Soil contamination testing
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Contaminated land analysis for Albert Cole Consultants
Albert Cole Consultants have forged a reputation as well-known building surveyors and construction materials consultants. They specialise in concrete investigations, composite cladding inspections and testing for potentially contaminated land. They have recently provided consulting services for a client’s new housing development in Elephant & Castle, London and Normec DETS provided essential analytical testing services for suspected contaminated land.
During the project, a mobile elevated work platform caused a hydraulic hose failure. This incident resulted in a significant spill of hydraulic fluid over a prominent pathway composed of expensive gravel. The pathway was a key feature of the new development. Albert Cole Consultants’ client was understandably concerned about the extent of the contamination. Confirmation that the spill had been cleaned to an acceptable standard by the third party responsible was therefore needed. They also wanted to avoid costly delays and replacements that could affect the project’s handover timeline.
Normec DETS advised on the most suitable test to help confirm that the spill had been cleaned to a high standard. After a review, all parties agreed to carry out a full air-dried contamination suite, focusing on the hydrocarbon banding at the C16+ range. This rigorous testing approach was chosen to confirm that the gravel pathway was free from contamination. This ‘belt and braces’ strategy ensured no residual effects of the spill remained. It also ruled out any potential secondary contamination.
“Normec DETS is always very ready to offer advice on the best and most cost effective analyses suited to the project in hand.”
Albert Cole, Proprietor
Albert Cole Consultants
The contaminated land analysis conducted by Normec DETS provided conclusive evidence that the hydraulic fluid spill had been cleaned to a high standard. The results showed that the gravel pathway did not require replacement, as no residual contamination was detected. Additionally, the tests confirmed the absence of other types of contamination, ensuring the pathway was entirely safe for future use. This outcome not only alleviated the client’s concerns but also prevented unnecessary additional costs and delays in the project’s completion.
Normec DETS’ expertise in geotechnical and contaminated land analysis played a pivotal role in resolving a potentially costly issue for the new housing development in Elephant & Castle. By providing thorough and reliable testing, we helped Albert Cole Consultants and their client maintain project timelines and uphold the quality of the development, ensuring a successful handover without further complications.
