contaminated land. Notable examples include the Environmental Protection Act (VIC).
In Western Australia, the management of contaminated sites is governed by the Contaminated Sites Act 2003 and the Contaminated Sites Regulations 2006. These mandate reporting, investigation and remediation.
Again, it is important to engage qualified environmental consultants in order to navigate these requirements effectively. Without proper consultation, you may fail to meet the requirements of the legislation that governs your project.
At West Soil & Water, our team uses their 13 years of experience to tailor contaminated land investigations to sites across Western Australia. We pride ourselves on:
Compliant Assessments: All of our preliminary and detailed investigations and constructed to comply with DWER and NEPM guidelines.
Comprehensive Risk Evaluation: We go beyond how the project will be affected and assess potential impacts on human health and the environment.
Open and Honest Stakeholder Engagement: We collaborate with clients, regulators and other stakeholders during the process to ensure all parties are satisfied.
WSW’s goal is to provide clear, actionable insights that facilitate informed decision-making and effective remediation services.
If you are purchasing, leasing or redeveloping land and have concerns about possible contamination, these are the steps you should follow. It’s important to take these actions alongside an experienced environmental consultant to ensure a thorough investigation that meets WA standards.
Conduct a PSI
Review historical land use and conduct a visual inspection to identify potential contamination risks.
Search the WA Contaminated Sites Database
Check whether the site is listed or classified under the Act
Assess Surrounding Land Use
Investigate neighbouring properties for any off-site contamination risks.
Commission a DSI if required
If the PSI identifies contaminants, engage a qualified consultant for sampling and laboratory analysis.
Understand Site Classification and Obligations
Once DWER has classified your site, review its classifications and what management actions are required.
Consider Regulatory Reporting Requirements
If contamination is found, complete the appropriate reporting and compliance measures.
Evaluate Risks to Project and Future Land Use
To prevent any issues later in the timeline, assess how contamination could affect your project’s design, approvals and cost.
Proper investigation is the first step in effective land management and project success. Without it, you can find yourself subject to delayed approvals and surprise costs later down the line.
Our team of contaminated land consultants have spent nearly 15 years working on sites across Western Australia. We understand not only the complexities of our natural environment, but also our regulatory landscape. From initial assessment to remediation, we will ensure your project is safe, efficient and compliant with legislation.
For more information, please contact West Soil & Water.
