66 Figure 2 – Conceptual Site Model for post-mining land use 2.2 Contamination characterization This phase involves the consolidation of site-specific environmental data and the evaluation of their representativeness for the environmental media under assessment. The objective is to ensure that available data is sufficient to estimate exposure at relevant points of contact. Where data gaps are identified, complementary sampling programs are defined. Validated results are organized by environmental matrix, exposure pathway (ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact), and receptor type, allowing transparent identification of contaminants of concern. According to national guidelines (MINAM, 2015), contaminants of concern are identified based on concentrations of substances of interest that exceed background levels and applicable environmental criteria. Statistical tools are applied to ensure adequate data representativeness. Identified contaminants of concern are then carried forward to the toxicity and exposure assessment phase. 2.3 Toxicity and exposure assessment This phase constitutes the technical core of risk assessment, integrating the nature of adverse effects with the magnitude of contact between contaminants and receptors. Toxicological characterization aims to determine the type and severity of effects that receptors may experience and under what exposure conditions.
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