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Aerobic treatment
Process by which microbes decompose complex organic compounds in the presence of oxygen and use the liberated energy for reproduction and growth. Types of aerobic processes include extended aeration, trickling filtration, and rotating biological contactors.
Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL)
The highest (maximum) level of a contaminant allowed to go uncorrected by a public water system under federal or state regulations. Depending on the contaminant, allowable levels might be calculated as an average over time, or might be based on individual test results.
AHM
Acutely Hazardous Material
Interim Remedial Measure (IRM)
An action taken at a contaminated site to reduce the chances of human or environmental exposure to site contaminants. Interim remedial measures are planned and carried out before comprehensive remedial studies.
Agricultural pollution
The liquid and solid wastes from farming, including, runoff from pesticides, fertilizers, and feed- lots; erosion and dust from plowing; animal manure and carcasses, crop residues, and debris.
Ambient
Occurring over a short time, usually a few minutes or hours. An acute exposure can result in short term or long term health effects. An acute effect happens within a short time after exposure.
Exposure
Contact with a chemical by swallowing, by breathing or by direct contact (such as through the skin or eyes). Exposure may be either short term (acute) or long term (chronic).
Remedial Investigation (RI)
An in-depth study (including sampling of air, soil, water and waste) of a contaminated site needing remediation to determine the nature and extent of contamination. The remedial investigation (RI) is usually combined with a feasibility study (FS).
Infiltration
(1) the penetration of water through the ground surface into sub-surface soil or the penetration of water from the soil into sewer or other pipes through defective joints, connections, or manhole walls. (2) a land application technique where large volumes of waste water are applied to land, allowed to penetrate the surface and percolate through the underlying soil. (See: percolation).
HMTUSA
Hazardous Materials Transportation Uniform Safety Act (1999); amendments to HMTA including requirements for performance-oriented packaging.
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