Source-pathway-receptor pollution linkage

New information gathered from additional desk studies and any site investigation is then collated and used to provide more complete descriptions of the candidate source-pathway-receptor pollutant linkages identified in the Phase la report. Each linkage is considered separately and estimates are made of the extent and strength of the contaminant source, its connectivity to the receptor and the level of hazard that is presented to the receptor. Finally, a preliminary assessment is made of the potential harm that hazards may pose to the receptors. From this analysis it is likely that one or more pollutant linkages will be recognised as the... 

These source-pathway-receptor (SPR) linkages are commonly referred to as pollutant linkages. Guidance on the development of a CSM is contained in a variety of documents for example. Model Procedures for the Management of Land Contamination (Reference 14.29). 

The overall risk estimation should cover all the pollutant linkages identified, broken into site zones as appropriate. Details should be provided of source concentrations, with estimated confidence limits, the receptor characteristics and confirmation of the viability of the pollutant pathway. If generic guideline values are used, then their applicability should be supported. Clearly, full details need to be recorded of any models and data used to generate site-specific values for unacceptable risk, together with a commentary on assumptions that have been made in their application. 

Risks from contaminated land arise from pollutant linkages that present unacceptable risk to receptors. The purpose of risk management it to make changes that remove these unacceptable risks. This can be done in different ways the source of contamination may be removed or reduced the pathway by which contaminants reach the receptor may be broken or attenuated or the receptor can be removed or modified. 

Connected with the adoption of a risk-based methodology is the source-pathway-target or contaminant-pathway-receptor philosophy. This philosophy states that, in order for harm to have occurred, or for there to be a risk of harm occurring, contaminants must have been able to reach relevant receptors via specific environmental migration pathways. Where such a relationship exists between a contaminant, a pathway and a receptor at a site, a pollutant linkage is said to exist. 

Consultations with other appropriate bodies Review and summary of previous reports, with report references Outline conceptual model with nature and location of gas sources, migration pathways and receptors clearly identified Description of possible pollutant linkages for ground gas Identification of potentially unacceptable risks posed by ground gas, including criteria used to identify those risks Discussion of uncertainties and gaps in information Description and justification of next steps proposed at the site, e.g. carry out site investigation and quantitative risk assessment Yes D/No Yes D/No Yes D/No Yes D/No Yes n/No Yes D/No Yes D/No ... 

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