Standardization News

A new ASTM International standard (D8408/D8408M) will help those developing long-term monitoring plans for vapor mitigation systems that prevent intrusion of hazardous gases into buildings. 

Contaminated soil, groundwater, sewers, and laterals all generate hazardous gases. A vacuum or depression system below a building slab can mitigate these gases from entering the building, thus protecting inhabitants. ASTM International member Lorne Everett notes that it is critical that a depressurization system establish and maintain a protective vacuum under the entire slab footprint of a building. 

“Vapor intrusion of homes, businesses, and warehouses is one of the fastest-growing human health issues in environmental risk assessment,” says Everett. “This standard will provide the framework for the long-term monitoring of VI mitigation systems to demonstrate over time that the occupants of the building are protected from hazardous vapors entering the building.”

ASTM’s soil and rock committee (D18) developed the new standard. All interested parties are encouraged to join the committee in its standards developing activities. Everett says that vadose zone characterization and remediation experts are particularly invited.  

Everett says that the new standard will be useful to many different entities, including federal and state environmental regulatory agencies, community support groups, gas stations and oil companies, dry cleaners, solver suppliers and recyclers, and others. 

To purchase standards, contact ASTM International customer relations (tel +1.877.909.ASTM; sales@astm.org).

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