VAPOR INTRUSION 101

Vapors from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) located in the soil and/or groundwater can enter buildings through cracks, joints, and other opens in buildings creating possible health hazards for the occupants. One of many tasks a young professional may be required to learn and perform is a vapor intrusion or “soil gas” investigation. This primer on vapor intrusion investigations will provide a basic understanding of what vapors are, where they may originate, and the various ways in which you may conduct an investigation. We will discuss how to interpret the results of the investigation and ways to possibly mitigate the VOCs if they pose a potential health risk.