Humber/Ontario Real Estate Course 4 Exam Practice

Which of the following correctly describes the purpose of Phase 1 in an environmental site assessment?

1. Phase 1 involves testing to determine the scope of environmental problems.

2. The purpose of Phase 1 is to verify sufficient reasons to suspect contamination.

3. A Phase 1 assessment includes visual inspection, testing, reporting, and remedial steps.

4. Phase 4 addresses remediation costs associated with earlier identified problems.

5. Phase 3 involves extensive soil and groundwater testing to confirm contamination.

6. Phase 2 includes comprehensive sampling and laboratory analysis.

The correct answer is: The purpose of Phase 1 is to verify sufficient reasons to suspect contamination.

The correct choice highlights that the purpose of Phase 1 in an environmental site assessment is to verify sufficient reasons to suspect contamination. This phase is primarily focused on gathering existing data and information about the site’s history, possible environmental hazards, and conditions that could suggest contamination issues. During this phase, assessors will conduct a thorough review of historical land use, examine any records of hazardous materials, and may include interviews with previous owners or occupants to ascertain uses that could have led to environmental concerns. The goal is not to conduct physical testing or remediation but rather to identify any potential red flags that warrant further investigation. The other options touch on aspects of the environmental assessment process, but they don't accurately represent the fundamental objective of Phase 1, which is to establish a baseline understanding of potential environmental issues rather than to confirm or quantify them through testing or remediation.