What is analysed

documents, records, photographs, video, claims and case materials;

the location of the object, possible sources of impact and the sequence of events;

laboratory test reports and the correctness of sampling;

consistency of the conclusions with the source data and methods;

possible restoration and land reclamation measures.

Result

The work results in an expert opinion, review or written specialist position with conclusions that may be used in negotiations, a claim or court proceedings.

Important: if laboratory tests are required, their cost and timeframe are usually calculated separately according to the parameters, number of samples and object.

When complaints concern odour, smoke or dust, it is important to examine the source, conditions of spread and timing of the impact. An odour sensation alone or a single measurement is usually insufficient to describe the whole situation.

Subject of examination

Air on the site and in the premises examined
Dust, smoke, odours and suspected sources
Ventilation conditions, weather and equipment operating patterns

Sample questions for the expert

What data confirms an impact at a particular place and time?
Do the selected parameters correspond to the suspected source?
Can episodes of impact be compared with the operation of equipment or another source?
Are the reports and measurement plan sufficient to support the earlier conclusions?

The final questions are formulated according to the objects and circumstances of the particular task.

What to prepare

The address, site or premises plan and source locations
A log of episodes with dates, times, duration and conditions
Measurement reports stating the methods and conditions
Information on ventilation, process operating conditions and weather conditions

How the examination is conducted

A list of hypotheses and parameters to be checked is drawn up. Measurements, background conditions, direction of spread and source operating patterns are compared. Where the impact varies, the representativeness of measurement times is assessed separately.

Scope and limitations

Examination of environmental impact does not establish a medical diagnosis or replace assessment of harm to health. The measurements needed, access to the object and laboratory work are determined before work begins.

What the deliverable records

The conclusions distinguish confirmed facts, probable explanations and circumstances requiring additional measurements for verification.

Air, odours and emissions

When it is used