Services
Orion’s mission is to deliver excellent service to carefully selected clients who not only share its business values but who seek value for dollars paid. To deliver this, Orion recruits and retains a well-rounded and diverse staff with the best possible combination of experience, education, ethics, hands-on training, technical resourcefulness, and management and communication skills.
Orion has provided environmental remediation services on numerous projects to expedite closure from regulatory agencies and minimize overall project costs. Orion provides comprehensive environmental services that encompass the following actions.
Discovery
Reviewing site history, defining the problem, writing work plans, conducting site assessments and investigations, and negotiating and establishing cleanup levels using risk assessments and fate-and-transport studies.
Feasibility
Developing conceptual site models, combining technologies into remedial alternatives from the resulting data, and determining goals through client discussion and agency negotiation.
Implementation
Designing and installing remediation systems and implementing remedial plans.
Maintenance and closure
Operating, maintaining, monitoring, and optimizing systems to achieve conditions for site closure.
Click to see projects related to the following services we provide »
- 3rd Party Oversight
- Assessment / Compliance
- Construction Management
- Groundwater Treatment
- Hydrogeologic Evaluations / Computer Modeling
- Innovative Remedial Alternative Evaluation
- Investigation
- Liability Evaluation / Lifecycle Cost Estimate
- Litigation Support
- Project Management
- Remedial System Design
- Risk Assessment / Vapor Intrusion
- Site Closure
- Site Redevelopment
- Soil Remediation
- System Operation and Enhancement
- Value Engineering
Featured Project > 3rd Party Oversight
See all Projects3rd Party Oversight
Orion provides oversight of environmental consultants and contractors performing soil and groundwater cleanups. Typical work scopes will include reviewing existing work, identifying data gaps, and developing or reviewing conceptual site models. Orion can provide field staff to monitor sampling and remediation tasks.
Featured Project > Assessment / Compliance
See all ProjectsAssessment / Compliance
Phase 1 environmental site assessments (ESAs): Orion conducts ESAs to evaluate potential releases from past and present activities on a site or at nearby properties. The ESAs generally conform to American Society for Testing & Materials (ASTM) standards, unless the client requests a modified scope of work, and include the following tasks: site reconnaissance and interviews, regulatory agency record review, and historical document review.
Orion provides compliance and hazardous materials management services. This may include obtaining permits (e.g., U.S. Environmental Protection Agency identification numbers); recordkeeping (e.g., manifests); worker hazard communication (e.g., material safety data sheets and training); and providing assistance with the proper documentation, storage, packaging, transportation, treatment, and disposal of hazardous materials and waste. Orion’s staff is familiar with and trained in U.S. Department of Transportation hazardous materials regulations.
Featured Project > Construction Management
See all ProjectsConstruction Management
Orion teams with qualified contractors to implement remedial designs by Orion or other companies. This team can provide clients with design-build (or turnkey) services to expedite design and construction of remediation systems.
Orion provides an experienced construction manager during installation of remedial systems or implementation of a remedy. The construction manager checks that project personnel are trained and/or certified for the tasks they perform according to applicable federal, state, and/or local requirements; maintains a photograph and inspection log during field activities; and monitors construction activities in accordance with a site-specific health and safety plan.
Construction activities typically include trenching, pipe installation, pressure tests, wellhead and junction vault installation, equipment placement, storage tank installation, and electrical connections. After construction, Orion prepares as-built drawings of the remediation system and compiles contractor and vendor submittals.
Orion provides construction administration support including:
- Coordinating with regulators and stakeholders for public notifications and inspections
- Participating in public community relations meetings
- Coordinating construction kickoff meetings and periodic construction status meetings
- Reviewing contractor technical submittals (shop drawings, etc.)
- Coordinating and attending weekly status meetings to track progress of construction
- Monitoring construction activities for potential design issues, California Environmental Quality Act or CEQA mitigation monitoring, potential change orders, health and safety issues, community outreach issues, and regulatory issues
- Reviewing contractor payment applications
- Completing project punch list inspections and preparing for system start-up.
Featured Project > Groundwater Treatment
See all ProjectsGroundwater Treatment
Orion’s engineers, geologists, and scientists implement strategies to treat contaminated groundwater using both in situ (in-place) and ex situ (above-ground) technologies. Orion has designed treatment systems using numerous remedial technologies including:
In Situ Groundwater Remediation
- Monitored natural attenuation
- Aerobic bioremediation
- Enhanced reductive dechlorination
- In-well stripping
- In-well recirculation with chemical oxidation
- Thermal treatment (electrical resistance heating)
- In situ chemical oxidation (ozone, peroxide, permanganate, and persulfate)
- Air sparging
Ex Situ Groundwater Remediation
- Dual-phase and two-phase extraction
- Free product recovery
- Pump-and-treat
- Air stripping
- Carbon adsorption
- Fluidized-bed and fixed-bed bioreactors
- Advanced oxidation (UV/peroxide, ozone/peroxide)
- Ion exchange resin adsorption
- Reverse osmosis.
Featured Project > Hydrogeologic Evaluations / Computer Modeling
Former Electronics Manufacturing Facility
Mid-West United States
Hydrogeologic Evaluations / Computer Modeling
Hydrogeologic evaluations are an integral part of Orion’s overall site investigation. Information and data collected during a hydrogeologic evaluation are used to develop an accurate site conceptual model, delineate areas of impact, and design an effective remedial action.
Orion’s staff is not only proficient in using traditional hydrogeologic evaluation tools, but also in the intelligent use of newer sampling and characterization technologies. For example, Orion has deployed cost-saving passive diffusion bags to delineate the vertical distribution of contaminants in the saturated zone at multiple project sites. For a DNAPL site investigation, Orion used FLUTe indicator tape to delineate the vertical distribution of chlorinated hydrocarbons in saturated sediments.
Orion performs fate-and-transport studies to calculate the potential migration of chemicals as vapor- and liquid-phase compounds within and between soil and groundwater. Fate-and-transport studies are combined with risk assessments to establish site-specific cleanup levels for impacted soil and groundwater. These cleanup levels are typically higher than published standards and can reduce (or eliminate) the remediation scope and costs.
Orion uses computer models and 3D visualization software including Visual MODFLOW, SESOIL, EVS, Rockworks, and AT123D.
Featured Project > Innovative Remedial Alternative Evaluation
See all ProjectsInnovative Remedial Alternative Evaluation
If the results of the field investigation and agency negotiations indicate that the impacted soil or groundwater must be remediated, Orion evaluates remedial technologies and recommends an approach for site remediation. Orion’s technical staff has extensive experience evaluating a variety of remedial options and their associated costs as well as implementing remedial strategies.
Orion’s technical directors work with in-house senior engineers and scientists and outside experts to create a team to identify potential remedial technologies. The project team typically generates a list of five to eight potentially applicable technologies considering the affected media, contaminant, and known site constraints. Orion then puts together a seasoned team of remediation professionals to review the list and apply screening and evaluation criteria including (1) technology effectiveness, (2) technical implementability, (3) regulatory acceptance, (4) site-specific threshold criteria, (5) schedule, and (6) cost. One remedy is selected and a technology evaluation report and engineering cost estimate are prepared for the client’s review and approval. Orion’s technology selection process and feasibility study reports comply with the requirements of the federal National Contingency Plan.
Investigation
Orion conducts site characterizations and remedial investigations to evaluate potential releases from past and present activities at sites. Remedial investigations include sampling of soil, groundwater, surface water, air, and soil gas for potential chemicals of concern or COCs. The objective of the remedial investigation is to identify COCs, lateral and vertical extent in various media, and potential exposure routes and receptors. Orion also performs field studies to measure naturally occurring in situ biodegradation of petroleum and chlorinated hydrocarbons in groundwater.
The site investigation techniques used by Orion may include: (1) grab soil sample collection, (2) soil borings, (3) exploratory trenches, (4) soil gas surveys, (5) geophysical surveys, (6) grab groundwater sample collection, and (7) groundwater monitoring wells. Orion uses innovative remedial investigation techniques for soil, soil gas, and groundwater investigation including Hydropunch™, sonic coring, Geoprobe®, SimulProbe®, cone penetrometer testing, membrane interface probes, ultraviolet optical screening tool, Encore, and passive diffusion bag samplers to assess the presence and extent of contaminants.
Featured Project > Liability Evaluation / Lifecycle Cost Estimate
Former and Active Gasoline Service Stations
Arizona, California, and Nevada
Liability Evaluation / Lifecycle Cost Estimate
Orion conducts liability evaluations, especially for clients that are selling or purchasing assets such as real property. Orion implements a standardized process to evaluate the environmental liability of a portfolio of properties. The process involves multiple stages including historical site data review; evaluation of site conditions, current remediation strategies, and recommendations for future work; and development of site-specific work scopes and costs.
From this process, Orion produces environmental cost estimates with quality control checks which provide defensible, realistic estimates that can be audited by a third party. For each property, Orion generates an environmental liability report that includes a summary and evaluation of environmental conditions, recommended scope and duration of future activities, and environmental cost estimates.
Orion prepares life-cycle cost estimates to estimate the reserves required to obtain closure for one site or a portfolio of properties. Orion has developed a cost estimation tool that uses standardized work scopes and costs. Orion also uses industry standard cost estimating tools such as Remedial Action Cost Estimating Requirements (RACER) software.
For complex properties or portfolios, Orion will put together a collaborative team of experts to develop and peer review the liability estimates. The team will typically include engineering, geology, and hydrogeology professionals who have extensive experience.
Litigation Support
Orion provides litigation support services on projects involving soil and groundwater contamination. Orion’s senior technical staff reviews historical data, evaluates opposing party positions and strategies, and advises clients’ attorneys on technical issues. Orion has provided expert witness services, provided depositions, and participated in mediations for clients.
Project Management
Orion provides trained and experienced project managers (PMs) to serve as the point of contact for the client. PMs play a key role in any environmental remediation program and allow the client to interact efficiently with Orion by doing the following:
- Identifying appropriate technical resources within Orion and subcontractors
- Assigning and managing project staff and subcontractors in completing scopes of work successfully
- Communicating customer information to the project team (standardized protocols, cost estimating/budget systems, etc.)
- Generating project budgets and tracking costs monthly
- Ensuring the quality of project deliverables.
For clients with multiple project sites, Orion assigns an account manager to serve as an advocate within Orion and make resources available to accommodate the client’s projects.
Featured Project > Remedial System Design
Former Service Station
La Mirada, California
Remedial System Design
Orion’s primary focus since its founding has been the design of remedies for contaminated soil and groundwater. Orion’s engineers and scientists have designed, installed, and operated dozens of soil vapor extraction systems, dual-phase and two-phase extraction systems, and groundwater extraction and treatment systems. In addition, Orion has implemented dozens of in situ groundwater remedies including bioremediation, chemical oxidation, thermal treatment, and in-well treatment technologies.
As a design firm, Orion maintains strong working relationships with CAD designers, geotechnical engineers, structural engineers, and electrical/control engineers. Orion teams with outside firms to provide clients with the best available specialists.
For a typical design project, Orion prepares design drawings, specifications, bid documents, and engineering cost estimates (as required) for the selected remedial alternative. These documents are provided to the client for approval and to contractors for permits and bids on system construction. Orion assists the client with contractor selection and provides construction management to install the remediation system within the planned budget and schedule.
Featured Project > Risk Assessment / Vapor Intrusion
Former Electronics Manufacturing Facility
Santa Clara County, California
Risk Assessment / Vapor Intrusion
After the type and extent of contaminants are assessed, risk assessments are conducted to (1) identify the chemical migration pathways, (2) assess the toxicity of the chemicals, and (3) calculate the risk of exposure to receptors including people and groundwater. Orion teams with experienced toxicologists to prepare site-specific risk assessments to characterize the current and potential risks to human health and the environment. Risks may be posed by contaminants migrating to groundwater or surface water, releasing to air, leaching through soil, remaining in the soil, and bioaccumulating in the food chain. The risk assessment includes exposure assessment, pathway analysis, and health risk quantification to potential receptors. The results of a baseline risk assessment help establish acceptable exposure levels for use in developing remedial alternatives.
Orion also conducts health risk evaluations (HREs) including air intrusion modeling to quantify the risk of COC migration into occupied structures. The HRE uses exposure assumptions consistent with the appropriate regulatory agencies (federal EPA, State EPA, or ASTM). A Johnson & Ettinger screening model is used (typically GW SCREEN, v2.3). The risk characterization incorporates an exposure assessment, the Johnson & Ettinger model, and the toxicity of detected COCs into a quantitative expression of risk.
Featured Project > Site Closure
See all ProjectsSite Closure
Orion prepares and implements closure plans for regulatory agency approval. These closure plans typically include soil, groundwater, or soil gas confirmation sampling and post-closure monitoring. Orion negotiates with regulatory agencies to establish the performance criteria for closing a site or shutting down the remediation system. After these criteria are met, a site closure program is conducted (including well abandonment, conveyance pipe removal, and remedial equipment resale) and the site is restored to its previous condition. Closure reports, requests for closure, and “no further action” letters are prepared to document remediation activities and agency approval for closure.
Featured Project > Site Redevelopment
See all ProjectsSite Redevelopment
Orion works with clients who are redeveloping contaminated properties. Orion’s technical staff reviews the site conditions, estimates the environmental liability, and develops life-cycle cost estimates. Orion retains toxicologists to evaluate the risks and cleanup requirements for the final land use and establishes a cleanup strategy and schedule.
Featured Project > Soil Remediation
Former Electronics Manufacturing Facility
Santa Clara County, California
Soil Remediation
Orion’s technical team implements strategies to treat contaminated soil using both in situ (in-place) and ex situ (above-ground) technologies. Orion has designed treatment systems using numerous remedial technologies including:
Soil Excavation and Onsite Treatment
- Aboveground SVE
- Metals stabilization
- Bioremediation
Soil Excavation and Offsite Treatment
- Low temperature thermal desorption
- Stabilization
- Landfarming
- Landfilling
In Situ Soil Remediation
- Capping
- Bioventing
- Electrical resistance heating
Soil Vapor Extraction Systems
- Thermal oxidation
- Catalytic oxidation
- Regenerative oxidation
- Internal combustion
- Carbon adsorption/desorption
- Synthetic resin adsorption/desorption
- Refrigeration/condensation
Featured Project > System Operation and Enhancement
Former Electronics Manufacturing Facility
Los Angeles County, California
System Operation and Enhancement
After construction and start-up of a remediation system, Orion prepares as-built drawings and operation & maintenance or O&M manuals. Orion operates and maintains the system to provide for continuous operation and efficient removal of contaminants. Orion collects soil, water, and gas samples; monitors system performance; and prepares status reports to comply with regulatory requirements and permits. Orion evaluates the data to optimize the remediation system for contaminant removal to expedite system shutdown and site closure. Orion’s remediation system O&M experience includes permitting, system sampling, training of facility personnel, preventative maintenance, utility payments, chemical management, and performance reports on a time-and-materials, unit price, or fixed-price basis.
Featured Project > Value Engineering
Aerospace Manufacturing Facility
East Coast, United States
Value Engineering
Orion evaluates remedial strategies and treatment systems to find less costly ways to achieve high-quality results. Orion’s senior technical staff will review a project in a cooperative collaboration with the client and existing consultants. Orion’s value engineering approach is systematic process that includes analyzing all phases of the project, brainstorming to identify alternate ways to accomplish the desired scope, and evaluating the alternatives.
Orion can recommend enhancements to accelerate cleanup time or reduce project costs. Most value engineering projects will involve discovering and resolving issues in open teams to achieve superior results for less money.