How Hydrogeological Consultants Do Groundwater Risk Assessments

Hydrogeological risk assessments – more commonly referred to as HA – are used by hydrogeological consultants to assess a site. Certain aspects of the site, such as contamination risks, its hydrogeology, geology, and geochemistry, are all observed and taken into consideration. Throughout the inspection, hydrogeological consultants systematically sift through this checklist in order to determine whether there is any existing groundwater contamination and any associated issues with this. The hydrogeological consultants may also suggest whether certain activities may pose a risk in increasing the contamination level of any body of groundwater.

How do they work?

Hydrogeological consultants carry out their assessments in phases, as many other similar professions do. The specific phases are tailored depending on the scope and severity of the potential groundwater contamination or any other risks. First of all, a model of the site’s hydrogeological skeleton is formed in order to encapsulate an idea of the groundwater flow. Following this, the hydrogeological consultants will begin fieldwork to iron out any potentially problematic areas, and also to clarify the structure of the groundwater flow. Following this, all data is reported back, including structural analysis and conclusions reached. In between each phase, risk assessments are carried out, identifying problems and contamination risks as the inspection goes along.

At the most basic level, hydrogeological consultants should be aiming to analyze and note down a range of aspects. This includes assessing the aquifer properties, the paths, rates and flow of groundwater, as well as an analysis of the contamination’s concentration and direction – both current and predicted.

What do they achieve?

Hydrogeological consultants can achieve a number of things through their groundwater risk assessment. For one, undergoing such inspections frequently helps to preserve optimal levels of groundwater quality. This is key for the environment, as groundwater quality is already decreasing due to significant human impact; identify any contamination risks, their causes and solutions as soon as possible enables said risks to be minimized and prevented in the future. This will be better for the environment and humans alike, so it’s a cause well worth taking seriously. In the end, hydrogeological consultants are able to map out a multifaceted picture of a body of groundwater, helping to identify any risks to the nearby community and beyond if needed.

If you need a friendly team of consultants to help advise you and your company on hydrogeological risk assessments or any similar matters, then don’t hesitate to get in touch with G3SoilWorks. We can provide reliable, knowledgeable and detailed advice on a number of geological assessments and processes to boost your project’s efficiency. Get in touch with us.