COPC

COPC

Chemical of Potential Concern / Contaminant of Potential Concern

A Chemical of Potential Concern (COPC), also referred to as a Contaminant of Potential Concern, is a substance identified during an environmental site assessment that may pose a risk to human health or the environment. In contaminated land investigations, COPCs are identified based on historical land use, site activities, previous investigations, and potential contamination sources to determine which substances require further assessment, sampling, or laboratory testing.

Key Components

• Contaminant Identification: Identifies potentially harmful substances such as heavy metals, hydrocarbons, pesticides, asbestos, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that may be present in soil, groundwater, or soil vapour.

• Site History & Investigation: Reviews historical land uses, industrial activities, environmental records, and previous investigations to identify potential contamination sources.

• Sampling & Analysis: Establishes which chemicals should be tested during a Preliminary Site Investigation (PSI) or Detailed Site Investigation (DSI), using appropriate sampling methods and laboratory analysis.

• Risk Assessment: Evaluates identified contaminants against relevant environmental assessment criteria to determine whether further investigation, risk assessment, or remediation is required.

Identifying COPCs is a critical step in contaminated land assessment and management, helping environmental consultants develop targeted investigation strategies, assess potential risks, and determine appropriate remediation requirements to protect human health, the environment, and future land use.

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Need Expert Advice on Contaminated Land?

Identifying Chemicals of Potential Concern (COPCs) is an important first step in understanding and managing potential site contamination. CARAS provides specialist contaminated land advisory and remediation management services, helping property owners, developers and project stakeholders navigate site investigations, environmental risks, regulatory requirements and remediation works.

Learn more about our Contaminated Land Advisory & Remediation Services.

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