EP 1110-1-24
15 Dec 00
2-3. Engineering Controls.
a. This document also considers engineering controls. Engineering controls either limit the
public's access to a site or limit the public's exposure to the residual contamination that remains on a site
to an acceptable level. Engineering controls can take on many forms and are often developed to meet
the specific conditions of a site. Engineering controls are most effective when implemented in concert
with other institutional controls, rather than as stand-alone mechanisms.
b. When using engineering controls to limit the public's exposure to contaminants, the current
land use of the area around the contaminated site must be considered. For example, if the property is
surrounded by residential areas, schools, or playgrounds, or if the property is frequented by the public,
the potential for exposure and adverse consequences is increased and therefore a higher level of access
control would be necessary. Examples of engineering controls that have historically been effective in
limiting access are fences, signs, and soil caps. Appendix C provides information on the strengths and
limitations of these types of engineering controls.
c. Engineering controls protect against inadvertent access or exposure to the hazards associated
with a site. They have the advantage of being passive, i.e., once they are in place they do not require
human interaction to provide notice or protection (other than to maintain the integrity of the control).
Another advantage of engineering controls is that they provide a direct deterrent to those who are the
most likely to come into contact with a contaminated area by either limiting access or providing a
warning as to the nature of the dangers posed by a contaminated site. Engineering controls are an
important part of institutional control programs in areas where it is particularly important to protect
against inadvertent access, such as in areas where it can be expected that children will be in the vicinity.
Engineering controls require routine inspection and maintenance in order to remain effective.
2-4. Educational Controls.
a. The use of educational controls is usually a good strategy to manage and reduce residual risk
from public exposure to OE. An education program may take on many forms and may be easily
tailored to meet the specific needs of a site and the surrounding community. Examples of education
programs include formal education seminars and public notices.
b. Educating the local community is an extremely important part of any institutional control
program. Generally, if people are aware of and understand the hazards associated with an OE-
contaminated site, they will take the necessary precautions to avoid exposure. Education programs can
be tailored to meet the specific needs of a particular audience (e.g., local homeowners, school children,
regulators, developers, etc.) and can be performed as often as necessary to educate those that are at
greatest risk for exposure to OE. Educational efforts constitute a stand-along institutional control, but
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