Attachment VIII - Standard Operating Procedures.pdf

SOP 002 – Site Access and Utility Clearance Page 1 of 3

1.0 Introduction

This Volpe SOP identifies and describes the procedures, protocols, controls, and requirements for accessing a site and performing utility clearance. Before mobilizing to a site for any investigation, this SOP should be consulted to ensure that proper permissions have been obtained. Additionally, utility clearance should be performed in accordance with this SOP prior to conducting any subsurface investigations.

2.0 Definitions

1. Call-before-you-dig (811) services – private, not-for-profit call centers that collect information about upcoming excavation projects and notifies the appropriate utility companies in the area of excavation. Utility companies, or their contractors, mark their utility lines once notified by the service. Dig safe serves Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont. Connecticut is served by Call Before You Dig. Other states have their own call centers and should be looked up and contacted for projects located outside of this region. 811 is the national call-before-you-dig number.

2. Excavation – any activities that occurs in the subsurface, including but not limited to digging, trenching, removing soil, drilling, or coring.

3. Utility – any public or privately owned equipment that carries or supports services such as electricity, telecommunications, gas, water, sewage, and steam. Utilities can be located above or below ground, and includes service lines, poles/towers, and tanks.

3.0 Equipment

1. Site plans, maps, and drawings

2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

3. Site-specific Health and Safety Plan (HASP)

4. Marking paint, flags, and stakes

5. Field Notebook

6. Colored pencils and drafting materials

7. Camera

Standard Operation Procedure (SOP) Prepared: J. Klaybor

Title: Site Access and Utility Clearance Reviewed: C. Fry

No: 002 Ver. 1.0 Date: 01/09/23 Approval: M. Heimgartner

SOP 002 – Site Access and Utility Clearance Page 2 of 3

4.0 Procedures

4.1 Site Access

1. Initiate contact with the property owner or authorized property owner’s representative (property owner) of a site at least 30 days prior to any site visit, including site reconnaissance, drilling, sampling, or remediation activities.

2. Begin with a phone call to the property owner. State your name, affiliation, and the visit’s objective, scope, and schedule. Notify them that the phone call will be followed up with a certification letter that will be mailed to their address that requires their signature to provide site access. Confirm their preferred U.S. Postal or electronic mailing address.

3. Prepare and send an access agreement letter that describes the objective, scope, and schedule of the visit as well as a signature page for the property owner to sign. If the letter is being sent by mail, include a prepaid return envelope.

4. Call the property owner if the letter is not signed and returned within two weeks of its expected return to follow up with them.

5. If the property owner is unwilling to sign the access agreement, a court order may be required directing the property owner to grant reasonable access to the property and the court may proceed in the action in a summary manner.

6. Scan and save a copy of the signed agreement in the project file.

7. At least two weeks before mobilizing to the site, call the property owner to remind them of the project schedule and plans.

4.2 Utility Clearance

8. Gather any available site plans or as-built drawings that may show the location of site utilities.

9. Visit the site to pre-mark all areas where excavations are to occur. Use white paint (pink in snowy terrain) to mark each boundary and write “Volpe” in paint inside the boundary. Look around for any signs of buried or overhead utilities and record them in the field notebook. Plan out where equipment will be mobilized and operated within the site to identify any potential equipment mobility issues.

10. If private utilities, such as fuel lines, light poles, and private water lines are expected to be present at the site, contact a private utility location service and coordinate their visit to the site.

11. Contact the appropriate call-before-you-dig service at least 72 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) before the proposed excavation by calling 811 or using the service’s website. Record the ticket information. Tickets typically expire 30 – 60 days after being issued, so do not contact the service too early and be sure to renew the ticket if work extends outside of this timeframe. Utility companies will mark out their lines within the areas that have been pre-marked.

12. Mobilize to the site to perform the work. Photograph all markings and review them with the contractor that will be performing the excavation. Discuss safety around utilities during the safety tailgate meeting. Excavation machinery should not work within 18 inches of any markings. Vacuum excavation or hand tools may be used within 18 inches. Additionally, keep equipment 20 feet away from overhead lines. Markings should use the following color scheme:

• Red – Electric power lines, cables, conduit, and lighting cables

• Yellow – Gas, oil, steam, or gaseous materials

SOP 002 – Site Access and Utility Clearance Page 3 of 3

• Orange – Communication, alarm or signal lines, cables, or conduit

• Blue – Potable water

• Green – Sewers and drain lines

• Purple – Reclaimed water, irrigation, and slurry lines

• Pink – Temporary survey markings

• White – Proposed excavation

13. It is advantageous to draw the public and private utility locations on a scaled site plan (using colored pencils that match the color code listed above) to facilitate future subsurface intrusion work.

14. Conduct the excavation, being aware of all utility markings. Dig carefully and have a spotter guide the equipment operator when machinery is used around markings. If an unmarked utility is encountered, stop work and notify the call-before-you-dig service.

15. If an unmarked utility is encountered and damaged stop work immediately. Call 911 if it is an emergency involving danger to life, health, or property, including gas line breakages. For non-emergencies, secure the area and contact the facility owner, whose contact information should be on-hand. If you are unsure who the utility belongs to, call 811.

16. When the excavation is complete, backfill any utilities that have been exposed and removes all utility markings.

5.0 Quality Assurance and Control (QA/QC)

The Volpe Field Staff are responsible for ensuring that site access permission is obtained prior to all site visits and for ensuring that sufficient utility clearance, even if initiated by the contractor, has been performed with in accordance with this SOP.

6.0 References

Dig Safe. (2015). Excavator Manual: A Guide to Safe Excavation Practices in Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont.

SOP 007 – Test Pit Exploration Page 1 of 3

This Volpe SOP identifies and describes the procedure for excavating soil to allow for a visual inspection of the soil and subsurface characteristics Test pit exploration is useful for identification of buried waste material, direct soil horizon observations, historical fill investigations, and other environmental investigation activities. Soil samples may be obtained while performing test pit exploration; however, direct push drilling methods are preferred if shallow soil contamination exists, reproducible sampling is needed, or if the water table beneath the site is shallow. A competent person, as defined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), must be onsite due to health and safety hazards associated with test pit exploration.

2.0 Definitions

1. Excavator – Machine used to excavate soil, for example a backhoe. When selecting the size and type of machine, consider the size of the planned test pit, the objectives for the exploration, and any physical constraints of the site

2. PPE – Personal Protective Equipment

3. Test Pit – Small excavation, typically advanced with the goal of making environmental observations or collecting samples

3.0 Equipment

1. PPE for the appropriate hazard level as described in the site-specific Health & Safety Plan (HASP)

2. HASP, Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP), site drawings, and documents related to the sampling investigation

3. Indelible marker or pen

4. Field notebook

5. Excavator or appropriate digging equipment

6. Marking flags

7. Plastic sheeting

8. Measuring tape

9. Photoionization Detector (PID) meter (if required)

10. Camera

11. Decontamination equipment

12. Sampling equipment (if required): sample cooler with ice and sample containers (appropriate number, type, and preservatives), chain of custody, bucket, trowel, coring device

Standard Operation Procedure (SOP) Prepared: H. Talbot- Wendlandt

Title: Test Pit Exploration Reviewed: C. Fry

No: 007 Ver. 1.0 Date: 01/09/23 Approval: M. Heimgartner

SOP 007 – Test Pit Exploration Page 2 of 3

4.0 Procedures

1. Prior to mobilization, inspect all field equipment to ensure that all components are present, in good condition, and protected from potential sources of contamination.

2. Review documents pertaining to the sampling investigation including but not limited to the HASP, SAP, and site drawings to prepare for the excavation event.

3. Coordinate site access and perform utility clearance in accordance with Volpe SOP-002.

4. Once onsite, put on PPE as described in the site-specific HASP.

5. Mark the area to be sampled and clear away any debris on the surface such as rocks, leaves, and other non-soil materials. Recommended dimensions for a test pit are 3 ft. wide and 1 ft. deeper than deepest desired sampling location. Trenches deeper than 4 ft. must be sloped or protected by a shoring system; review OSHA regulations to ensure compliance.

6. Lay plastic sheeting next to the test pit exploration location to collect soil that will be removed from the test pit.

7. Using the excavator, dig the trench to specified dimensions. A PID may be used to screen the soil as it is removed

(Volpe SOP-004). Perform air monitoring per Volpe SOP-022 (if required) as the test pit exploration is in progress.

8. Use the measuring tape to collect a final measurement of the pit dimensions. Record the test pit unique ID, soil description, test pit dimensions/depth (survey may be required), waste debris description (if encountered), estimated quantity of waste debris (if encountered), depth to the top and bottom of waste debris (if encountered), sample collection information (number, type, location, etc.), and pit coordinates in the field notebook.

9. Photograph the test pit location and removed soil material. Ensure to include photographs that include context of other site features so that the pit location can be replicated in the future if needed. Record all information in the field notebook in accordance with Volpe SOP-001.

10. If taking samples, it is recommended to begin with the deepest sample location and move up through the pit. Use a tool (e.g. trowel) to scrape 1-2 inches off of the vertical face where sampling is planned, making sure to expose fresh material and to clear off any material that has fallen from above.

11. Use the appropriate tool (e.g. trowel, coring device) to take soil sample at the desired depth. Containerize the sample in the manner appropriate for the analysis to be performed in accordance with the SAP. Handle and ship the sample in accordance with Volpe SOP-005, Volpe SOP-009, and Volpe SOP-019.

12. Use the measuring tape to collect a final measurement of the sample depth. Record the test pit unique ID, soil description, test pit dimensions/depth (survey may be required), waste debris description (if encountered), estimated quantity of waste debris (if encountered), depth to the top and bottom of waste debris (if encountered), sample collection information (number, type, location, etc.), and pit coordinates in the field notebook. Photograph the sample location. Ensure to include photographs that include context of other site features so that the sample location can be replicated in the future if needed.

13. Decontaminate the tools used per Volpe SOP-018. If additional soil samples are to be collected from the test pit, repeat steps 9 through 13.

14. Backfill the hole with material that was collected on the plastic sheeting, or per state-specific backfilling requirements.

15. Roll up the plastic sheeting such that any remaining material in it is trapped. The plastic sheeting can be managed with the Investigation-Derived Waste (IDW) per Volpe SOP-020.

SOP 007 – Test Pit Exploration Page 3 of 3

5.0 Quality Assurance and Control (QA/QC)

The Volpe field staff onsite for sample collection is responsible for QA/QC, which includes ensuring that all steps of the SOP are correctly performed and that the sample collection is performed in line with the site-specific sampling plan.

6.0 Limitations and Precautions

This SOP does not address all of the hazards and procedures associated with subsurface investigations. SOPs regarding site access, utility clearance, equipment decontamination, and sample handling procedures should be consulted prior to excavating a test pit.

7.0 References

Environmental Protection Agency: Environmental Response Team, 2018. Standard Operating Procedure 2012: Soil Sampling.

SOP 010 – Direct Push Technique Drilling Page 1 of 3

This Volpe SOP identifies and describes the procedure, protocols, control, and requirements for sampling subsurface soil using direct push technique (DPT) drilling technology. DPT drilling is primarily used to investigate shallow to intermediate depths (<50 feet [ft] below grade surface [bgs]). Soil cores are collected and retrieved using a liner (e.g., MacroCore sampler) inside a hollow barrel (e.g., probe rod). State-specific subsurface investigation pertaining to site remediation and drilling permits should be reviewed prior to planning the work. This SOP does not discuss using DPT technology to install a monitoring well.

2.0 Definitions

1. BGS – below ground surface

2. Catcher/retainer – end piece inserted into the drive point of the sampler to help retain loose material in the sampler

3. DPT – direct push technique; uses direct force to advance a sampling device

4. Drill string – the extension rods and sampler

5. Extension rods – hollow steel rods used to advance and retrieve sampler

6. Impact head – part of the direct-push rig which transfers energy to the drill string

7. Push depth – depth bgs of the sampler

8. Sampler – device used to collect subsurface soil

3.0 Equipment

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for the appropriate hazard level as described in the site-specific Health & Safety Plan (HASP)

2. HASP, Sampling/Analysis Plan (SAP), site drawings, and documents related to the sampling investigation

3. Field notebook and indelible marker or pen

4. Volpe Monitoring Well Construction and Boring Log

5. Marking flags

6. Photoionization Detector (PID)

7. Camera

8. Tape measure

9. Polyethylene sheeting

10. Sampler, extension rods, catcher, and liners

11. Sample containers (appropriate number, type, and preservatives) with labels and chain of custody; sample cooler with ice

Standard Operation Procedure (SOP) Prepared: H. Talbot- Wendlandt

Title: Direct Push Technique Drilling Reviewed: C. Fry

No: 010 Ver. 1.0 Date: 01/09/23 Approval: M. Heimgartner

SOP 010 – Direct Push Technique Drilling Page 2 of 3

12. Appropriate sampling materials, which may include: metal spoons and bowls, trowel, and/or other tools

13. Decontamination equipment, including paper towels, detergent, and water

4.0 Procedures

1. Prior to mobilization, inspect all field equipment to ensure that all components are present, in good condition, and protected from potential sources of contamination.

2. Review documents pertaining to the sampling investigation including but not limited to the HASP, SAP, and site drawings to prepare for the sampling event. Determine the sampling technique(s) that will be deployed and the equipment that will be used.

3. Coordinate site access and perform utility clearance in accordance with Volpe SOP-002.

4. Once onsite, don (put on) the appropriate PPE per the site-specific HASP.

5. Review each proposed borehole location with the drill operator and mark locations with flags. Take photographs of the site and of all borehole locations with any nearby utility markings. Discuss the need to hand clear select borehole locations with the drill operator.

6. Inspect the drilling equipment and any contractor-supplied materials with the drill operator. Ensure that sample liners are kept in a sealed or clean environment and that they are an appropriate material. Disposable polymer liners are acceptable for most purposes, though Teflon® or stainless steel liners may be required when the study objectives require very low reporting levels or if there are unusual contaminants of concern. Some of these liners (e.g., stainless steel liners) are not disposable and should be decontaminated between each use.

7. If necessary, install safety cones, caution tape, and/or barriers around the drilling location to secure the work area.

Identify a safe location and place polyethylene sheeting down within the work area.

8. The drill operator will move the drill rig to the drilling location. The drill operator should stabilize and level the rig if possible, and they should always adjust the rig slowly so that the rig does not shift or contact any overhead utilities/structures. The drill operator will assemble the sampler, attach the liner to the cutting head, insert the liner into the outer tube, and screw the cutting head to the outer tube. Then attach the impact head to the top of the outer tube. Once depth is reached, the drill operator will retract the drill string with the soil cores and turn them over to the field personnel.

9. When the soil cores are received, be sure to note and maintain the proper orientation by writing on the liner with a permanent marker. Be sure to keep soil cores out of direct sunlight, rain, or excess ambient air temperatures while performing soil sample collection and soil logging.

10. Collect soil samples from the core, following directions in the sampling plan. Be sure to record the time of sampling, ease of drilling, length of recovered core, push depth, soil lithology, and any other notable characteristics in the Volpe Monitoring Well Construction and Boring Log (SOP Attachment 1) per Volpe SOP-003.

11. If the borehole is to be abandoned, consult planning documents and state regulations for specifications. Borings may be converted into monitoring wells (see Volpe SOP-013 for monitoring well installation procedures), but it is not recommended as well installation can be difficult in DPT-drilled holes.

12. Decontaminate all equipment used. Any small tools or equipment should be decontaminated in accordance with Volpe SOP-018. The cutting shoe and rod may be cleaned with high-pressure water or steam.

13. Repeat steps 5-12 for all additional drilling locations.

14. Drill cuttings and excess sample material shall be handled as IDW per Volpe SOP-020 investigation-derived waste and managed in accordance with the SAP.

SOP 010 – Direct Push Technique Drilling Page 3 of 3

5.0 Quality Assurance and Control (QA/QC)

The Volpe field staff onsite for sample collection are responsible for QA/QC, which includes ensuring that all steps of the SOP are correctly performed and that the sample collection is performed in line with the site-specific sampling plan.

6.0 Limitations and Precautions

SOPs regarding site access, utility clearance, equipment decontamination, and specific sampling procedures should be consulted prior to sampling. State-specific subsurface investigation pertaining to site remediation, drilling permits, and monitoring well installation should be reviewed prior to planning the work.

7.0 References

Environmental Protection Agency: Region 4 Laboratory Services and Applied Science Division, 2020. Soil Sampling.

New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, 2022. Field Sampling Procedures Manual: Section 6.4.