Environmental Background
PCBs were detected in bottom-sediment samples collected during routine maintenance of three (3) new above ground storage tanks at a facility owned by a large utility company client. Based on these results, the client conducted PCB sampling at 72 sites in 2008 where PCB issues had been previously addressed under an Administrative Order on Consent (AOC) with U.S. EPA Region III. The sampling results indicated the possibility of PCB re-impacts at 36 of the 72 sites. More recently, AGES performed additional PCB delineation data to more accurately assess the potential liabilities. In 2011, AGES was contracted to develop a costs database and develop defensible costs for these liabilities.
Development of an Environmental Cost Database System
AGES assisted in developing a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) and scope of work for each site with the level of detail required for cost estimation and remediation planning. Based on the defined WBS, a customized database was developed by AGES to allow for efficient capture, storage, processing, and reporting of cost data. The cost database was populated by a PCB specialist consultant (AGES) and specialist PCB remediation contractors. Costs for up to three remedial options were developed for each task in the program (more than 60,000 data elements). Upon completion, sensitivity analysis was performed to compare proposed costs at the task, operational, building structure, and site levels to check for data consistency. The data was then exported to a probabilistic model for further assessment.
Special Project Features
1.) Developed a defensible approach that allowed our client to comply with Sarbanes-Oxley requirements for projecting potential cost liability.
2.) Development of a customized database to allow the collection, storage, processing, and reporting of cost data.
