with Joshua Campbell, B.Sc Senior Environmental Consultant
Canada’s unique landscapes are undergoing continuous development, with crucial infrastructure projects shaping the country's future. However, alongside progress lies the responsibility to protect the environment. Joshua Campbell, a Senior Environmental Technician at MBC Environmental Services in Alberta works to ensure that infrastructure development coexists with responsible environmental management and outlines the critical role senior environmental technicians play in Alberta's infrastructure projects. He explains the essential equipment they utilize, from direct reading instruments to drones and remote sensing technologies.
He says “Each project is unique and requires specific tools to ensure that the environmental team is able to answer the questions asked of us. Accuracy and efficiency can be achieved with the proper selection of tools for the job. That would include current calibration and maintenance. We also need to stay informed about changes in legislation and detection limits, whilst making sure all projects are completed on time and exceed expectations.”
Alberta's diverse landscapes and the varying nature of infrastructure projects necessitate a flexible approach to environmental testing. Senior technicians must possess a comprehensive understanding of the available equipment and their functionalities to ensure they deploy the right tools for the task at hand.
Here's a breakdown of some key equipment categories Josh and his team commonly use for environmental testing in Alberta:
Water Quality Meters: These portable devices are vital for measuring various parameters in water bodies, including pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, and turbidity. Selecting the appropriate meter depends on the specific water quality parameters required for testing, such as monitoring for potential construction site runoff impacts on nearby streams.
Air Samplers: These instruments collect air samples for direct reading analysis or future analysis of pollutants like dust particles, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and greenhouse gases. Choosing the right air sampler involves considering the type of pollutant being monitored and the desired sampling duration. Factors like project location, proximity to potential emission sources, and prevailing wind patterns also influence equipment selection.
Noise Monitors: Machining and/or Construction activities can generate significant noise pollution. Senior technicians use noise monitors to measure sound levels and to evaluate compliance with provincial noise regulations. When selecting a noise monitor, factors like the duration of monitoring, the need for real-time data collection, and the specific noise sources (e.g., blasting, heavy machinery) must be considered.
Remote Sensing Technologies: Employing drones or satellites for aerial surveys and inspections to map vegetation cover, identify potential environmental concerns over a large area, or track wildlife patterns.
Josh is quick to point out that “the key to good environmental testing isn't just about having fancy gadgets; it's also about making sure our tools are on point and giving us correct information. We need to make sure our tools can be trusted via calibration and proper maintenance.” Calibration involves comparing the instrument's readings to those of a certified reference standard with known measurement values. Regular calibration is essential for maintaining data integrity.
Key Considerations for Effective Calibration:
Frequency: Calibration frequency varies depending on the equipment type, its usage intensity, and manufacturer recommendations. More sensitive instruments or those used frequently may require more frequent calibration.
Documentation: Maintaining meticulous records of calibration procedures, dates, and results is crucial. This documentation serves as auditable proof of the equipment's functioning and ensures data credibility.
Traceability: Calibration certificates should link the reference standards used back to national or international metrology institutes, establishing a clear chain of traceability for the measurements.
Finally, to ensure accurate readings Josh notes the importance of ongoing maintenance. “Just like a car needs regular tune-ups, environmental testing gear needs TLC too. That's why our team creates custom maintenance plans for each piece of equipment. We are continually making sure everything is working correctly to deliver the best results on the job.” Regular maintenance is vital for preventing equipment malfunctions and ensuring optimal performance during environmental testing. These plans may include:
Routine cleaning and inspection to identify potential issues like clogged filters or damaged components.
Performance checks to verify the instrument's accuracy and functionality between calibrations.
Proper storage in appropriate environmental conditions to prevent damage from extreme temperatures or humidity.
Expert environmental technicians are made through experience and when equipped with the latest technology, are well-prepared to complete projects nationwide. In Alberta, Josh and his team ensure that their infrastructure projects contribute to a vibrant and sustainable future for the province.