NJDEP Changes Soil Remediation Standards for 19 Compounds
On September 18, 2017, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) updated the Residential and Non-Residential Soil Remediation Standards (RSRS and NRSRS) for 19 contaminants. These updates reflect revisions to the toxicity data for these contaminants as contained in the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) database, on which the soil remediation standards are based. The updated soil remediation standards are operative as of September 18, 2017.
The changes affect several common Poly Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) compounds, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and one (1) metal. Overall the remediation standards for several PAHs increased and are now less restrictive, and one (1) metal (Thallium) is now no longer regulated. However, the remediation standards for several Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) did decrease, and are now more restrictive. A summary of the changes was provided by the NJDEP in a table located here:
https://www.nj.gov/dep/srp/guidance/srra/srwmp_implementing.pdf
These changes could significantly affect sites currently undergoing remediation, or sites that have deed notices or Soil Remedial Action Permits in place for soil contamination. If you are concerned how your site may be affected, please feel free to contact our office for assistance.
Thomas Burke
Project Manager, JM Sorge, Inc.
