What is a preliminary site assessment primarily used for?

A preliminary site assessment is primarily used to evaluate potential environmental contamination on a site. This process involves examining the historical uses of the land, local geology, and hydrology, as well as conducting physical inspections and testing for hazardous substances. The goal is to identify any environmental risks that could impact the construction process or the future use of the site. By identifying such contamination early on, contractors can make informed decisions regarding remediation, budgeting, and project planning. This assessment is crucial for ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and for protecting the health and safety of workers and future occupants.

The other options focus on aspects of project management or construction logistics that do not pertain directly to environmental factors. While estimating costs and scheduling are vital components of project planning, they are secondary to the primary purpose of ensuring the site is safe and suitable for development. Analyzing labor requirements, while also important, is not relevant in the context of the preliminary assessment's main objective.