Due to the evolving understanding of the negative toxicological impacts from exposures to uncontrolled volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and semivolatile organic compounds (SVOCs), the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) and other regulatory agencies are now requiring real-time, sensitive air monitoring during remedial operations such as excavation or dewatering.

The need for sensitive air-monitoring and field screening is crucial during excavation of soils containing VOCs (such as tetrachloroethylene (PCE) and trichloroethylene (TCE)) because commonly available photoionization detectors (PIDs) and other screening instruments are not sensitive enough to accurately give real-time feed-back at and around a project area in response to limits set by the MassDEP. Use of a HAPSITE portable GC/MS allows for the real-time detection of VOCs liberated during remedial operations both on the job site and at the perimeter and surrounding area prior to, during, and after project activity.

This same real-time monitoring equipment is also used by the US Military in warfare theaters where chemical weapons are of concern as well as by Certified Industrial Hygienists (CIHs) to evaluate potential industrial hygiene exposures in manufacturing operations state side.

SAGE is one of the only firms in New England to have invested in the equipment and training to provide this specialized form of air monitoring. We have operated real-time air monitoring equipment in support of its and other consultants’ remedial projects. At times redevelopment cannot occur under the authorization of the regulatory agency unless real-time air monitoring is being performed. To ensure that there are no delays with these redevelopment projects, SAGE can provide an instrument and trained technician as well as a back-up unit to support a real-time air monitoring program that will satisfy a regulatory agency and minimize down-time due to air monitoring requirements.