TDEC-DOR Screening Levels for Chemicals of Potential Concern

For hazardous substances, the Division of Remediation (TDEC-DOR) makes use of the following EPA screening levels for soil, groundwater, soil gas, and/or indoor air:

• EPA Regional Screening Levels (soil, groundwater, air) - The EPA RSLs present a series of screening tables based on different levels of risk. TDEC-DoR recommends using the 1E-06 and 0.1 tables for initial screening comparisons.

The United States Environmental Protection Agency has released an update to the resident soil screening level for lead. The RSL tables have not been updated since Nov 2023, but as noted in EPA’s January 17, 2024 release, 200 ppm lead for screening of resident soil is effective immediately.

• Vapor Intrusion Screening Level Calculator (exterior and sub-slab soil gas, groundwater) - The EPA VISL calculator is not a table, but you can select a CR of 1E-06 and an HQ of 0.1 to screen chemicals of potential concern that may have a vapor intrusion component.

TDEC-DoR does not consider screening values as default cleanup levels or remediation goals. Remediation goals are determined on a site-specific basis, after adequate site characterization has occurred, and when necessary after a conceptual site model has been developed.

The Division of Underground Storage Tanks' guidance addresses known petroleum contamination. Proper use of these values is also predicated on adequate site characterization and correct use of all TDEC-UST Guidance.