Which media are typically sampled during Phase II ESA?

• A. Air emissions only
• B. Soil and groundwater only
• C. Soil, groundwater, and possibly building materials
• D. Vegetation and wildlife

Answer: (C)

Phase II ESA focuses on confirming whether contamination identified in Phase I is actually present and determining how far it has spread. The media most commonly sampled are soil and groundwater because these are the primary pathways through which contaminants meet the environment and potential receptors. If there’s a building on the site, sampling building materials is often included to check for hazardous substances like asbestos or lead-based paint that could affect renovations or redevelopment. Vegetation and wildlife aren’t typically the primary media for Phase II, and air emissions sampling isn’t a standard media unless there’s a specific reason to investigate air-related exposure. So, soil, groundwater, and possibly building materials best captures the usual scope of Phase II sampling.