Quick response facilitates cleanup at airport
In 2014, jet fuel was identified in an airport’s stormwater-sewer pumphouse, leading to discovery of a release from the airport’s hydrant line. Because of our experience successfully investigating and remediating releases for the airline in other locations, Barr was hired to immediately mobilize a team to determine potential exposure risks and the extent of impacts and to guide development of an investigation and remediation strategy.
Our preliminary investigation included assessing contaminant migration pathways, evaluating jet fuel in an airport-dewatering sump and a nearby elevator shaft, conducting indoor-air screening and risk assessment, and evaluating the integrity of adjacent sewers. We then performed a phased investigation involving sump sampling, installation of soil borings and groundwater monitoring wells, and evaluation of vapor intrusion and indoor air quality. Response actions included installation of horizontal and vertical product-recovery wells, pressure grouting and sealing of exterior walls where infiltration was observed, sump-pump modifications, and a soil-vapor-extraction pilot test.
Throughout the project, our activities were coordinated with the airport to minimize impacts on routine operations. The site received a certificate of completion of remedial activities from state regulators in 2021. Barr continues to assist the client with ongoing operations-and-maintenance activities.