Location: Berks County, PA
In response to a heating oil spill in the basement of the residence, Brickhouse conducted an initial inspection of the spill area and the shallow dug well that supplied water to the home. The product was found to have only impacted near surface soils in the basement. However, oil was observed floating on the surface of the water in the well. We evaluated the overall impacts, developed a cleanup plan, and worked with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP) to pursue a written release of cleanup liability through Pennsylvania’s ACT 2 program. Product was removed from the water surface using passive absorbent booms, and the water quality was monitored over a year-long period to ensure impacts didn’t migrate beyond the well. To address residual odors in the basement, we designed and installed an impermeable cap with a vacuum-powered ventilation system. The final remedial report demonstrated attainment of the statewide health standard for heating oil compounds in soil and groundwater. PADEP subsequently issued a written release of cleanup liability that the homeowners can use to document that the spill was properly remediated. The liability release can also be transferred to future purchasers of the property.
