Why is contaminated land good practice important?
If contamination is likely to be encountered the construction contract should define the methods of dealing with it. The contract will usually refer to the guidance issued by statutory authorities on how to deal with contamination. Figure: Stakeholder groups involved in contaminated land Ground contamination may result in the following problems: • Health and safety impacts on staff and surrounding community through exposure to contaminants. • Liability for the cost of disposal or remediation of contamination (depending on contract conditions). • Liability for costs arising from unexpected spreading or making existing contamination worse. • Delays to the programme through unexpected or accidental contamination. • Pollution of groundwater and surface water courses. • Pollution of surrounding land. There are two key requirements in managing ground contamination: • Do not cause it or spread it. • Deal with it appropriately.
