RI/FS

Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study (RI/FS)

USA

A process that occurs at a Superfund site before remediation begins. The remedial investigation (RI) is a method of collecting data that helps determine the:

• Affected site's condition.

• Nature of the hazard.

• Risk to human health and the environment.

• Treatability of the contamination by evaluating the performance and cost of treatment technologies being considered.

The feasibility study (FS) is designed to develop, screen and evaluate alternative remedial actions.

The RI and FS occur at the same time. The RI/FS process includes the following phases:

• Scoping.

• Site characterization.

• Developing and screening alternatives.

• Treatability investigations.

• Detailed analysis.