Step 4: Initial Site Classification

Suspect sites are classified using the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) National Classification System for Contaminated Sites (NCSCS) or the FCSAP Aquatic Sites Classification System (ASCS) to prioritize sites and determine eligibility for FCSAP funding. Completion of Step 4 is required to obtain FCSAP funding. If there is uncertainty as to whether or not a site poses a risk to human health or the environment, then further assess the site in Step 5. The ASCS should be used if the site is a water lot or meets the definition of an aquatic site.

How to prepare

• review the NCSCS and ASCS
• consider the data requirements of an ecological risk assessment (ERA) in all sampling plans

What to do

• complete:
  • NCSCS or ASCS spreadsheets:
    • assign a classification score by answering a series of questions related to contaminant characteristics, exposure pathways, and receptors
  • Phase I and II environmental site assessments (ESAs), if not already completed
• provide more detail on existing site conditions to accurately map the contaminant pathways
• if an aquatic component to the site has been identified, apply the Framework for Addressing and Managing Aquatic Contaminated Sites Under the FCSAP to assist in targeting and identifying further sampling and data gaps in the aquatic environment.

Federal contaminated sites: Online resources