A Remedial Action Plan (RAP) is a comprehensive document that provides the steps and activities that need to be taken to address specific environmental contamination or degradation issues at a specific Site. The RAP provides a general roadmap for the cleanup process, and outlines the steps and activities that need to be taken to clean up a site, mitigate harm to human health or the environment, and prevent further contamination. The RAP may include site assessment, characterization, risk evaluation, selection of a cleanup strategy, as well as design, implementation, and monitoring of remedial action.
A Remedial Action Plan typically includes the following steps:
- Site Assessment and Characterization: involves collecting data and information about the site including the site’s environmental and geologic conditions, the type and extent of contamination, the sources of contamination, and the potential risk to human health and the environment.
- Risk Assessment and Evaluation: This involves evaluating the potential health and environmental risks posed by the contamination, taking into account the type and extent of the contamination, the receptors (e.g. people, wildlife, surface water) that may be affected, and the pathways by which contamination may spread.
- Goal Setting: This involves establishing specific goals for the cleanup, taking into account the risks identified in the risk assessment and the desired end-use of the site.
- Alternative Analysis: Identifying and evaluating a range of potential cleanup options, taking into consideration technical feasibility, cost, effectiveness, and potential impacts.
- Selection of Remedial Alternative: Choosing the best course of action based on the results of the alternative analysis.
- Design and Implementation: Developing detailed plans and designs for implementing the selected cleanup option, including any necessary permits and approvals.
- Monitoring and Review: Monitoring the progress of the cleanup and regularly reviewing updated data as necessary, including testing and sampling to ensure that the cleanup is effective and the site is safe for its intended use.
- Closure and Long-Term Stewardship: Certification that the cleanup has successful met the goals established in the RAP and implementing ongoing measures to prevent recontamination and ensure the long-term protection of human health and the environment.
The goal of the RAP is to effectively address contamination. Minimize risk to human health and the environment, and restore the site to a safe and useful condition.