ISO 15800:2003
(Main)Soil quality — Characterization of soil with respect to human exposure
Soil quality — Characterization of soil with respect to human exposure
ISO 15800:2003 gives guidelines on the kind and extent of soil characterization necessary for the evaluation of human exposure to substances that can cause adverse effects. The possibilities of standardizing the calculations used for the assessment of human exposure are not included in ISO 15800:2003. The information needed for evaluation of human exposure to contaminants leached from soil to surface and/or groundwater or transferred by runoff is not included in ISO 15800:2003. Aspects related to radioactivity and pathogens in soil and potential human exposure hereto are also not included in ISO 15800:2003.
Qualité du sol — Caractérisation des sols relative à l'exposition des personnes
L'ISO 15800:2004 spécifie les lignes directrices concernant la nature et l'étendue de la caractérisation des sols nécessaire à l'évaluation de l'exposition des personnes aux substances pouvant être à l'origine d'effets néfastes. L'ISO 15800:2004 ne prend pas en compte les possibilités de normalisation des calculs qui sont utilisés pour l'évaluation de l'exposition des personnes. En outre, l'ISO 15800:2004 ne tient pas compte des informations nécessaires à l'évaluation de l'exposition des personnes relative à des produits contaminants lixiviés depuis le sol vers les eaux de surface et/ou souterraines ou transférées par écoulement. De la même manière, elle ne prend pas en compte les aspects liés à la radioactivité et aux bactéries pathogènes présentes dans le sol et à l'exposition potentielle des personnes qui en découle.
Kakovost tal – Karakterizacija tal v zvezi z izpostavljenostjo ljudi
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INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 15800
First edition
2003-12-15
Soil quality — Characterization of soil
with respect to human exposure
Qualité du sol — Caractérisation des sols relative à l'exposition des
personnes
Reference number
ISO 15800:2003(E)
©
ISO 2003
---------------------- Page: 1 ----------------------
ISO 15800:2003(E)
PDF disclaimer
This PDF file may contain embedded typefaces. In accordance with Adobe's licensing policy, this file may be printed or viewed but
shall not be edited unless the typefaces which are embedded are licensed to and installed on the computer performing the editing. In
downloading this file, parties accept therein the responsibility of not infringing Adobe's licensing policy. The ISO Central Secretariat
accepts no liability in this area.
Adobe is a trademark of Adobe Systems Incorporated.
Details of the software products used to create this PDF file can be found in the General Info relative to the file; the PDF-creation
parameters were optimized for printing. Every care has been taken to ensure that the file is suitable for use by ISO member bodies. In
the unlikely event that a problem relating to it is found, please inform the Central Secretariat at the address given below.
© ISO 2003
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means,
electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and microfilm, without permission in writing from either ISO at the address below or
ISO's member body in the country of the requester.
ISO copyright office
Case postale 56 • CH-1211 Geneva 20
Tel. + 41 22 749 01 11
Fax + 41 22 749 09 47
E-mail copyright@iso.org
Web www.iso.org
Published in Switzerland
ii © ISO 2003 – All rights reserved
---------------------- Page: 2 ----------------------
ISO 15800:2003(E)
Contents Page
Foreword. iv
Introduction . v
1 Scope. 1
2 Normative references. 1
3 Terms and definitions. 1
4 Characterization of soil and sites with respect to human exposure . 4
4.1 Introduction. 4
4.2 Exposure routes. 5
5 Characterization of soil and sites. 8
5.1 Relevant soil processes and parameters . 8
5.2 Sampling. 10
5.3 Site characterization. 10
5.4 Characterization of soil . 11
5.5 Characterization of contamination. 15
6 Data handling, evaluation and quality . 18
Annex A (informative) Exposure routes depending on actual site use . 20
Annex B (informative) Industries and related polluting substances. 21
Bibliography . 22
© ISO 2003 – All rights reserved iii
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ISO 15800:2003(E)
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards bodies
(ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out through ISO
technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical committee has been
established has the right to be represented on that committee. International organizations, governmental and
non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work. ISO collaborates closely with the
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of electrotechnical standardization.
International Standards are drafted in accordance with the rules given in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
The main task of technical committees is to prepare International Standards. Draft International Standards
adopted by the technical committees are circulated to the member bodies for voting. Publication as an
International Standard requires approval by at least 75 % of the member bodies casting a vote.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
ISO 15800 was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 190, Soil quality, Subcommittee SC 7, Soil and site
assessment.
iv © ISO 2003 – All rights reserved
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ISO 15800:2003(E)
Introduction
Characterizations of soils and sites relative to human exposure are performed all over the world. They are
often planned and conducted by consultancy companies and expert organizations. Data from these
characterizations are used in the assessment of human exposure. These characterizations are, furthermore,
used for decision-making by companies, individuals and local and national authorities as well as for
recommendations and regulations issued by national and international authorities.
The assessment of potential human health effects from exposure may be used for:
classification of contaminated sites;
recommendations regarding remediation of sites, soils and soil materials, e.g. priority of remediation;
decisions regarding the future/planned use of contaminated sites;
decisions regarding the disposal/treatment/reuse of contaminated or remediated soil and/or soil material.
The data needed for evaluations of human exposure are to some extent dependent on the way in which the
exposure is assessed, i.e. calculations may be based on scenarios each requiring different data.
The extent of investigations necessary for the assessment of human exposure may vary depending on the
level of contamination and the areal use in question. In some cases the assessment of potential human health
exposure may be based solely on information regarding the substances present in the soil and their
concentrations and the relevant soil parameters. In other cases more detailed information on the availability of
the substance will be necessary. This information will depend on the type and concentration of the substance,
the relevant soil parameters and the type of exposure relevant for the areal use in question. Furthermore, the
sampling method and strategies may depend on the areal use and the possible exposure patterns.
Due to the large expenditure necessary for both private landowners and public funds set aside for the
remediation of contaminated land and the general movement of capital and industry/business corporations,
International Standards on the characterization of contaminated soil, especially with regard to human health,
are in great demand.
International Standards in this complex field will support the creation of a common scientific basis for the
exchange of data, development of knowledge and sound commercial evaluation.
© ISO 2003 – All rights reserved v
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INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 15800:2003(E)
Soil quality — Characterization of soil with respect to human
exposure
1 Scope
This International Standard gives guidelines on the kind and extent of soil characterization necessary for the
evaluation of human exposure to substances that can cause adverse effects.
The possibilities of standardizing the calculations used for the assessment of human exposure are not
included in this International Standard.
The information needed for evaluation of human exposure to contaminants leached from soil to surface and/or
groundwater or transferred by runoff is not included in this International Standard. Aspects related to
radioactivity and pathogens in soil and potential human exposure hereto are also not included in this
International Standard.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced
document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 10381-1, Soil quality — Sampling — Part 1: Guidance on the design of sampling programmes
ISO 10381-5, Soil quality — Sampling — Part 5: Guidance on investigation of soil contamination of urban and
industrial sites
ISO 11074 (all parts), Soil quality — Vocabulary
ISO 15175, Soil quality — Characterization of soil related to groundwater protection
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this International Standard, the terms and definitions given in ISO 11074 (all parts),
ISO 11259:1998 and the following apply.
3.1
bioavailability
degree to which substances present in a soil matrix may be absorbed or metabolized in the human body
NOTE In this context the definition refers to availability in the human body.
3.2
biodegradation
breakdown of a substance or chemical by living organisms, usually bacteria
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ISO 15800:2003(E)
3.3
contaminant
substance or agent present in the soil as a result of human activity
cf. pollutant (3.10)
NOTE There is no assumption in this definition that harm results from the presence of the contaminant.
3.4
data quality objectives
statement of the required detection limits, accuracy, reproducibility and repeatability of the required analytical
and other data
NOTE Generic data quality objectives can sometimes be set at national level. Data quality objectives can also
embrace an amount of data required for an area of land (or part of a site) to enable sound comparison with generic
guidelines or standards or for a site-specific or material-specific estimation of risk.
3.5
exposure
reception of a dose of a substance
3.6
exposure assessment
process of establishing whether, and how much, exposure will occur between a receptor and a contaminated
source
3.7
exposure pathway
course a substance takes from a source to a receptor
NOTE Each exposure pathway links a source to a receptor.
3.8
groundwater
any water, except capillary water, beneath the land surface or beneath the bed of any stream, lake reservoir
or other body of surface water, whatever may be the geological formation or structure in which such water
stands, flows, percolates or otherwise moves
3.9
hazard
inherently dangerous quality of a substance, procedure or event
3.10
pollutant
those substances which due to their properties, amount or concentration cause impacts on (i.e. harm to) the
soil functions or soil use
[ISO 11074-1:1996]
3.11
receptor
potentially exposed person
3.12
risk
combination of the probability of occurrence of harm and the severity of that harm
[ISO/IEC Guide 51:1999]
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ISO 15800:2003(E)
3.13
risk analysis
use of available information to identify hazard and to estimate the risk
3.14
risk assessment
process of risk analysis and risk characterization
3.15
risk characterization
evaluation and conclusion based on the hazard identification and the exposure and effect assessment
3.16
site
defined area, in this context often contaminated by human activities
3.17
site characterization
collection of data providing appropriate information for exposure assessment
3.18
soil
upper layer of the Earth's crust composed of mineral particles, organic matter, water, air and organisms
[ISO 11074-1:1996]
3.19
soil function
function of soil which is significant to man and the environment
[ISO 11074-4:1998]
3.20
source
soil or soil component from which a substance or hazardous agent is released for potential human exposure
3.21
subsoil
material underlying the topsoil and overlying the solid (parent) rock beneath
NOTE All or much of the original rock structure has usually been obliterated by pedogenic processes.
3.22
surface water
lakes, ponds, impounding reservoirs, springs, flowing (streaming) waters, estuaries, wetlands, inlets, canals,
oceans within the relevant territorial limits, and all other bodies of water, natural or artificial, inland or coastal,
fresh or salt
3.23
topsoil
upper part of a natural soil which is generally dark-coloured and has a higher content of organic substances
and nutrient when compared to the subsoil below
[ISO 11074-4:1998]
3.24
trace element
element in low concentration in soil material
NOTE A trace element can be essential at low concentration but harmful at higher concentration.
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ISO 15800:2003(E)
4 Characterization of soil and sites with respect to human exposure
4.1 Introduction
Characterizations of soils and sites with respect to human exposure are usually performed as a part of a risk
assessment.
In this context, a contaminated site is an area defined e.g. by property boundaries and contaminated by past
or present human activities. In many countries, contaminated sites are registered publicly as a consequence
of specific legislation.
A risk assessment comprises the following elements:
a hazard identification;
a dose-response assessment;
an exposure assessment;
and, based on the above, a risk characterization.
Risk and exposure assessments are usually performed on the basis of one or more defined scenarios, e.g. in
order to obtain general criteria related to the scenario, or on the basis of the data connected with a specific
site.
This International Standard includes the element exposure assessment in relation to human exposure.
An exposure assessment is the process by which the intensity, frequency and duration of human exposure to
a contaminant are estimated, and it comprises:
source identification and characterization,
identification of exposure routes,
identification of relevant receptors/target groups,
and based on this: the actual exposure assessment.
Exposure assessments can be carried out in order to assess either the total exposure of a given receptor
group (e.g. the population at risk) or the additional exposure from a given source or activity. In this
International Standard, only the additional risk from soil contamination is addressed.
For the assessment of possible effects on human health, an analysis of the exposure routes is a prerequisite.
For this purpose, the actual and planned use of the site may be included in the assessment, as this may
define which exposure routes are of relevance. If a new use is planned, a renewed assessment shall be
carried out. Average-, worst- or reasonable-case exposure can be evaluated, and depending on the purpose
of the exposure assessment, the data needs can differ for these situations.
If receptors are not directly exposed to a contaminant, exposure assessment needs to consider the various
ways by which indirect exposure might occur, and its significance. A contaminant can also undergo
transformations through biological, chemical or physical means that might affect its toxicity, availability and
mobility. The risk depends on both the concentration of a contaminant and the route of exposure (skin contact,
inhalation, ingestion, etc.). For this reason, analysis of the changes that the contaminant undergoes as a
result of these transformations and phase transfer processes prior to exposure is an important part of
exposure assessment.
Characterization of soil and sites with respect to exposure routes and quantification of the actual exposure is
described in 4.2. Characterization of soil and sites with respect to source identification and characterization is
described in 5.3, where reference to other relevant International Standards is also made.
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ISO 15800:2003(E)
4.2 Exposure routes
4.2.1 General
Human exposure from soil contamination may occur through different media.
The following routes of exposure directly from the soil exist:
soil ingestion;
dermal contact.
Airborne exposure due to volatilization comprises
inhalation and ingestion of fugitive dust,
elevation of outdoor concentrations,
intrusion of vapours in buildings.
Exposure through the food chain comprises
consumption of plants, including crops and cultivated plants, wild plants and fungi,
consumption of animals and animal products, including wild animals.
Exposure routes connected to surface and groundwater are not included in this International Standard. These
routes also include exposure due to showering, dishwashing and other domestic use of water, ingestion of fish
and of piped water polluted by contaminated soil or groundwater surrounding the pipe. It should be noted that
these routes can be very relevant pathways in the overall exposure pattern.
Transfer of contaminants from soil to surface waters is highly site-specific and depends on run-off volume,
peak flowrate, soil erodability, slope length and steepness, sorption capacity of the soil, type of vegetation
cover, and distance to receiving body. In practice, surface water pollution is usually monitored via direct
measurement. With regard to exposure in connection with groundwater, ISO 15175 shall be followed.
The actual exposure routes depend on the site use.
Playgrounds and private gardens (kitchen and ornamental) can be considered to cause the highest
degree of human exposure during use. This use may imply close (skin) contact to the soil, ingestion of
soil, ingestion of plants grown in the soil (and of soil on these plants) as well as inhalation of dust and
vapours.
Agricultural zones can be the principal exposure route through the food chain. The size of these areas
means that, except when the farmer and his/her family consume part of production, crops are widely
distributed to a large population. On the other hand, if the soil is the only source of contamination, the
consumption of goods produced in the contaminated area represents only a very small part of those
consumed by the population (through dilution with other product sources);
Parks may be used in ways exposing humans to inhalation of dust and vapours, skin contact with
soil/dust and, to a lesser degree than gardens, ingestion of soil;
Sports facilities mainly give rise to exposure via inhalation of soil/dust and skin contact with soil/dust;
Consolidated surfaces such as parking lots, roads, etc. give rise to exposure via inhalation of vapours and
from accumulation of fine dust;
Buildings (homes, schools, kindergartens, offices, industry and shops) give rise to exposure via vapours;
soil carried into the buildings may cause inhalation and/or ingestion of dust.
Industry can comprise consolidated and unconsolidated areas, park-like areas and buildings. The
information needed for evaluation of human exposure in these types of areas have been listed above.
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ISO 15800:2003(E)
The actual exposure time can differ between similar site uses, due to differences in climate and actual site use
patterns (e.g. number of days per week the site is in use).
An overview of relevant exposure routes for each site use is given in Annex A (informative).
In the following, the characterization of soils with respect to the different exposure routes is described. The
uptake patterns and thus the importance of the different exposure routes will vary depending on the properties
of the contaminants in question.
4.2.2 Soil ingestion
Soil ingestion by children happens through ingestion of dust, sucking of dirty fingers and by actual eating of
soil. Distinction should be made between inadvertent and accidental intake and deliberate long-term persistent
behaviour (Pica behaviour). In general Pica behaviour should be regarded as a special case, not necessarily
relevant for the actual assessment.
NOTE Some young children go through a short period of exploratory soil ingestion.
Adults mainly ingest soil as dust, e.g. in connection with gardening, and as soil on non-cleaned vegetables
and fruit. In the case of the characterization of a specific site, the actual behaviour should be taken into
account.
To assess soil ingestion, the contaminant content usually taken into account is that resulting from extraction
with strong extractants [this content is known as (pseudo)total for metals]. In addition, the hypothesis of total
absorption of the contaminant in the digestive track is often made. A few animal experiments carried out show
that this hypothesis is not always relevant, at least for metals. Methods (employing slightly weaker extractants)
used for the description of uptake of metals from toys have also been used for this type of assessment. The
potential for absorption of a given contaminant can vary with the soil particle size, and information on
particle-size distribution may be relevant.
NOTE (Pseudo)total concentration is defined by the actual method of analysis, including the specific extraction
method utilized, see 5.5.
4.2.3 Dermal contact
Skin contact with contaminated soil could be caused by dust reaching the skin through atmospheric deposition,
by playing or by working with the soil. It should be noted that there is a distinction between skin contact in e.g.
a private home and workplace contact, since the latter is usually regulated by health and safety at work. It
should be noted that work-related matters are not covered by this International Standard.
For an assessment of this route of exposure, the information needed is the (pseudo)total concentration of
each substance in the soil. For calculations of the efficiency of uptake through skin, once the soil particles
have reached this surface, the parameters determining the bioavailability may be useful. In evaluation of soil
contaminants in connection with skin contact, distinction should be made between contaminants that can be
absorbed through the skin and substances potentially causing other effects, such as rashes from hyper-
sensitivity.
4.2.4 Inhalation of dust
The actual importance of dust inhalation (and digestion) as an exposure route is connected to the actual site
use [e.g. motorcycle scrambling and soccer fields are site uses where dust inhalation (and digestion) can play
a major role]. Climatic conditions and vegetation cover also influence the actual exposure.
Calculations pertaining to uptake via dust can be based on general models for dust in air. For a detailed
assessment of the uptake of contaminants from inhaled dust, the parameters determining the bioavailability
can be useful. The concentration level usually varies with particle size, the smallest particles usually
containing the highest concentrations and having the longest exposure times. This should be taken into
account if only measurements of the average concentrations are available.
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ISO 15800:2003(E)
4.2.5 Inhalation of vapours (outdoors)
Assessment of the inhalation of vapours should primarily be based on measurements of soil air concentrations,
preferably by passive sampling methods. If this is not possible or otherwise not relevant (e.g. in the case of
planned activities that would alter the distance between the contaminated zone and the receptors, for example
by inserting venting systems), calculations of air flux from the contaminated soil volume to surface can be
performed. The relevant soil parameters for these calculations would be (together with information on the
depth of the vapour dose zone and variations therein):
concentration;
porosity;
water content;
bulk density;
organic carbon fraction.
Relevant substance parameters such as water and organic carbon partition coefficients, Henry's constant, and
vapour pressure should also be determined. Porosity and water content are also relevant, together with soil
type for the characterization of soil air concentrations at depths less than actually measured, and thus of the
soil contaminants' contribution to outdoor air concentrations.
4.2.6 Inhalation of vapours (indoors)
Inhalation of vapours indoors can be assessed on the same basis as outdoor vapours, plus data relevant for
the estimation of diffusion and advective (crack) transport through the relevant floor construction. These data
may include information on pressure differences between the contaminated area in the soil and the target
indoor area due to e.g. temperature differences, wind, changes in atmospheric pressure and the ventilation
pattern of the building.
4.2.7 Intake via plants
The amount of contaminants taken up and accumulated by plants depends on the physico-chemical
characteristics of the contaminant, the type of soil (including soil characteristics), the type and part of the plant
that is consumed, and even climate. It should be noted that plants are contaminated by both root uptake and
deposition on the leaves, etc. Intake by humans also depends on how a plant is treated before consumption
(washing, peeling, cooking, packaging, etc.). Care should be taken in using general models for the
assessment of plant uptake in a specific case. Results of experimental studies on accumulation by plants
should be used when available, if they have been obtained under conditions similar to those of the assessed
site.
It is important to be aware of the total exposure via plant uptake, taking local conditions into account and the
influence hereon of possible additional exposure caused by soil contamination.
For the assessment of the exposure of humans to organic compounds via plants, the relevant parameters
may include the following: organic carbon fraction, w ; content (fraction) of clay particles, w ; cation
OC CM
exchange capacity of the soil, CEC; soil pH; soil bulk density; soil water content; organic carbon partition
coefficient, K ; and redox potential.
OC
Uptake of metals can be evaluated based on e.g. (pseudo)total concentration, clay content, organic carbon
content, CEC, distribution coefficients and pH. Plant uptake can also (at least for some metals) be estimated
via extraction tests utilizing dilute, non-complexing or organic complexing salts or diluted acids.
The importance of the different parameters mentioned varies not only with the soil, but also with the
vegetation and individual species and variety of plants.
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ISO 15800:2003(E)
4.2.8 Intake via animals
Intake by animals is usually mainly due to direct ingestion of soil from the surface layer or from soil adhering to
forage. To a lesser degree, it comes from consumption of fodder after plant uptake and accumulation. The
degree of accumulation of the contaminants by animals depends on the properties of the soil, the level of
contamination and other components of the diet.
5 Characterization of soil and sites
5.1 Relevant soil processes and parameters
During transport of contaminants in soil, the contaminants are affected by a number of physical or reactive
geochemical and biological processes, which may attenuate, concentrate, immobilize, liberate, degrade or
otherwise transform the contaminants. Since these transformations affect both contaminant concentration and
the route of exposure, information concerning the parameters governing these processes is important for the
exposure assessment. It should be noted that the relative importance of the different parameters for the
processes is not yet fully understood.
The potential processes involved in fate and transport of the contaminants in the soil depend on type of soil
and the type of contaminant, and include
sorption/desorption,
binding,
dispersion,
solubilization,
diffusion, including intraparticle diffusion,
complexation,
precipitation/dissolution,
evaporation,
chemical transformation,
photodegradation,
uptake by plants and other organisms,
biological transformations including microbial, soil animal and plant metabolism.
Fate and transport analysis does not normally
...
SLOVENSKI STANDARD
SIST ISO 15800:2006
01-december-2006
Kakovost tal – Karakterizacija tal v zvezi z izpostavljenostjo ljudi
Soil quality -- Characterization of soil with respect to human exposure
Qualité du sol -- Caractérisation des sols relative à l'exposition des personnes
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: ISO 15800:2003
ICS:
13.080.99 Drugi standardi v zvezi s Other standards related to
kakovostjo tal soil quality
SIST ISO 15800:2006 en
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.
---------------------- Page: 1 ----------------------
SIST ISO 15800:2006
---------------------- Page: 2 ----------------------
SIST ISO 15800:2006
INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 15800
First edition
2003-12-15
Soil quality — Characterization of soil
with respect to human exposure
Qualité du sol — Caractérisation des sols relative à l'exposition des
personnes
Reference number
ISO 15800:2003(E)
©
ISO 2003
---------------------- Page: 3 ----------------------
SIST ISO 15800:2006
ISO 15800:2003(E)
PDF disclaimer
This PDF file may contain embedded typefaces. In accordance with Adobe's licensing policy, this file may be printed or viewed but
shall not be edited unless the typefaces which are embedded are licensed to and installed on the computer performing the editing. In
downloading this file, parties accept therein the responsibility of not infringing Adobe's licensing policy. The ISO Central Secretariat
accepts no liability in this area.
Adobe is a trademark of Adobe Systems Incorporated.
Details of the software products used to create this PDF file can be found in the General Info relative to the file; the PDF-creation
parameters were optimized for printing. Every care has been taken to ensure that the file is suitable for use by ISO member bodies. In
the unlikely event that a problem relating to it is found, please inform the Central Secretariat at the address given below.
© ISO 2003
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means,
electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and microfilm, without permission in writing from either ISO at the address below or
ISO's member body in the country of the requester.
ISO copyright office
Case postale 56 • CH-1211 Geneva 20
Tel. + 41 22 749 01 11
Fax + 41 22 749 09 47
E-mail copyright@iso.org
Web www.iso.org
Published in Switzerland
ii © ISO 2003 – All rights reserved
---------------------- Page: 4 ----------------------
SIST ISO 15800:2006
ISO 15800:2003(E)
Contents Page
Foreword. iv
Introduction . v
1 Scope. 1
2 Normative references. 1
3 Terms and definitions. 1
4 Characterization of soil and sites with respect to human exposure . 4
4.1 Introduction. 4
4.2 Exposure routes. 5
5 Characterization of soil and sites. 8
5.1 Relevant soil processes and parameters . 8
5.2 Sampling. 10
5.3 Site characterization. 10
5.4 Characterization of soil . 11
5.5 Characterization of contamination. 15
6 Data handling, evaluation and quality . 18
Annex A (informative) Exposure routes depending on actual site use . 20
Annex B (informative) Industries and related polluting substances. 21
Bibliography . 22
© ISO 2003 – All rights reserved iii
---------------------- Page: 5 ----------------------
SIST ISO 15800:2006
ISO 15800:2003(E)
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards bodies
(ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out through ISO
technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical committee has been
established has the right to be represented on that committee. International organizations, governmental and
non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work. ISO collaborates closely with the
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of electrotechnical standardization.
International Standards are drafted in accordance with the rules given in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
The main task of technical committees is to prepare International Standards. Draft International Standards
adopted by the technical committees are circulated to the member bodies for voting. Publication as an
International Standard requires approval by at least 75 % of the member bodies casting a vote.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
ISO 15800 was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 190, Soil quality, Subcommittee SC 7, Soil and site
assessment.
iv © ISO 2003 – All rights reserved
---------------------- Page: 6 ----------------------
SIST ISO 15800:2006
ISO 15800:2003(E)
Introduction
Characterizations of soils and sites relative to human exposure are performed all over the world. They are
often planned and conducted by consultancy companies and expert organizations. Data from these
characterizations are used in the assessment of human exposure. These characterizations are, furthermore,
used for decision-making by companies, individuals and local and national authorities as well as for
recommendations and regulations issued by national and international authorities.
The assessment of potential human health effects from exposure may be used for:
classification of contaminated sites;
recommendations regarding remediation of sites, soils and soil materials, e.g. priority of remediation;
decisions regarding the future/planned use of contaminated sites;
decisions regarding the disposal/treatment/reuse of contaminated or remediated soil and/or soil material.
The data needed for evaluations of human exposure are to some extent dependent on the way in which the
exposure is assessed, i.e. calculations may be based on scenarios each requiring different data.
The extent of investigations necessary for the assessment of human exposure may vary depending on the
level of contamination and the areal use in question. In some cases the assessment of potential human health
exposure may be based solely on information regarding the substances present in the soil and their
concentrations and the relevant soil parameters. In other cases more detailed information on the availability of
the substance will be necessary. This information will depend on the type and concentration of the substance,
the relevant soil parameters and the type of exposure relevant for the areal use in question. Furthermore, the
sampling method and strategies may depend on the areal use and the possible exposure patterns.
Due to the large expenditure necessary for both private landowners and public funds set aside for the
remediation of contaminated land and the general movement of capital and industry/business corporations,
International Standards on the characterization of contaminated soil, especially with regard to human health,
are in great demand.
International Standards in this complex field will support the creation of a common scientific basis for the
exchange of data, development of knowledge and sound commercial evaluation.
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INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 15800:2003(E)
Soil quality — Characterization of soil with respect to human
exposure
1 Scope
This International Standard gives guidelines on the kind and extent of soil characterization necessary for the
evaluation of human exposure to substances that can cause adverse effects.
The possibilities of standardizing the calculations used for the assessment of human exposure are not
included in this International Standard.
The information needed for evaluation of human exposure to contaminants leached from soil to surface and/or
groundwater or transferred by runoff is not included in this International Standard. Aspects related to
radioactivity and pathogens in soil and potential human exposure hereto are also not included in this
International Standard.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced
document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 10381-1, Soil quality — Sampling — Part 1: Guidance on the design of sampling programmes
ISO 10381-5, Soil quality — Sampling — Part 5: Guidance on investigation of soil contamination of urban and
industrial sites
ISO 11074 (all parts), Soil quality — Vocabulary
ISO 15175, Soil quality — Characterization of soil related to groundwater protection
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this International Standard, the terms and definitions given in ISO 11074 (all parts),
ISO 11259:1998 and the following apply.
3.1
bioavailability
degree to which substances present in a soil matrix may be absorbed or metabolized in the human body
NOTE In this context the definition refers to availability in the human body.
3.2
biodegradation
breakdown of a substance or chemical by living organisms, usually bacteria
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3.3
contaminant
substance or agent present in the soil as a result of human activity
cf. pollutant (3.10)
NOTE There is no assumption in this definition that harm results from the presence of the contaminant.
3.4
data quality objectives
statement of the required detection limits, accuracy, reproducibility and repeatability of the required analytical
and other data
NOTE Generic data quality objectives can sometimes be set at national level. Data quality objectives can also
embrace an amount of data required for an area of land (or part of a site) to enable sound comparison with generic
guidelines or standards or for a site-specific or material-specific estimation of risk.
3.5
exposure
reception of a dose of a substance
3.6
exposure assessment
process of establishing whether, and how much, exposure will occur between a receptor and a contaminated
source
3.7
exposure pathway
course a substance takes from a source to a receptor
NOTE Each exposure pathway links a source to a receptor.
3.8
groundwater
any water, except capillary water, beneath the land surface or beneath the bed of any stream, lake reservoir
or other body of surface water, whatever may be the geological formation or structure in which such water
stands, flows, percolates or otherwise moves
3.9
hazard
inherently dangerous quality of a substance, procedure or event
3.10
pollutant
those substances which due to their properties, amount or concentration cause impacts on (i.e. harm to) the
soil functions or soil use
[ISO 11074-1:1996]
3.11
receptor
potentially exposed person
3.12
risk
combination of the probability of occurrence of harm and the severity of that harm
[ISO/IEC Guide 51:1999]
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3.13
risk analysis
use of available information to identify hazard and to estimate the risk
3.14
risk assessment
process of risk analysis and risk characterization
3.15
risk characterization
evaluation and conclusion based on the hazard identification and the exposure and effect assessment
3.16
site
defined area, in this context often contaminated by human activities
3.17
site characterization
collection of data providing appropriate information for exposure assessment
3.18
soil
upper layer of the Earth's crust composed of mineral particles, organic matter, water, air and organisms
[ISO 11074-1:1996]
3.19
soil function
function of soil which is significant to man and the environment
[ISO 11074-4:1998]
3.20
source
soil or soil component from which a substance or hazardous agent is released for potential human exposure
3.21
subsoil
material underlying the topsoil and overlying the solid (parent) rock beneath
NOTE All or much of the original rock structure has usually been obliterated by pedogenic processes.
3.22
surface water
lakes, ponds, impounding reservoirs, springs, flowing (streaming) waters, estuaries, wetlands, inlets, canals,
oceans within the relevant territorial limits, and all other bodies of water, natural or artificial, inland or coastal,
fresh or salt
3.23
topsoil
upper part of a natural soil which is generally dark-coloured and has a higher content of organic substances
and nutrient when compared to the subsoil below
[ISO 11074-4:1998]
3.24
trace element
element in low concentration in soil material
NOTE A trace element can be essential at low concentration but harmful at higher concentration.
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4 Characterization of soil and sites with respect to human exposure
4.1 Introduction
Characterizations of soils and sites with respect to human exposure are usually performed as a part of a risk
assessment.
In this context, a contaminated site is an area defined e.g. by property boundaries and contaminated by past
or present human activities. In many countries, contaminated sites are registered publicly as a consequence
of specific legislation.
A risk assessment comprises the following elements:
a hazard identification;
a dose-response assessment;
an exposure assessment;
and, based on the above, a risk characterization.
Risk and exposure assessments are usually performed on the basis of one or more defined scenarios, e.g. in
order to obtain general criteria related to the scenario, or on the basis of the data connected with a specific
site.
This International Standard includes the element exposure assessment in relation to human exposure.
An exposure assessment is the process by which the intensity, frequency and duration of human exposure to
a contaminant are estimated, and it comprises:
source identification and characterization,
identification of exposure routes,
identification of relevant receptors/target groups,
and based on this: the actual exposure assessment.
Exposure assessments can be carried out in order to assess either the total exposure of a given receptor
group (e.g. the population at risk) or the additional exposure from a given source or activity. In this
International Standard, only the additional risk from soil contamination is addressed.
For the assessment of possible effects on human health, an analysis of the exposure routes is a prerequisite.
For this purpose, the actual and planned use of the site may be included in the assessment, as this may
define which exposure routes are of relevance. If a new use is planned, a renewed assessment shall be
carried out. Average-, worst- or reasonable-case exposure can be evaluated, and depending on the purpose
of the exposure assessment, the data needs can differ for these situations.
If receptors are not directly exposed to a contaminant, exposure assessment needs to consider the various
ways by which indirect exposure might occur, and its significance. A contaminant can also undergo
transformations through biological, chemical or physical means that might affect its toxicity, availability and
mobility. The risk depends on both the concentration of a contaminant and the route of exposure (skin contact,
inhalation, ingestion, etc.). For this reason, analysis of the changes that the contaminant undergoes as a
result of these transformations and phase transfer processes prior to exposure is an important part of
exposure assessment.
Characterization of soil and sites with respect to exposure routes and quantification of the actual exposure is
described in 4.2. Characterization of soil and sites with respect to source identification and characterization is
described in 5.3, where reference to other relevant International Standards is also made.
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4.2 Exposure routes
4.2.1 General
Human exposure from soil contamination may occur through different media.
The following routes of exposure directly from the soil exist:
soil ingestion;
dermal contact.
Airborne exposure due to volatilization comprises
inhalation and ingestion of fugitive dust,
elevation of outdoor concentrations,
intrusion of vapours in buildings.
Exposure through the food chain comprises
consumption of plants, including crops and cultivated plants, wild plants and fungi,
consumption of animals and animal products, including wild animals.
Exposure routes connected to surface and groundwater are not included in this International Standard. These
routes also include exposure due to showering, dishwashing and other domestic use of water, ingestion of fish
and of piped water polluted by contaminated soil or groundwater surrounding the pipe. It should be noted that
these routes can be very relevant pathways in the overall exposure pattern.
Transfer of contaminants from soil to surface waters is highly site-specific and depends on run-off volume,
peak flowrate, soil erodability, slope length and steepness, sorption capacity of the soil, type of vegetation
cover, and distance to receiving body. In practice, surface water pollution is usually monitored via direct
measurement. With regard to exposure in connection with groundwater, ISO 15175 shall be followed.
The actual exposure routes depend on the site use.
Playgrounds and private gardens (kitchen and ornamental) can be considered to cause the highest
degree of human exposure during use. This use may imply close (skin) contact to the soil, ingestion of
soil, ingestion of plants grown in the soil (and of soil on these plants) as well as inhalation of dust and
vapours.
Agricultural zones can be the principal exposure route through the food chain. The size of these areas
means that, except when the farmer and his/her family consume part of production, crops are widely
distributed to a large population. On the other hand, if the soil is the only source of contamination, the
consumption of goods produced in the contaminated area represents only a very small part of those
consumed by the population (through dilution with other product sources);
Parks may be used in ways exposing humans to inhalation of dust and vapours, skin contact with
soil/dust and, to a lesser degree than gardens, ingestion of soil;
Sports facilities mainly give rise to exposure via inhalation of soil/dust and skin contact with soil/dust;
Consolidated surfaces such as parking lots, roads, etc. give rise to exposure via inhalation of vapours and
from accumulation of fine dust;
Buildings (homes, schools, kindergartens, offices, industry and shops) give rise to exposure via vapours;
soil carried into the buildings may cause inhalation and/or ingestion of dust.
Industry can comprise consolidated and unconsolidated areas, park-like areas and buildings. The
information needed for evaluation of human exposure in these types of areas have been listed above.
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The actual exposure time can differ between similar site uses, due to differences in climate and actual site use
patterns (e.g. number of days per week the site is in use).
An overview of relevant exposure routes for each site use is given in Annex A (informative).
In the following, the characterization of soils with respect to the different exposure routes is described. The
uptake patterns and thus the importance of the different exposure routes will vary depending on the properties
of the contaminants in question.
4.2.2 Soil ingestion
Soil ingestion by children happens through ingestion of dust, sucking of dirty fingers and by actual eating of
soil. Distinction should be made between inadvertent and accidental intake and deliberate long-term persistent
behaviour (Pica behaviour). In general Pica behaviour should be regarded as a special case, not necessarily
relevant for the actual assessment.
NOTE Some young children go through a short period of exploratory soil ingestion.
Adults mainly ingest soil as dust, e.g. in connection with gardening, and as soil on non-cleaned vegetables
and fruit. In the case of the characterization of a specific site, the actual behaviour should be taken into
account.
To assess soil ingestion, the contaminant content usually taken into account is that resulting from extraction
with strong extractants [this content is known as (pseudo)total for metals]. In addition, the hypothesis of total
absorption of the contaminant in the digestive track is often made. A few animal experiments carried out show
that this hypothesis is not always relevant, at least for metals. Methods (employing slightly weaker extractants)
used for the description of uptake of metals from toys have also been used for this type of assessment. The
potential for absorption of a given contaminant can vary with the soil particle size, and information on
particle-size distribution may be relevant.
NOTE (Pseudo)total concentration is defined by the actual method of analysis, including the specific extraction
method utilized, see 5.5.
4.2.3 Dermal contact
Skin contact with contaminated soil could be caused by dust reaching the skin through atmospheric deposition,
by playing or by working with the soil. It should be noted that there is a distinction between skin contact in e.g.
a private home and workplace contact, since the latter is usually regulated by health and safety at work. It
should be noted that work-related matters are not covered by this International Standard.
For an assessment of this route of exposure, the information needed is the (pseudo)total concentration of
each substance in the soil. For calculations of the efficiency of uptake through skin, once the soil particles
have reached this surface, the parameters determining the bioavailability may be useful. In evaluation of soil
contaminants in connection with skin contact, distinction should be made between contaminants that can be
absorbed through the skin and substances potentially causing other effects, such as rashes from hyper-
sensitivity.
4.2.4 Inhalation of dust
The actual importance of dust inhalation (and digestion) as an exposure route is connected to the actual site
use [e.g. motorcycle scrambling and soccer fields are site uses where dust inhalation (and digestion) can play
a major role]. Climatic conditions and vegetation cover also influence the actual exposure.
Calculations pertaining to uptake via dust can be based on general models for dust in air. For a detailed
assessment of the uptake of contaminants from inhaled dust, the parameters determining the bioavailability
can be useful. The concentration level usually varies with particle size, the smallest particles usually
containing the highest concentrations and having the longest exposure times. This should be taken into
account if only measurements of the average concentrations are available.
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4.2.5 Inhalation of vapours (outdoors)
Assessment of the inhalation of vapours should primarily be based on measurements of soil air concentrations,
preferably by passive sampling methods. If this is not possible or otherwise not relevant (e.g. in the case of
planned activities that would alter the distance between the contaminated zone and the receptors, for example
by inserting venting systems), calculations of air flux from the contaminated soil volume to surface can be
performed. The relevant soil parameters for these calculations would be (together with information on the
depth of the vapour dose zone and variations therein):
concentration;
porosity;
water content;
bulk density;
organic carbon fraction.
Relevant substance parameters such as water and organic carbon partition coefficients, Henry's constant, and
vapour pressure should also be determined. Porosity and water content are also relevant, together with soil
type for the characterization of soil air concentrations at depths less than actually measured, and thus of the
soil contaminants' contribution to outdoor air concentrations.
4.2.6 Inhalation of vapours (indoors)
Inhalation of vapours indoors can be assessed on the same basis as outdoor vapours, plus data relevant for
the estimation of diffusion and advective (crack) transport through the relevant floor construction. These data
may include information on pressure differences between the contaminated area in the soil and the target
indoor area due to e.g. temperature differences, wind, changes in atmospheric pressure and the ventilation
pattern of the building.
4.2.7 Intake via plants
The amount of contaminants taken up and accumulated by plants depends on the physico-chemical
characteristics of the contaminant, the type of soil (including soil characteristics), the type and part of the plant
that is consumed, and even climate. It should be noted that plants are contaminated by both root uptake and
deposition on the leaves, etc. Intake by humans also depends on how a plant is treated before consumption
(washing, peeling, cooking, packaging, etc.). Care should be taken in using general models for the
assessment of plant uptake in a specific case. Results of experimental studies on accumulation by plants
should be used when available, if they have been obtained under conditions similar to those of the assessed
site.
It is important to be aware of the total exposure via plant uptake, taking local conditions into account and the
influence hereon of possible additional exposure caused by soil contamination.
For the assessment of the exposure of humans to organic compounds via plants, the relevant parameters
may include the following: organic carbon fraction, w ; content (fraction) of clay particles, w ; cation
OC CM
exchange capacity of the soil, CEC; soil pH; soil bulk density; soil water content; organic carbon partition
coefficient, K ; and redox potential.
OC
Uptake of metals can be evaluated based on e.g. (pseudo)total concentration, clay content, organic carbon
content, CEC, distribution coefficients and pH. Plant uptake can also (at least for some metals) be estimated
via extraction tests utilizing dilute, non-complexing or organic complexing salts or diluted acids.
The importance of the different parameters mentioned varies not only with the soil, but also with the
vegetation and individual species and variety of plants.
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4.2.8 Intake via animals
Intake by animals is usually mainly due to direct ingestion of soil from the surface layer or from soil adhering to
forage. To a lesser degree, it comes from consumption of fodder after plant uptake and accumulation. The
degree of accumulation of the contaminants by animals depends on the properties of the soil, the level of
contamination and other components of the diet.
5 Characterization of soil and sites
5.1 Relevant soil processes and parameters
During transport of contaminants in soil, the contaminants are a
...
NORME ISO
INTERNATIONALE 15800
Première édition
2003-12-15
Qualité du sol — Caractérisation des sols
relative à l'exposition des personnes
Soil quality — Characterization of soil with respect to human exposure
Numéro de référence
ISO 15800:2003(F)
©
ISO 2003
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ISO 15800:2003(F)
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ii © ISO 2003 — Tous droits réservés
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ISO 15800:2003(F)
Sommaire Page
Avant-propos. iv
Introduction . v
1 Domaine d'application. 1
2 Références normatives. 1
3 Termes et définitions . 1
4 Caractérisation de sols et de sites relative à l'exposition des personnes. 4
4.1 Introduction . 4
4.2 Voies d'exposition. 5
5 Caractérisation des sols et des sites. 8
5.1 Processus et paramètres pertinents du sol .8
5.2 Échantillonnage . 10
5.3 Caractérisation du site . 11
5.4 Caractérisation du sol . 12
5.5 Caractérisation de la contamination . 16
6 Traitement, évaluation et qualité des données. 20
Annexe A (informative) Voies d'exposition en fonction de l'utilisation réelle du site. 22
Annexe B (informative) Industries et substances polluantes correspondantes. 23
Bibliographie . 24
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ISO 15800:2003(F)
Avant-propos
L'ISO (Organisation internationale de normalisation) est une fédération mondiale d'organismes nationaux de
normalisation (comités membres de l'ISO). L'élaboration des Normes internationales est en général confiée
aux comités techniques de l'ISO. Chaque comité membre intéressé par une étude a le droit de faire partie du
comité technique créé à cet effet. Les organisations internationales, gouvernementales et non
gouvernementales, en liaison avec l'ISO participent également aux travaux. L'ISO collabore étroitement avec
la Commission électrotechnique internationale (CEI) en ce qui concerne la normalisation électrotechnique.
Les Normes internationales sont rédigées conformément aux règles données dans les Directives ISO/CEI,
Partie 2.
La tâche principale des comités techniques est d'élaborer les Normes internationales. Les projets de Normes
internationales adoptés par les comités techniques sont soumis aux comités membres pour vote. Leur
publication comme Normes internationales requiert l'approbation de 75 % au moins des comités membres
votants.
L'attention est appelée sur le fait que certains des éléments du présent document peuvent faire l'objet de
droits de propriété intellectuelle ou de droits analogues. L'ISO ne saurait être tenue pour responsable de ne
pas avoir identifié de tels droits de propriété et averti de leur existence.
L'ISO 15800 a été élaborée par le comité technique ISO/TC 190, Qualité du sol, sous-comité SC 7, Évaluation
des sols et des sites.
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ISO 15800:2003(F)
Introduction
Des caractérisations de sols et de sites relatives à l'exposition des personnes sont effectuées dans le monde
entier. En général, elles sont planifiées et conduites par des bureaux d'études ou des groupes d'experts. Les
données issues de ces caractérisations sont utilisées pour l'évaluation de l'exposition des personnes. En
outre, ces caractérisations interviennent non seulement dans les processus de prises de décisions au niveau
des entreprises, des individus et des instances locales et nationales mais aussi dans les recommandations et
réglementations édictées par des instances nationales et internationales.
Les évaluations relatives aux effets potentiels sur la santé des personnes, dus à l'exposition, peuvent être
utilisées dans les cadres suivants:
classification des sites contaminés;
recommandations relatives à la réhabilitation des sites, des sols et des matériaux du sol, par exemple
fixation de priorités pour la dépollution;
décisions quant à l'usage futur/planifié des sites contaminés;
décisions à propos de l'élimination/du traitement/de la réutilisation des sols/matériaux du sol pollués ou
dépollués.
Les données nécessaires à l'évaluation de l'exposition des personnes dépendent, dans une certaine mesure,
de la façon dont l'exposition est évaluée. Ainsi, les calculs peuvent reposer sur des scénarios nécessitant
chacun des données différentes.
L'étendue des investigations nécessaires à cette évaluation peut varier en fonction du niveau de
contamination et de l'usage du site en question. Dans certains cas, l'évaluation de l'exposition potentielle sur
la santé des personnes ne peut s'appuyer que sur des informations concernant les substances présentes
dans le sol, leurs niveaux de concentration et les paramètres pertinents du sol. Dans d'autres cas, des
informations plus détaillées sur la disponibilité de la substance se révèlent nécessaires. Ces informations
dépendront de la nature et de la concentration de la substance, des paramètres pertinents du sol et du type
d'exposition concernant l'usage du site en question. En outre, la méthode et les stratégies d'échantillonnage
peuvent découler de l'usage du site et des voies d'exposition possibles.
En raison des dépenses élevées qui tendent à s'imposer à la fois pour les propriétaires fonciers privés et les
fonds publics destinés aux mesures correctives concernant les terres contaminées, aux mouvements
généraux de capitaux et aux entreprises industrielles/commerciales, la demande en matière de Normes
internationales concernant la caractérisation des sols contaminés est très forte, notamment au regard de la
santé des personnes.
Les Normes internationales associées à ce domaine complexe viendront à l'appui de la création d'une base
scientifique commune pour l'échange d'informations, le développement des connaissances et d'une solide
évaluation commerciale.
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NORME INTERNATIONALE ISO 15800:2003(F)
Qualité du sol — Caractérisation des sols relative à l'exposition
des personnes
1 Domaine d'application
La présente Norme internationale spécifie les lignes directrices concernant la nature et l'étendue de la
caractérisation des sols nécessaire à l'évaluation de l'exposition des personnes aux substances pouvant être
à l'origine d'effets néfastes.
La présente Norme internationale ne prend pas en compte les possibilités de normalisation des calculs qui
sont utilisés pour l'évaluation de l'exposition des personnes.
En outre, la présente Norme internationale ne tient pas compte des informations nécessaires à l'évaluation de
l'exposition des personnes relative à des produits contaminants lixiviés depuis le sol vers les eaux de surface
et/ou souterraines ou transférés par écoulement. De la même manière, elle ne prend pas en compte les
aspects liés à la radioactivité et aux bactéries pathogènes présentes dans le sol et à l'exposition potentielle
des personnes qui en découle.
2 Références normatives
Les documents de référence suivants sont indispensables pour l'application du présent document. Pour les
références datées, seule l'édition citée s'applique. Pour les références non datées, la dernière édition du
document de référence s'applique (y compris les éventuels amendements).
ISO 10381-1, Qualité du sol — Échantillonnage — Partie 1: Lignes directrices pour l'établissement des
programmes d'échantillonnage
ISO 10381-5, Qualité du sol — Échantillonnage — Partie 5: Lignes directrices relatives à l'investigation des
sols pollués en sites urbains et industriels
ISO 11074 (toutes les parties), Qualité du sol — Vocabulaire
ISO 11259:1998, Qualité du sol — Description simplifiée du sol
ISO 15175, Qualité du sol — Caractérisation des sols en relation avec la nappe phréatique
3 Termes et définitions
Pour les besoins du présent document, les termes et définitions donnés dans l'ISO 11074 (toutes les parties)
et dans l'ISO 11259:1998 ainsi que les suivants s'appliquent.
3.1
biodisponibilité
degré d'absorption ou de métabolisation, dans le corps humain, des substances présentes dans une matrice
du sol
NOTE Dans le contexte de la présente Norme internationale, cette définition fait référence à la disponibilité dans le
corps humain.
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3.2
biodégradation
décomposition d'une substance ou d'un produit chimique par un organisme vivant, généralement des
bactéries
3.3
contaminant
substance ou agent présent(e) dans le sol et résultant d'une activité humaine
cf. polluant (3.10)
NOTE Cette définition ne laisse présumer en aucune manière que des dommages résultent de la présence du
contaminant.
3.4
objectifs en matière de qualité des données
spécification relative aux limites de détection, à la précision, à la reproductibilité et à la répétabilité
nécessaires pour les données analytiques et autres
NOTE Il est possible que des objectifs génériques en matière de qualité des données soient parfois définis au niveau
national. Les objectifs en matière de qualité des données peuvent également englober le volume de données requis pour
une zone de terre (ou une partie d'un site) afin de permettre une comparaison efficace avec des lignes directrices ou des
normes génériques ou pour une estimation du risque spécifique à un site ou à un matériau.
3.5
exposition
réception d'une dose de substance
3.6
évaluation de l'exposition
processus utilisé pour établir si, et en quelle proportion, un récepteur peut être placé en situation d'exposition
vis-à-vis d'une source contaminée
3.7
voies d'exposition
trajet qu'utilise la substance pour passer de la source au récepteur
NOTE Chaque voie d'exposition est un lien entre une source et un récepteur.
3.8
eaux souterraines
eaux, à l'exception des eaux capillaires, situées au-dessous de la surface de la terre ou au-dessous du lit d'un
courant d'eau, d'un plan d'eau ou d'autres eaux de surface, quelle que soit la formation ou la structure
géologique dans lesquelles ces eaux sont retenues, s'écoulent, percolent ou se déplacent
3.9
danger
propriété inhérente à une substance, à un mode opératoire ou à un événement de provoquer un dommage
3.10
polluant
substance qui, en raison de ses propriétés, de sa quantité ou de sa concentration, a un effet néfaste sur les
fonctions et l'utilisation du sol
3.11
récepteur
personne potentiellement exposée
3.12
risque
combinaison de la probabilité d'un dommage et de sa gravité
[Guide ISO/CEI 51:1999]
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ISO 15800:2003(F)
3.13
analyse du risque
utilisation des informations disponibles pour identifier le danger et estimer le risque
3.14
évaluation du risque
processus d'analyse et de caractérisation du risque
3.15
caractérisation du risque
évaluation et conclusion basées sur l'identification du risque et sur l'évaluation de l'exposition et des effets
3.16
site
zone définie, qui, dans ce contexte, est souvent contaminée par des activités humaines
3.17
caractérisation du site
collecte de données offrant des informations pertinentes pour l'évaluation de l'exposition
3.18
sol
couche supérieure de la croûte terrestre composée de particules minérales, de matière organique, d'eau, d'air
et d'organismes
[ISO 11074-1:1996]
3.19
fonctions du sol
fonctions définissant l'importance du sol pour l'homme et l'environnement
[ISO 11074-4:1999]
3.20
source
sol ou composant du sol qui libère une substance ou un agent dangereux auquel les humains peuvent être
exposés
3.21
sous-sol
matériaux situés en dessous du sol superficiel et au-dessus de la roche (mère) solide du dessous
NOTE D'une manière générale, la structure d'origine de la roche a été entièrement ou partiellement dégradée par
des processus de pédogenèse.
3.22
eaux de surface
lacs, étangs, réservoirs d'accumulation, sources, cours d'eau, estuaires, terrains marécageux, arrivées d'eau,
canaux, océans dans les limites territoriales correspondantes ainsi que tous les autres milieux aqueux, qu'ils
soient naturels ou artificiels, intérieurs ou côtiers, doux ou salés
3.23
sol superficiel
partie supérieure d'un sol naturel, généralement de couleur brune, contenant plus de substances organiques
et de nutriments que le sous-sol
[ISO 11074-4:1999]
3.24
élément trace
élément à faible concentration dans les matériaux du sol
NOTE Un élément trace peut être essentiel à faible concentration et nocif à forte concentration.
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ISO 15800:2003(F)
4 Caractérisation de sols et de sites relative à l'exposition des personnes
4.1 Introduction
Les caractérisations de sols et de sites relatives à l'exposition des personnes sont généralement effectuées
dans le cadre de l'évaluation du risque.
Dans ce contexte, un site contaminé se caractérise par une zone définie, par exemple par les limites de
propriété, et contaminée par des activités humaines passées ou présentes. Dans de nombreux pays, les sites
contaminés sont dûment signalés auprès du public en raison d'une législation spécifique.
Une évaluation du risque comporte les éléments suivants:
l'identification du danger;
l'évaluation de la relation dose-effet;
l'évaluation de l'exposition;
et, à partir des éléments précédents, la caractérisation du risque.
D'une manière générale, les évaluations du risque et de l'exposition sont effectuées à partir d'un ou de
plusieurs scénarios définis, par exemple pour obtenir des critères généraux relatifs au scénario ou à partir de
données relatives à un site spécifique.
La présente Norme internationale inclut l'évaluation de l'exposition en tant qu'élément relatif à l'exposition des
personnes.
L'évaluation de l'exposition est un processus d'évaluation de l'intensité, de la fréquence et de la durée de
l'exposition des personnes à un contaminant, et se compose des éléments suivants:
l'identification et la caractérisation de la source;
l'identification des voies d'exposition;
l'identification des récepteurs/groupes cibles pertinents;
et, à partir des éléments précédents, l'exposition réelle des personnes.
Des évaluations d'exposition peuvent être effectuées pour évaluer soit l'exposition totale d'un groupe de
récepteurs donnés (par exemple la population exposée au risque), soit l'exposition supplémentaire due à une
source ou à une activité donnée. La présente Norme internationale concerne seulement le risque
supplémentaire issu de la contamination des sols.
Une analyse des voies d'exposition constitue une condition préalable à l'évaluation des effets potentiels sur la
santé des personnes. À ce titre, l'évaluation peut également prendre en compte l'utilisation réelle et planifiée
du site; cette caractéristique peut en effet permettre de définir les voies d'exposition pertinentes. Si une
nouvelle utilisation est planifiée, il faut alors renouveler l'évaluation. L'exposition peut être évaluée selon un
scénario moyen, pire ou raisonnable; en fonction des objectifs de l'évaluation, les besoins en données
peuvent être différents.
Lorsque les récepteurs ne sont pas directement exposés à un contaminant, l'évaluation de l'exposition doit
prendre en compte les différents moyens par lesquels une exposition indirecte peut se produire et leur
importance. Un contaminant peut également subir des transformations biologiques, chimiques ou physiques
susceptibles de modifier sa toxicité, sa disponibilité et sa mobilité. Le risque dépend à la fois de la
concentration du contaminant et des voies d'exposition (contact avec la peau, inhalation, ingestion, etc.). Pour
cette raison, l'analyse des modifications subies par le contaminant en raison des transformations et des
processus de transfert de phase précédant l'exposition constitue une composante importante de l'évaluation
de l'exposition.
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ISO 15800:2003(F)
La caractérisation des sols et des sites en ce qui concerne les voies d'exposition et la quantification de
l'exposition réelle est décrite en 4.2. La caractérisation des sols et des sites en ce qui concerne l'identification
et la caractérisation de la source est décrite en 5.3, où il est également fait référence à d'autres Normes
internationales pertinentes.
4.2 Voies d'exposition
4.2.1 Généralités
L'exposition des personnes à la contamination des sols peut se produire par le biais de milieux différents.
L'exposition directe à partir du sol correspond aux voies suivantes:
ingestion de terre;
contact dermique.
L'exposition atmosphérique par volatilisation de certains produits regroupe les phénomènes suivants:
inhalation et ingestion de poussières fugaces;
augmentation des concentrations extérieures;
intrusion de vapeurs dans les locaux.
L'exposition liée à la chaîne alimentaire englobe les voies suivantes:
consommation de plantes, notamment les cultures, les plantes sauvages et les champignons;
consommation d'animaux et de produits d'origine animale, y compris les animaux sauvages.
La présente Norme internationale ne tient pas compte des voies d'exposition relatives aux eaux de surface et
aux eaux souterraines. Ces voies prennent en compte l'exposition due aux douches, aux lavages de vaisselle
et aux autres usages domestiques de l'eau, à l'ingestion de poisson et d'eau du réseau polluée par des sols
ou des eaux souterraines contaminés en contact avec les canalisations d'alimentation. Il convient de noter
que ces voies peuvent être très pertinentes dans le schéma global d'exposition.
Le transfert de contaminants depuis le sol vers les eaux de surface est très spécifique au site et dépend du
volume de ruissellement, du débit de pointe, de la sensibilité à l'érosion des sols, de la longueur et de
l'inclinaison de la pente, de la capacité d'absorption du sol, du type de couverture végétale et de l'éloignement
du milieu récepteur. En pratique, la surveillance de la pollution des eaux de surface est effectuée à l'aide de
mesurages directs. En ce qui concerne l'exposition par l'intermédiaire des eaux souterraines, l'ISO 15175 doit
être appliquée.
Les voies d'exposition effectives dépendent de l'utilisation du site, comme décrit ci-dessous.
Les terrains de jeu pour enfants et les jardins privés (potagers et d'agrément) peuvent être considérés
comme conduisant au plus haut degré d'exposition des personnes qui les utilisent. Cette utilisation peut
impliquer un contact proche (de la peau) avec le sol, l'ingestion de terre ou de plantes ayant poussé dans
le sol (et de la terre restée collée à ces plantes) ainsi qu'une inhalation de poussières et de vapeurs.
Les zones agricoles peuvent représenter la principale voie d'exposition par le biais de la chaîne
alimentaire. La surface de ces zones implique que, sauf dans le cas où l'agriculteur consommerait avec
sa famille une partie de la production, les cultures sont largement distribuées dans la population. Par
ailleurs, si le sol représente la seule source de contamination, la consommation des denrées produites
dans la zone contaminée représente seulement une très faible partie de la consommation de la
population (par un phénomène de dilution avec d'autres sources de produits).
Les parcs peuvent être source d'exposition des personnes par inhalation de poussières et de vapeurs,
par contact de la peau avec la terre/poussière et, dans une moindre mesure par rapport aux jardins, par
ingestion de terre.
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ISO 15800:2003(F)
Les installations sportives provoquent principalement une exposition par le biais de l'inhalation de
terre/poussière et du contact de la peau avec la terre/poussière.
Les surfaces compactées, telles que les parcs de stationnement, les routes, etc., sont source d'exposition
par l'inhalation de vapeurs et l'accumulation de poussière fine.
Les bâtiments (maisons, écoles, jardins d'enfants, bureaux, usines et magasins) sont source d'exposition
par des vapeurs; le sol transporté dans les bâtiments peut provoquer une exposition par inhalation et/ou
ingestion de poussières.
L'industrie peut comprendre des surfaces compactées et d'autres non compactées, des zones
assimilables à des parcs et des bâtiments. Les informations nécessaires à l'évaluation de l'exposition des
personnes pour ces types de zones ont été répertoriées plus haut.
Le temps d'exposition réel peut être différent pour des sites de même nature, selon les modes d'utilisation, en
raison des différences de climat et de caractéristiques réelles d'utilisation (par exemple le nombre de jours par
semaine où le site est utilisé).
À titre d'information, l'Annexe A récapitule les voies d'exposition importantes pour chacune des utilisations des
sites.
La description ci-après traite de la caractérisation des sols en ce qui concerne les différentes voies
d'exposition. Les modèles d'absorption, et par conséquent l'importance des différentes voies d'exposition,
varient en fonction des propriétés des contaminants concernés.
4.2.2 Ingestion de sol
L'ingestion de sol par les enfants se produit quand ces derniers avalent de la poussière, mettent leurs doigts
sales à la bouche et mangent réellement de la terre. Il convient d'établir une distinction entre une absorption
par inadvertance ou accidentelle et un comportement délibéré et persistant à long terme (allotriophagie).
D'une manière générale, il convient de considérer l'allotriophagie comme un cas spécifique, et donc pas
nécessairement pertinent pour une évaluation réelle.
NOTE 1 Certains jeunes enfants passent par une courte période d'exploration pendant laquelle ils ingèrent de la terre.
Les adultes absorbent principalement de la terre sous forme de poussières, en jardinant par exemple, mais
aussi directement sur les légumes et les fruits non préalablement nettoyés. Dans le cas de la caractérisation
d'un site donné, il convient de tenir compte du comportement réel.
Pour évaluer l'exposition par ingestion de terre, la teneur en contaminant généralement prise en considération
est celle obtenue par extraction avec des solvants d'extraction forts [cette teneur est appelée teneur
(pseudo)totale dans le cas des métaux]. De plus, l'hypothèse de l'absorption totale du contaminant par le
système digestif est souvent avancée, mais quelques expérimentations animales montrent qu'elle n'est pas
toujours pertinente, du moins pour les métaux. Des méthodes (employant des solvants d'extraction
légèrement plus faibles) servant à décrire l'absorption de métaux présents dans des jouets ont également été
utilisées pour ce type d'évaluation. La capacité d'absorption d'un contaminant donné peut varier selon la taille
des particules du sol; dans ce cas, les informations relatives à la distribution granulométrique peuvent se
révéler pertinentes.
NOTE 2 La concentration (pseudo)totale est définie par la méthode d'analyse réelle et notamment par la méthode
d'extraction spécifique utilisée (voir en 5.5).
4.2.3 Contact dermique
Le contact de la peau avec le sol contaminé peut être dû à la poussière qui atteint la peau par le biais de
dépôts atmosphériques, en jouant ou en travaillant avec le sol. Il convient de noter qu'il existe une distinction
entre le contact de la peau qui intervient dans un lieu comme une habitation privée et le contact sur un lieu de
travail, puisque ce dernier fait généralement l'objet d'une réglementation particulière en matière d'hygiène et
de sécurité. Il convient de noter que les questions relatives aux lieux de travail ne sont pas traitées dans la
présente Norme internationale.
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ISO 15800:2003(F)
Les informations nécessaires à l'évaluation de cette voie d'exposition comprennent la concentration
(pseudo)totale de chacune des substances présentes dans le sol. Les paramètres permettant de déterminer
la biodisponibilité peuvent se révéler utiles pour mener des calculs relatifs aux capacités d'absorption de la
peau (une fois que les particules du sol ont atteint cette surface). Dans le cadre de l'évaluation des
contaminants du sol par rapport au contact de la peau, il convient d'établir une distinction entre les
contaminants pouvant être absorbés par celle-ci et les substances susceptibles de provoquer d'autres effets,
tels que les réactions d'hypersensibilité.
4.2.4 Inhalation de poussières
La véritable importance de l'inhalation des poussières (et leur digestion) en tant que voie d'exposition est
principalement liée à l'utilisation réelle du site [par exemple, des manifestations de moto-cross et des terrains
de football représentent des sites où l'inhalation de poussières (et leur digestion) peuvent jouer un rôle
majeur]. Les conditions climatiques et la couverture végétale influencent également l'exposition réelle.
Les calculs concernant l'absorption par la poussière peuvent s'appuyer sur des modèles généraux se
rapportant à la poussière présente dans l'air. Les paramètres permettant de déterminer la biodisponibilité
peuvent se révéler utiles pour mener une évaluation détaillée relative à l'absorption de contaminants à partir
de la poussière inhalée. D'une manière générale, le niveau de concentration varie selon la taille des particules,
les plus petites qui contiennent généralement les concentrations les plus élevées, restent plus longtemps en
suspension. Il convient de prendre en compte cette information si seuls les mesurages des concentrations
moyennes sont disponibles.
4.2.5 Inhalation de vapeurs (en plein air)
Il convient de baser l'évaluation de l'inhalation de vapeurs essentiellement sur des mesurages relatifs à la
concentration dans l'air du sol, de préférence par des méthodes d'échantillonnage passives. Si cela se révèle
impossible ou inapproprié (par exemple dans le cadre d'activités planifiées qui pourraient modifier la distance
entre la zone contaminée et le récepteur, notamment par l'insertion de systèmes de ventilation
...
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