Efficient Reporting and High Quality Data Delivery
Challenge
When an energy company planned to decommission and demolish one of their power plants and its associated outbuildings and equipment, the company prioritized a Regulated Materials Assessment (RMA) to minimize and control liability, promote recycling where possible and meet the state’s Department of Natural Resources requirements for the legal demolition and disposal of the power plant’s site structures and construction materials.
Solution
TRC worked with the energy company client and a historical abatement contractor to provide a comprehensive RMA and final report to help prepare for the decommissioning and demolition of plant structures and the recycling and disposal of construction materials.
The RMA included:
- Historical Document Review
- RMA Sampling Plan Preparation
- Hazardous Materials Inventory
- Focused RMA Inspection/Non-Destructive Sampling
- Post Shutdown Comprehensive Inspection/Destructive Sampling
- Final Pre-Demolition RMA Report
Our inspection staff surveyed and tested readily accessible materials that would likely be disturbed during the selective demolition required for decommissioning of power plant units 5 & 6. The initial survey was generally of a “non-destructive” nature; however, in anticipation of demolition, limited exploratory destructive sampling with approval and/or assistance of the client’s representatives was conducted as part of the overall scope. Materials associated with energized or operational equipment, concealed within equipment components, were identified, categorized and initially presumed to contain regulated or hazardous materials. Upon shutdown of the power plant units 5 & 6 in the summer of 2024, more comprehensive sampling at units 5 & 6 was performed.
Results
TRC achieved reporting efficiencies and delivered higher-quality data sets to the client using our customizable, cloud-based data collection application for mobile devices (tablets). This app enabled our staff to record survey locations, observations, photographs, and sample information in real time. Pre-populated forms, automated workflows, and cloud-based mobile uploads of text, voice notes, videos, and photos enhanced data quality and communication. Real-time data validation and error flagging reduced return visits and shortened project timelines.