ETC Environmental Site Assessment & Investigation

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) conducted under ASTM E1527?

Accepted Answer

To identify recognized environmental conditions (RECs) through records review, site inspection, and interviews without sampling

Answer

A Phase I ESA identifies Recognized Environmental Conditions (RECs) — past or present hazardous substance use or releases — through historical records, regulatory database review, site inspection, and interviews, without physical sampling.

Question 2

Which regulatory database is reviewed during a Phase I ESA to identify properties listed as federal Superfund sites?

Accepted Answer

CERCLIS (CERCLA Information System / SEMS)

Answer

The CERCLA Information System (now called SEMS — Superfund Enterprise Management System) lists sites on the National Priorities List (NPL) and other CERCLA sites, which are mandatory review items in Phase I ESAs.

Question 3

During a Phase I ESA, the environmental professional discovers historical aerial photographs showing underground storage tanks (USTs) that were removed in 1985 with no closure documentation. This finding would most likely be reported as:

Accepted Answer

A Recognized Environmental Condition (REC) warranting Phase II investigation

Answer

Formerly present USTs removed without documented regulatory closure represent a REC because contamination from leaks or improper closure may remain, warranting Phase II sampling to investigate.

Question 4

What is the primary objective of a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment?

Accepted Answer

To collect and analyze environmental samples to confirm or deny the presence of contamination identified in the Phase I ESA

Answer

A Phase II ESA involves collecting and analyzing soil, groundwater, soil gas, or building material samples at locations targeted by Phase I RECs to confirm or refute whether contamination is actually present.

Question 5

When evaluating historical aerial photographs in a Phase I ESA, which feature would most strongly suggest the potential for chlorinated solvent contamination on a commercial property?

Accepted Answer

Dry cleaning establishment operated on-site from 1955 to 1990

Answer

Dry cleaners historically used tetrachloroethylene (PCE) as a cleaning solvent, which is a common and persistent groundwater contaminant; former dry cleaning operations are one of the most significant sources of chlorinated solvent RECs.

ETC - Environmental Technician Certification Practice Test

ETC - Environmental Technician Certification Practice Test

ETC Environmental Site Assessment & Investigation