Preliminary Assessment/Site Inspection (PA/SI) Training introduces the Superfund site assessment process, focusing on the preliminary assessment and site inspection phases. Based on key provisions of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) and the response process established by the National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan (NCP), the course guides participants through conducting remedial preliminary assessments (PAs) and site inspections (SIs) at CERCLA-regulated sites, including identifying potential threats that may warrant a removal action. Topics include 1) procedures and considerations when performing a remedial PA, including assessing appropriateness, planning and execution, preparing a preliminary Hazard Ranking System (HRS) score, and documenting results for site decision-making; (2) detailed steps for conducting a remedial SI, including addressing health and safety considerations for field activities, establishing data quality objectives and developing sampling strategies for HRS scoring, validating data, and preparing a final report to support decision-making; and (3) relevant EPA guidance, policies, and resources, such as the basic structure and scoring factors of the HRS, and using EPA’s Quickscore tool for site investigations. 

Course Objectives:

• Explain the circumstances under which site assessments are performed, including when, where, why, and how they are conducted under CERCLA authorities. 
• Prepare for, conduct, and report the findings of a remedial PA. 
• Determine the need for, conduct, and document the results of a remedial SI. 
• Identify and use guidance, software, and other tools to effectively meet the requirements for conducting a remedial PA and SI. 

The PA/SI course is recommended for EPA, state and tribal personnel responsible for compiling, drafting, and reviewing documentation records and packages for preliminary PA, SI, and HRS submissions for sites proposed for the NPL. 

The course is also open to current U.S. EPA contractors that perform site investigation work. U.S. EPA contractors will need to provide approval from their EPA COCOR to Barbara Charris, EPA CEC Program Manager (charris.barbara@epa.gov) to attend the training. THIS COURSE IS NOT OPEN TO ACADEMIA, NON-EPA CONSULTANTS, NON-EPA CONTRACTORS OR ANY PRIVATE ENTITIES.

It is recommended that you take the Hazard Ranking System training course prior to the Preliminary Assessment and Site Inspection training course.

Room rate includes complimentary All American Breakfast Buffet in the Terrace Restaurant. Check-in time is 3PM. If rooms are available prior to this time, the hotel will be happy to accommodate an early check-in based on availability. Check-out time is Noon. Guests checking out later than Noon may be subject to a charge equal to one half the daily room rate. Reservations may be cancelled 24 hours prior to arrival without penalty. One night’s room and tax will be charged if a reservation is cancelled less than 24 hours to arrival. The Hyatt offers numerous amenities such as a pool and athletic club. Complimentary high-speed Internet access is available in the lobby area. WI-FI is available in all the guest rooms - a 24 hour pass can be purchased for $9.99 a day. Self parking for hotel guests is available in an attached garage for $14.50 per day with in-and-out privileges. They also offer Valet Parking for $18 per day with in-and-out privileges. The hotel is about 5 miles/10 minute drive from the EPA Region 7 offices.