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This layout exemplary shows different areas of concern. The layout can be downloaded here (PDF). All these compounds are typical production specific chemicals as used in the metal working industry. With the exception of VOCs the other compounds are still be used at Continental Automotive Systems sites: - VOC´s e.g. Perchlorethylen, Trichloethylen formerly were used in "open" degreasers to clean metals. They are volatile and can penetrate concrete. This is the main reason that these compounds were detected as the key contaminants in soil and groundwater at many of our sites. Another source of contamination are former handling and storage practises associated with these materials.
- Oil contamination mostly results from trace amounts of hydraulic oils and coolants as well as from handling and storage processes of machines, raw materials and waste materials (fluids, chips).
- Heavy metal contamination is related to electroplating processes e.g. surface treatment for corrosion prevention of metals. In former times cadmium was also used within these processes
Clean-up (remediation) of Hazardous Waste Sites Development of a clean-up concepts will always be initiated if the investigation and risk assessment of a site requires remediation. At this stage environmental consultants are involved to develop remediation strategies and to realize implementation in close cooperation with authorities. In general Continental Automotive Systems involves the environmental authorities as early as possible, and we conduct an open dialogue with all interested parties. Environmental authorities positively acknowledge this proactive program and approach of Automotive Systems divisions. As a consequence there never have been any consent orders been issued by authorities that mandate certain actions. Continental Automotive Systems is recognized as a company that cares about the environment. Following chapter "Clean up techniques"
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