Terra-Petra has been chosen to provide environmental engineering services for the design of the vapor intrusion mitigation system (VIMS) design for a new logistics center in Fontana, CA.

Over the last couple of years, we have seen an increased demand for vapor intrusion mitigation systems to be designed and installed at large commercial warehouse type buildings. The main driving force appears to be the environmental personality of the property in which the buildings are being constructed. The site history will vary, but a history of industrial or commercial use where the site was subject to a chemical release of some sorts is the commonality.

Whether it be a petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) impact from a former oil field/oil well or a Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) release from a dry cleaner or manufacturing facility the potential impacts on the health and safety of the future occupants of the building is what needs to be addressed.

Terra-Petra is well equipped at designing these systems for the current conditions, as well as building in contingency design features for potential future changes. Essentially, we design passive venting systems that are easily upgradable to active subslab depressurization systems (with remote telemetry and remote system monitoring and maintenance built into it if such a conversion is warranted in the future).

The proposed development in Fontana will consist of the construction of a new warehouse building having an approximate 260,650 SF footprint. The vapor mitigation measures will specifically include a “passive” vapor barrier beneath the office areas of the planned warehouse building, and the installation of  a passive ventilation layer beneath the vapor barrier. Inclusion of a ventilation layer beneath the vapor barrier would enable it to be made “active” at a later date by adding in-line fans, such as those used for radon mitigation, to the vertical riser pipes inside the warehouse.