Community Air Monitoring is a requirement when excavating petroleum-contaminated soil near residential areas. The purpose of the plan is to protect the public in the event of exposure by providing constant monitoring. The intent is to provide a measure of protection for the downwind community. The plan details actions to abate emissions, and if necessary, shut down the worksite based on the monitoring.

The plan includes setting up real-time monitoring instruments to measure Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and particulates (i.e., dust) at upwind and downwind perimeter locations when intrusive soil activities are in progress. Additionally, the monitoring helps confirm that the work activities did not cause the spread of contamination off-site.