PFAS Characterization at Fuel Storage and Distribution Facility
Confidential Fuel Storage and Distribution Facility • Southern California
Solution Overview
Client:
Confidential client
Business Challenge:
- Evaluate the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in soil and groundwater
Solution:
- Developed comprehensive work plans and sampling and analysis plans (SAPs)
Results:
- Performed sampling and provided our client with valuable information about site soil and groundwater conditions
Challenge
The client hired Apex Companies to plan and implement investigations to evaluate the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in soil and groundwater at several fuel storage and distribution facilities. These included a 50‑acre facility, 330-acre facility, and a 5-acre marine fuel terminal.
Solution
Apex developed comprehensive work plans and sampling and analysis plans (SAPs) based on the latest information and currently accepted practices related to PFAS assessment and evaluation. Because PFAS are so ubiquitous in the environment, cross contamination from common items such as field clothing, sampling equipment, and sample containers is a significant concern. The SAPs included quality assurance protocols for all aspects of the soil and groundwater media samples.
During these investigations, Apex utilized the expertise and services of an Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (ELAP)-accredited analytical laboratory to analyze approximately 40 different PFAS compounds.
Results
Our comprehensive investigation included the collection of drinking water samples from faucets and drinking fountains at the main and marine terminals, and targeted soil and groundwater sampling in the vicinity of former storage locations of aqueous film forming foam (AFFF), fire monitors, fuel tanks, and trucks, as well as systematic sampling to provide comprehensive site data.
Based on these results, our client was able to gain valuable information about the conditions of site soil and groundwater, allowing them to plan more effectively for potential future redevelopment and/or sale of the property.