Understanding Leaching Environmental Assessment Framework (LEAF)
In 2016 the Department of Environment Regulation (DER) in Western Australia released an Environmental Standard on leachate testing. The document provides a comprehensive approach to leachate testing in order to assess potentially harmful chemical constituents that may be leaching from solid waste derived materials. LEAF testing is therefore more ideal for this type of assessment because it provides a more rigorous and more relevant approach to the currently used TCLP/ASLP methodology.

“Samples should be sealed and transported to the laboratory as soon as practicable, using suitable cooling aids (preferably ice bricks or in a refrigerated container) to ensure samples start cooling as soon as possible, and they should be stored in a refrigerator (≤6°C) until analysis.”

After participating for the first time last November in the national Asbestos Awareness Month and hosting Blue Lamington Drive morning teas in our Perth and Sydney laboratories as part of raising funds for the cause, Envirolab Group is proud to announce that we are recipients of the national 2015 ‘Betty Awards” for the category, ‘Business or Corporate’.

In situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) is a process used to treat different contaminants, primarily chlorinated solvents and petroleum hydrocarbons on site. However, all oxidisable Organics can also be targeted.

PFAS (e.g. PFOA/PFOS) are an emerging class of contaminants in Australia. Although manufacturing was phased out in 2002, the persistence of PFAS in the environment has become a significant concern in recent years as more research has become available to regulators. In 2016, Envirolab Group has commenced testing for PFAS.

By visiting Envirolab Sydney, local scouts group gained insight into how a lab works, equipment involved in environment testing and how to conduct a hands-on investigation.