Work crews are on-site today to conduct a geophysical survey of the area surrounding the site of an August 26 explosion in downtown Wheatley.
Chatham-Kent General Manager of Engineering and Infrastructure Services Thomas Kelly said today the survey will employ ground penetration radar and electromagnetic technology to map the subsurface and provide detailed information on soil features, non-metallic objects and the exact location of any abandoned steel cased wells.
As well, gas monitoring has been deployed throughout the site.
“The goal of this work is to determine the precise source of the gas emission,” Kelly said, in a media release.
“Once this information is known, next steps will be to determine the appropriate remediation strategy.”
Kelly said the work could take two weeks but that timetable could vary depending on what is found as the project proceeds.
He continued, “the gas that caused the explosion is both toxic and flammable. We appreciate the public’s patience and understanding that work must proceed in a careful and methodical manner to ensure a continued safe working environment for all.”
Efforts by the municipality to reach out to businesses and residents affected by the explosion continue.
Although all known businesses in the area have been contacted, the municipality has been unable to reach a small number of residents regarding relief options. Letters are being sent to those individuals to determine their needs.
