Assessment Criteria for the QSR 2010 (OSPAR, 2009b) states that “ERL values are to be used in sediment assessments of contaminants (e.g. PAHs and metals) as an interim solution where recommended EACs [Environmental Assessment Criteria] are not available”. EACs are not currently available for PAHs and metals and therefore ERL values were used in this study as a means to assess the degree of sediment contamination.
86.
Cefas Guideline Action Levels (AL) for the disposal of dredged material are non‐ statutory guidelines which form part of a wider body of evidence for assessment of disposal of dredged materials to sea. In general, concentrations of contaminants below Cefas Action Level 1 are of little concern with respect to possible effects on the marine environment. Concentrations above Action Level 2, however, suggest that the material is unsuitable for disposal at sea. Values between Levels 1 and 2 may prompt further investigatory work prior to disposal of the material to sea.
Benthic Characterisation Report November 2013
East Anglia THREE and FOUR Offshore Cable Corridor
