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Guide for Characterization of Sites Contaminated with Energetic Materials
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SUMMARY
Explosives represent a threat to human health and to the surrounding envi-
ronment. They can be spread in the environment all along their life cycle from
production to use in training to disposal at the end of their service life. The
characterization of potentially contaminated ranges should be conducted; this
guide is dedicated to that specific purpose. The unusual properties of explosives
and their by-products require special treatment for the effective and safe char-
acterization of explosives-contaminated sites. Characterization of explosives-
contaminated ranges must include all aspects of a standard sampling and analysis
plan, along with an appropriate amount of quality assurance and quality control.
This protocol has been written to cover specific and critical aspects related to the
characterization of explosives-contaminated sites. It will serve as a reference to
assist the effective characterization of these sites by both minimizing the asso-
ciated cost and risk and optimizing the information gained.
Site characterization is not intended to hinder the operational activities of
defense forces, but rather is meant to assess the environmental impact of such
activities. It is hoped that this activity will lead to the implementation of appro-
priate remedial action and safety precautions during testing and training exer-
cises, thereby lessening the potential for future environmental impacts.
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