Esc: How It Differs From Current State Of The Practice

Problems with the current state of the practice in site characterization for both geotechnical and<br>environmental projects are abundant. The Expedited Site Characterization (ESC) strategy<br>developed by DOE provides a means for a major improvement in the statusquo. Unlike previous<br>EPA and DOE site characterization practices, ESC has elevated the experienced professional and<br>their quality of work, and re-identified hydrology and geology as critically important for site<br>characterization.<br>The ESC process can be applied to site characterization for either geotechnical investigations or<br>environmental assessment and remediation. The general ESC model as presented should be the<br>basis for planning any site characterization work. However, the model may be modified based<br>upon the specific project size, objectives, and the project’s status when beginning the ESC effort.<br>The purpose of this paper is to highlight the key elements of the ESC process and show how it is<br>a large improvement to the current state of the practice.