Record Penalty for Pouring Hazardous Waste down Floor Drain

March 13, 2006



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Argent Chemicals faces $180,000 in fines from the Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology) for disposing of flammable and corrosive chemicals into a sewer drain, not storing hazardous waste safely, failing to register as a hazardous waste generator and other violations.
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The company is located near City of Redmond water-supply wells. Ecology, Redmond and King County jointly investigated the facility last year, leading to enforcement actions by all three. Ecology's penalty cites Argent for failing to follow 11 separate state hazardous waste requirements, intended to protect public safety, health and the environment. The company had violated four of the regulations on two or more occasions.
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"Argent's violations and discharges created a serious threat to human health and the environment," said Darin Rice, who manages Ecology's hazardous waste and toxic reduction program.
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Among the violations cited in the Ecology penalty:

  • Inspectors saw workers release waste acetone, toluene, ethanol and acids into a floor drain. The chemicals pose risks to worker safety health, and can disrupt the treatment process at the county's wastewater treatment plant.
  • The company did not separate waste chemicals that can react together to explode, catch fire or produce toxic fumes.
  • Containers of hazardous wastes were not properly labeled or closed.
  • The company did not report that it was generating hazardous wastes, and it did not properly register as a hazardous waste generator.
  • Employees responsible for handling hazardous waste had no documented training, and the company had no written training plan.
  • The company had no records or weekly inspections of dangerous waste storage areas and containers.
  • The facility had no secondary containment for hazardous waste storage areas to prevent a release in case of container leaks or spills.


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Ecology also has issued a detailed order to Argent to evaluate its waste management practices to prevent future violations, and follow up with written reports on its progress. Ecology had earlier - after inspections in May and November, 2005 - instructed Argent to correct the violations.
Ecology provides technical assistance - separate from enforcement - to all facilities that register as hazardous waste generators. Argent withdrew its registration in 2000.
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Redmond ordered Argent to immediately stop discharging production waste into the drain following an inspection last May. The city also ordered the company to seal off the floor drain where waste chemicals had been discharged, and to comply with other city requirements. Redmond's Wellhead Protection Ordinance sets local standards for hazardous materials handling, storage and disposal to protect municipal water-supply wells.
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The King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks (DNRP) issued a $24,000 penalty for unauthorized industrial waste discharge into the sanitary sewer system in violation of King County Code and local discharge limits. DNRP operates the county's waste-water treatment facilities. DNRP also ordered Argent to cease discharging process wastewater into the sanitary sewer system until the company met a set of conditions under which the discharges may resume.

In separate, earlier action, the EPA reached a settlement with Argent in May, 2005 in which the company agreed to a $300,000 penalty and several conditions, including ceasing the production of pesticides. The agreement settled EPA's May 2004 Complaint which alleged that Argent committed 304 violations of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) between 1999 and 2003. Prior to this action, Argent paid a $50,000 penalty in 1993 and was criminally convicted in 1988 for committing similar violations of FIFRA.
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"Thousands of businesses manage their hazardous wastes safely and legally every day in Washington," said Rice. "When a business fails to comply with these rules, it creates an unfair and unsafe advantage for that company, at the expense of public health and the environment."
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EPA, Industry Launch Initiative to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions



A public-private partnership will help reduce emissions that deplete the ozone layer and contribute to climate change. EPA and the Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute announced an initiative that promotes the environmentally responsible use of fluorocarbon refrigerants in the annual manufacture of more than 8 million residential and commercial air conditioning units and refrigeration systems.

"Promoting the responsible use of products that emit greenhouse gases makes business sense and protects the environment," said Bill Wehrum acting assistant administrator for Air and Radiation. "We have the ability to make a difference with the appliances we use every day."

The plan will minimize emissions of two chemicals or "working fluids" in air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment. Hydrochlorofluorocarbons are being phased out under the Montreal Protocol and Clean Air Act because they deplete the ozone layer. Hydrofluorocarbons have become widely used as substitutes for ozone depleting refrigerants and do not deplete the ozone layer, but are strong greenhouse gases - up to 3,000 times more potent than carbon dioxide.

The initiative builds upon guidelines developed in 2002 by governmental and industry groups including EPA, the United Nations Environment Programme, Japan Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and the Alliance for Responsible Atmospheric Policy. The plan contains specific strategies for reducing emissions during all stages of production, including delivery, storage, the transfer of refrigerants and system charging, testing and refrigerant recovery. The guidelines provide a framework for protecting the environment beyond current mandates through advanced technologies.

In addition to the air-conditioning and refrigeration industry, EPA is working collaboratively with many key sectors to quantify and reduce emissions, and to promote efficient, climate and ozone-friendly technologies in the United States and globally.
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EPA Proposes to Add 183 Chemicals to PFAS Significant New Use Rule


á  EPA is proposing to amend the PFAS SNUR at 40 CFR 721.9582 by adding a new Table 3 containing the remaining PFAS chemicals on the TSCA Inventory that are not already regulated by the SNUR. This proposed rule would require manufacturers, including importers, to notify EPA at least 90 days before commencing the manufacture or import of the PFAS chemicals listed in Table 3 of the regulatory text proposed herein for the significant new uses described in this document on or after April 10, 2006. EPA believes that this action is necessary because these chemical substances may be hazardous to human health and the environment. The required notice will provide EPA the opportunity to evaluate intended significant new uses and associated activities before they occur and, if necessary, to prohibit or limit those uses or activities. Comments must be received on or before April 10, 2006.
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Cattle Feedlot Operator in Southwestern Iowa Cited for Clean Water Act Violations


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EPA Region 7 has cited Lauritsen Cattle Company, a feedlot operator in southwestern Iowa, for illegally discharging pollutants into a tributary of the East Nishnabotna River in violation of the Clean Water Act. The operator also has failed to fully comply with the Iowa Open Feedlot Plan.
EPA ordered Lauritsen Cattle Company (Lauritsen) to build proper livestock waste control structures to stop feedlot wastewater and runoff from further damaging the environment. Lauritsen had been violating the law by operating its cattle feedlot without those controls. The feedlot is located near Exira, about 70 miles west of Des Moines.

In addition, Lauritsen has agreed to pay a $29,700 penalty. The enforcement case will be finalized in mid-March, subject to public comment during a 40-day comment period.

EPA brought this action after the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) expelled Lauritsen from the Iowa Open Feedlot Plan (Iowa Plan). Lauritsen registered in the Iowa Plan in 2001, but failed to meet its mandatory deadlines for progress. The Iowa Plan ends April 1.

"Our message to Iowa cattle producers has been clear," said Jim Gulliford, EPA regional administrator. "Producers were given a five-year enforcement moratorium to fully comply with the law, and we expect them to meet the commitments they made when they entered into the agreement. When the Iowa Plan ends, EPA will enforce the Clean Water Act against feedlots that are polluting the nation's waters."

IDNR developed the Iowa Plan in 2001 with input from 11 organizations and agencies, including EPA. It established a five-year enforcement moratorium by IDNR and EPA for feedlots that registered in the Iowa Plan and met specific compliance milestones.

Several hundred cattle feedlots in Iowa are regulated under the Clean Water Act, which requires feedlots to prevent the discharge of all livestock runoff because of the numerous pollutants it contains, often at harmful levels. Illegal runoff from open feedlots has caused a number of fish kills in Iowa in recent years.

Animal wastes are typically high in nutrients, including ammonia and other pollutants, which can cause decreased oxygen levels in receiving waters. These depleted oxygen levels can adversely impact fish and other aquatic life. In addition, ammonia above certain concentrations in surface water is toxic to fish.

Cattle feedlot wastewater may also contain a number of bacterial and viral pathogens (such as E. coli), as well as parasites (such as Cryptosporidium). Illnesses caused by ingestion of these microorganisms can result in gastroenteritis, fever, and kidney failure.
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Maine Oil Facility Faces EPA Fine for Lack of Oil Spill Preparedness


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EPA has proposed a penalty of up to $157,500 against a bulk oil storage and distribution company for failing to plan for and guard against oil spills at its bulk oil storage facility in North Bath, Maine.

 Kaler faces a maximum penalty of $157,500.

An inspector from EPA's New England office inspected the Kaler facility in October and found the company failed to prepare and fully implement the plan.

Because oil spills can cause significant environmental damage to the environment, and particularly to neighboring drinking water wells, EPA's New England Office is very concerned to ensure that facilities handling oils follow established procedures to minimize risks of oil spills. Spill prevention and control laws help ensure that a tank failure or spill does not lead to oil being released into private wells, rivers or streams.
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Menards Faces EPA Administrative Order for Damaging South Dakota Stream



EPA issued an administrative order against Menard, Inc., of Eau Claire, Wis., for damaging a stream in Sioux Falls, S.D. EPA's order cites discharges of dredged and fill material to nearly 1,400 linear feet of stream flowing through Menards' property at 110 N. Highline Avenue in Sioux Falls. The stream is an unnamed tributary of the Big Sioux River.

EPA's Assistant Regional Administrator, Carol Rushin, said, "EPA takes this action to prevent the pollution of the wetlands, lakes, and streams of South Dakota and to provide deterrence against future violations of Federal laws designed to protect valuable water resources."

Aerial photography indicates the unauthorized discharge began prior to August 2003. An inspection conducted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers confirmed that a discharge of fill occurred into an unnamed tributary of the Big Sioux River during construction of a storm water management system and site-grading for the new Menards store.

Specifically, 1,350 feet of the stream were filled and replaced within a 66-inch storm sewer pipe, which was buried. A parking lot was then built over the top of it. An additional 40-feet of the stream was damaged by fill to construct a storm water control structure on the downstream end of the 66-inch storm sewer.

The project was completed in the winter or spring of 2004, and the Menards store is currently open for business. Menards is the third-largest home improvement chain in the U.S., operating approximately 200 retail stores and employing approximately 35,000 people in the Upper Midwest.
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The stream in this area provides important functions including aquatic habitat; an urban wildlife corridor for deer, pheasants, ducks, and other wildlife; and aesthetics. The tributary may also provide habitat for the endangered Topeka shiner (Notropis topeka).

A Corps permit is required before performing any work that results in discharges of dredged or fill material into waters of the U.S., which includes lakes, rivers, streams, and certain wetlands. Property owners, contractors, or developers planning to do any work in such waters should always contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' regulatory office in Pierre, South Dakota, at 605-224-8531 before they begin work to determine if they need a permit.
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New EPA Lead Hazard Information Pamphlet for Renovation Activities


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There is an increased risk of lead-based paint poisoning during renovation activities, particularly to children under 6 years of age. To better inform families about the risks and to encourage greater public health and safety during renovation activities in target housing, EPA has developed a renovation-specific information pamphlet for families. This new pamphlet gives information on lead-based paint hazards in a home, lead testing, how to select a contractor, what precautions to take during the renovation, and proper cleanup activities. EPA is seeking comment on all aspects of the pamphlet's content and design. After reviewing the comments, EPA will publish a final version of the pamphlet that may be used to comply with the requirements of section 406(b) of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).
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EPA to Provide Lead-Based Paint Compliance Assistance in the Macon, GA Area


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Representatives from EPA will be conducting Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rule (Disclosure Rule) compliance assistance in the Macon, Ga. area beginning in March 2006 and throughout the spring. Approximately 70 property owners and landlords in the Macon area received letters from EPA about the requirements of the Disclosure Rule, and EPA will be conducting random inspections later this year.

EPA is performing these Disclosure Rule inspections in an effort to determine how many property owners are currently complying with the Disclosure Rule and to help prevent the occurrence of lead poisoning in Macon area children. A property owner or landlord must disclose any known lead-based paint and/or lead-based paint hazards to a buyer or renter of a property prior to the purchase or lease of a home and must distribute a copy of the pamphlet entitled Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home to buyers and renters of most housing built prior to 1978. 

EPA has chosen Macon for this compliance assistance project because it is one of the older, more populous Georgia cities, increasing the likelihood of a higher concentration of residents living in pre-1978 housing. The Georgia Department of Human Resources estimates that less than 300 children living in pre-1978 housing in Macon and Bibb County were screened for lead during 2005.

Homes built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint. If it is in poor condition, it may pose a hazard if paint chips or lead-contaminated dust or soil is inhaled or ingested. Lead poisoning is one of the most serious environmental health hazards to children, particularly for children under the age of six. Lead may cause a range of health effects, from behavioral problems and learning disabilities, to seizures and death. 

 

 

PA DEP Says Demand for Hybrid Electric Vehicle Rebates Will Soon Exceed Supply of Funds


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Pennsylvania is encouraging hybrid electric and alternative fuel vehicles by offering rebates to motorists who buy and operate them in the commonwealth. The program has been so successful, the state is expect to run out of rebate money sometime in April.
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DEP Secretary Kathleen A. McGinty said the commonwealth already has awarded more than $1.3 million in rebates from the $1.5 million allotted for the program for the 2005-06 fiscal year. Another $1 million will become available for the fiscal year beginning July 1.
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Because buyers have six months from the time of the purchase to apply for the rebates, people buying hybrid electric and alternative fuel vehicles after the current funding runs out still will be able to apply for rebates when the programs reopens.
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"Demand for these rebates clearly shows the public is interested in vehicles that achieve higher fuel efficiency standards and employ alternative fuel technologies," McGinty said. "With each of us demanding low-emissions cars that get better gas mileage, we can lessen our dependence on foreign oil and improve the environment at the same time. I am grateful that Pennsylvania can offer this rebate program again in July."
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DEP will not accept rebate forms from the time current funding runs out until the program reopens. At that time, DEP will determine the amount of the rebate.
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The Hybrid Electric and Alternative Fuel Vehicle Rebates are offered through the Alternative Fuels Incentive Grants (AFIG) program administered by DEP. To qualify for the rebate, the automobile must be registered in Pennsylvania and operated primarily within the commonwealth. The rebates are offered on a first-come, first-served basis throughout the year as long as funds are available.
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Alternative fuels include compressed natural gas, liquefied natural gas, liquid propane gas, ethanol, methanol, hydrogen, coal-derived liquid fuels and fuels derived from biological materials. The use of these fuels offers an alternative to conventional transportation fuels that come primarily from petroleum imported from foreign countries, making AFIG even more significant as increasing energy prices impact consumers, businesses and local governments.
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In 2004, Governor Edward G. Rendell signed into law an act that expanded the AFIG program, including offering the rebate instead of a grant to residents who purchase hybrid electric and alternative fuel vehicles. AFIG also helps residents purchase alternative-fuel vehicles and finances related fuel projects to create new markets that can have measurable impacts on pollution reduction, environmental protection and economic growth.
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Since the inception of the AFIG program in 1992, DEP has awarded $28.7 million for 984 projects in 50 counties. DEP has also awarded $1.2 million since March 2005 to individuals who purchased hybrid electric vehicles. AFIG funds have leveraged more than $78 million from public and private fleet operators, fuel providers and the federal government.
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The AFIG expansion is just one piece of Governor Rendell's vision to create clean, reliable energy from Pennsylvania sources.
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Governor Rendell last year banned the purchase of conventional SUVs for the state vehicle fleet and is building on this initiative with a major effort to replace conventional vehicles with hybrid vehicles. In the coming fiscal year, the state will purchase 30 hybrids and set in motion a process to continually build on this commitment so that by 2011, fully 25 percent of the fleet will be hybrids.
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MD Department of the Environment Outlines Actions to Address Jacksonville ExxonMobil Spill



A major gasoline company will face stiff penalties and all station operators will face even tighter controls on petroleum products following the release of roughly 25,000 gallons of gasoline from a northern Baltimore County service station. Maryland's Department of the Environment (MDE) Secretary and top officials in the state's Oil Control Program announced the actions at a press conference near the affected station this morning.

"MDE is committed to doing all we can, not only to clean up this contamination, but also to prevent such a disaster from occurring again elsewhere in Maryland," said MDE Secretary Kendl P. Philbrick. "Without a clean water supply, the health and vitality of a community is threatened."

"We are quite frankly baffled as to how someone-with all the regulatory controls we have in place-can explain the release of hundreds of gallons per day that went apparently undetected, unreported, and with no intervening action for over a month," the secretary added. "MDE is closely investigating this case and will be taking strong enforcement action against ExxonMobil."

Over the weekend of Feb. 21, MDE, which administers the state's Oil Control Program, responded to the significant leak at the ExxonMobil gasoline station located at the intersection of Jarrettsville Pike (Rt. 145) and Paper Mill Road (Rt. 146). The department is currently overseeing the recovery of an estimated 25,000-gallon release from a regular unleaded gasoline line at the Jacksonville ExxonMobil station.

MDE expects to finalize its investigation within the next few weeks. The department will issue a press release with details of the violations and penalties and when a complaint is filed.

As a result of the incident, MDE is directing all retail gas station owners to verify the proper calibration and operation of their leak detection systems. Additionally, MDE is proposing emergency regulations to further safeguard groundwater supplies across the state that will increase the frequency of leak detection system testing at all retail gasoline outlets in high-risk groundwater use areas and tighten inventory controls and reporting of inventory discrepancies.

"The actions I am proposing today are tough, but necessary," Secretary Philbrick said. "We have learned here that we need additional checks and balances to ensure early knowledge of releases so they can be addressed. We simply cannot compromise the health, the homes, and the livelihood of Maryland's communities by exposing them to disasters like this."

To date, more than 7,500 gallons of unleaded gasoline have been recovered and approximately 112,000 gallons of contaminated groundwater have been recovered. The equivalent of nearly 700 gallons of gasoline vapors have been pumped from the ground as well. Vacuum trucks are operating on a 24-hour basis and a total of 53 monitoring wells have been installed at the site and surrounding properties. Water samples have been collected at 83 properties and to date no gasoline has been detected in drinking water wells of nearby homes.

In addition to the ongoing sampling of existing supply wells, ExxonMobil must also provide MDE with daily status updates on the amount of product recovered and other field activities. ExxonMobil is coordinating their investigation with BP Amoco, a neighboring station that is the source of historical contamination in the area.

MDE has also been working closely with legislators from the area including State Senator Andrew Harris, and State Delegates Rick Impallaria, J.B. Jennings, Wade Kach, and Patrick McDonough - as well as with Baltimore County Councilman Brian McIntire.

 

 

MO DNR Sees Increase in Mercury Incidents across State


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An unusual increase in the number of mercury incidents throughout the state has the Missouri Department of Natural Resources calling on residents to be aware of mercury's risks and health hazards.
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Already this year the department's Environmental Emergency Response (EER) teams have responded to nine mercury incidents, compared to 16 throughout all of 2005, according to Alan Reinkemeyer, director of the department's Environmental Services Program.
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Among the calls thus far in 2006, mercury incidents in Crane, Charleston and Independence, illustrate a familiar scenario. All of the spills involved children or teens who discovered small amounts of mercury and transported it to homes, schools and vehicles. In each case, EER staff led efforts to detect, contain, monitor and clean up the mercury contamination before it could become a greater local public health risk.
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The mercury contamination incidents teach some valuable lessons about mercury spills. "The greatest lesson from the Crane incident is that old mercury needs to be properly disposed of in a timely manner," Reinkemeyer said. "The Charleston spill pointed out how critical it is to notify authorities quickly after any mercury is spilled. It is important for everyone to understand that improper disposal and handling of elemental mercury is dangerous to human health."
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EER was notified Jan. 19 about a mercury release that occurred in Crane. Four children found a bottle of mercury inside a storage building at the Crane swimming pool. The children took the mercury their homes and to two schools, spilling mercury at each location.
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EER and the EPA cleaned and monitored the potentially affected homes, schools and pool area. Mercury vapor levels at two of the three affected homes fell below health-based standards after contaminated clothing was removed from the homes. The third home required more extensive cleanup. Responders had to remove clothing, carpeting and other personal items before the mercury vapor levels dropped to acceptable standards. Air monitoring at the two schools indicated there was no mercury contamination and thus no health risk. An extensive cleanup was also required at the municipal pool.
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On Feb. 15, EER responded to a mercury release that occurred at the Odd Fellows meeting lodge in Charleston. The release had actually taken place Dec. 29, but it was not reported until those responsible realized the potential consequences. Many people were potentially exposed to the mercury while spending time at the lodge during the six-week period.
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The release occurred when some children discovered mercury in the pendulum of an old grandfather clock at the lodge. The children removed the mercury from the clock, played with it in the lodge, and took some home. Lodge members used a standard vacuum cleaner in an effort to clean up the mercury, only making matters worse.
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EER and EPA cleaned and monitored the lodge and approximately 30 homes and vehicles that were potentially affected by the mercury. Highly elevated mercury vapor levels were found in two homes and one vehicle. Based upon the levels, responders immediately evacuated both homes. The homes and vehicle were cleaned and decontaminated.
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Several citizens were medically tested to determine the levels of mercury in their bodies. The Odd Fellows Lodge will remain closed until the cleanup is complete.
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EER and EPA responded March 1 to a mercury release at William Chrisman High School, Independence. A student, who obtained mercury from an unknown source, brought it to school and reportedly gave some to other students.
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The original student's vehicle was heavily contaminated and required extensive cleanup. The department will test the vehicle again to ensure the decontamination was totally effective.
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Based on air monitoring at the school, cleanup needed inside the school was limited to replacement of a trap in a sink where the affected students washed their hands. The quick actions of the school faculty prevented further exposure. After learning of the mercury spill, the facility properly sealed the container and decontaminated the students that were directly involved.
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To report a hazardous substance or mercury spill, any citizen can call the department's Environmental Emergency Response hotline 24 hours a day at (573) 634-2436. 
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MO DNR Encourages Mercury Disposal Options, Spill Hazards and Proper Cleanup


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Schools, businesses, organizations and households can reduce the risk of mercury exposure and possible health concerns by identifying and properly disposing of possible sources, according to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
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An increase in mercury incidents thus far in 2006 has the department warning of the health effects of improper storage or handling of the element.
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Elemental mercury is used in many items such as thermometers, barometers, switches, thermostats, fluorescent lamps, bulk elemental mercury and laboratory reagents in school science labs. Dangerous and costly mercury spills occur from improperly storing and mishandling these items.
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The department is encouraging all Missourians to prevent spills by discontinuing the use of elemental mercury compounds and mercury-containing equipment. Businesses, schools and homes should consider removing these materials and disposing of them in accordance with state and federal regulations. Most items that contain mercury can be replaced with mercury-free (or lower-mercury) alternatives such as: alcohol or other spirit filled or digital thermometers, electronic thermostats and switches; aneroid blood pressure devices; and digital barometers and other gauges.
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The amount of mercury contained in a fever thermometer or school science lab thermometer is small and does not present an immediate threat to human health. However, if broken and not properly cleaned up and disposed of, it may present a health risk over time. Risks particularly affect children less than 12 years old, pregnant women, women who plan to become pregnant and nursing mothers.
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Short-term exposure to high levels of mercury vapors may cause serious health effects including lung damage, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, as well as increases in blood pressure or heart rate, skin rashes and eye irritation. Symptoms from chronic or long-term exposure can develop in just a few weeks. Tremors, decreased eye-hand coordination, memory problems, insomnia and irritability can develop quickly. If these symptoms are not correctly identified and exposure is not prevented, then permanent nervous system damage can occur. For more information on health risks, contact the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services at (573) 751-6102.
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Metallic mercury is liquid at room temperature and has no odor. When spilled, some of the metal will evaporate into the air and can be carried long distances. Mercury is toxic when inhaled. Improper clean up with a vacuum, paintbrush or household cleaner increases exposure by dispersing the mercury into the air.
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The department encourages citizens to use household hazardous waste facilities as the first option to properly disposal of unwanted devices that contain mercury.  It is legal, however, for households to dispose of those devices in their trash destined for a sanitary landfill. Double-bagging is recommended to help limit human exposure during handling. Such items include thermometers, thermostats, barometers, manometers, and mercury-containing lamps.
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Businesses are required to manage wastes noted above, as universal or hazardous waste and sanitary landfill disposal is not an option. Mercury containing laboratory chemicals and jars of elemental mercury cannot be classified as universal waste and must be managed as hazardous waste.
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The Thermostat Recycling Corporation is a not-for-profit corporation that facilitates the HVAC wholesalers' collection of all brands of used, wall-mounted mercury-switch thermostats from contractors. The mercury is then purified for re-use.
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Call the department's Environmental Emergency Response 24-hour hotline at (573) 634-2436 for technical assistance with any mercury cleanup or disposal questions.
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ADEM Emergency Response Crucial in Environmental Incidents


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The Alabama Department of Environmental Management's emergency response capabilities help minimize human health and environmental impacts of natural, manmade, or technological events. ADEM's trained responders are available 24-hours-per-day, seven-days-per-week to promptly engage and act decisively in emergencies involving transportation, industry, or storm-related spills or releases.
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The department has field offices in Birmingham, Decatur, Mobile and Montgomery staffed with environmental engineers and scientists who perform more than 370 emergency responses a year and work very closely with state and county emergency management agencies.
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"We take very seriously our emergency response duties," said ADEM Director Trey Glenn. "Our responders are well trained and help local emergency officials deal with incidents that may impact the environment."
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ADEM emergency responders serve as on-scene coordinators for assessment and cleanup of hazardous materials on Alabama's road and rail systems and industrial facilities. The department gives technical advice to cities and counties to identify and direct the containment, treatment, removal and proper disposal of hazardous materials.
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Hurricane and severe weather-related emergency response operations routinely include interaction with all ADEM divisions to conduct oil and hazardous materials assessment and recovery operations. Daily assessments are made of impacted drinking water and wastewater systems and industrial facilities to help them stay abreast of rapidly changing conditions. ADEM scientists also conduct comprehensive monitoring and testing to determine water quality.
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The department recently received a commendation from the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality for ADEM's emergency response, rescue, and cleanup assistance in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
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Immediate Removal of PCB-Contaminated Concrete Ordered from Redevelopment Sites


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New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Lisa P. Jackson ordered Ford Motor Company and its contractors to immediately remove concrete tainted with traces of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from seven New Jersey redevelopment sites.
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"In no uncertain terms, we are holding Ford Motor Co. and its contractors fully accountable for illegally distributing and using PCB-contaminated concrete at these sites. Not only will all potentially hazardous material be removed, we intend to make sure they follow the strictest environmental controls during those cleanups," Commissioner Jackson said.
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Though the DEP determined the concrete contains very low levels of PCB contamination, use of the material at redevelopment sites in Mercer, Middlesex and Ocean counties has generated considerable concern among residents.
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"I think it's imperative we do our utmost to restore the public's trust in our commitment to safeguarding their health and protecting the environment. To that end, I have put all DEP inspectors on notice we are escalating surveillance at all New Jersey disposal and recycling operations -- including unannounced inspections. If any violations are found, fines and penalties will be issued without hesitation," Commissioner Jackson said.
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The commissioner's call to action comes less than a week after municipal officials and community representatives raised questions about the concrete trucked to seven redevelopment sites from Ford's now-defunct plant in Edison. Following the shutdown and sale of the facility, Ford hired contractors to remediate the property and prepare it for redevelopment by demolishing and removing buildings on the site, including concrete floor slabs.
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In February 2004, Ford contracted with MIG Alberici Inc. of Detroit to perform the demolition. Alberici planned to reuse the concrete from the site for roads and other fill projects on the Ford property. In November 2004, Alberici obtained the DEP's approval to use the concrete after testing it for contamination, specifically PCBs, and determining the material did not have detectable levels. According to the DEP's cleanup criteria, concentrations of PCBs less than 0.49 parts per million allowed for unrestricted use at the Ford plant site. However, subsequent material sampling revealed PCB contamination ranging from undetectable to 2 ppm.
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Under the DEP's administrative order, Ford must submit a plan within seven days for complete removal and proper disposal of all contaminated concrete material transported to development sites across the state. These sites include: American Standard site in Hamilton Township and a West Windsor Township site, Mercer County; Fulton Square site in New Brunswick; the former Tingley Rubber Co. in South Plainfield; the Applegarth site in Monroe Township, all Middlesex County; and Laurelton Mobile Home Park and the Brick 70 Plaza site, both in Brick Township, Ocean County.
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Ford must remove all concrete material from each site within 30 days after the DEP approves each cleanup plan. The DEP's order also requires Ford's removal plan to include the following:

  • A dust-control management plan for any dust emissions generated during removal and disposal;
  • A real-time air sampling plan that will monitor air emissions at the specific locations at the perimeter of each site;
  • A truck-washing system to prevent any material from leaving each site;
  • A mechanism to shut down all activity related to the concrete removal if the DEP verifies any problems with the dust management system or if an air monitoring system detects specific standard violations.

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After all the concrete is removed, Ford must conduct post-excavation sampling at each site and prepare a final report on all measures taken to eliminate possible exposure from the concrete removal. Specifically, the report must provide information on the effectiveness of the dust management plan and sampling results from perimeter monitoring. Further, the report, which will be provided to local officials in each of the affected municipalities, will identify the quantity and locations of the material used at each site.
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25 Million Pounds of Mercury-Containing Waste Disposed of as Debris-Mercury Not Recovered


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According to The Association of Lighting and Mercury Recyclers, a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report details the 2003 disposal of over 25 million pounds of hazardous mercury wastes using a major "loophole" in federal hazardous waste rules. The loophole is for wastes that are too big to fit through a 2 inch opening (60 millimeters), no matter how much mercury they contain.
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The loophole in EPA rules allows hazardous waste generators to landfill mercury wastes without determining the mercury content of the wastes or assuring that the wastes were safely treated prior to land disposal. Most critically, the loophole allowed waste generators to avoid the requirement that mercury be removed from the most highly contaminated mercury hazardous wastes prior to landfilling.
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The GAO determined the EPA cannot effectively confirm that businesses are properly managing their mercury-containing waste. They found that EPA data does not describe the treatment standard used for most mercury contaminated debris. Additionally, GAO surveys of state regulators and hazardous waste landfill owners revealed confusion about mercury waste disposal rules. This is particularly problematic, the GAO found, if highly contaminated mercury wastes are not treated and disposed of properly.
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"If the goal is to keep mercury out of the environment the regulations clearly do not do that- there are too many exemptions" said Paul Abernathy, Executive Director, Association of Lighting and Mercury Recyclers. "It is extremely important to have precise regulations outlining the proper management and disposal of this toxic material as a proactive approach to maintaining a clean environment and protecting public health."
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Improper disposal of mercury waste is problematic because of mercury's tendency to evaporate, migrate and enter the water supply, which can contaminate fish, wildlife and potentially humans.
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The GAO determined the main source of the waste was not hazardous mercury material spills and cleanup sites, as was expected, but rather the result of intermittent events, such as the demolition of production plants, and routine industrial processes, such as replacing pipes in a chlorine plant. These generators were not required to comply with strict mercury treatment regulations and were instead allowed to landfill their wastes under more lenient standards for debris. According to the ALMR "it does not make sense to regulate or exempt a toxic material based on how big or little it is. The mercury should be recovered, period."
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Nationwide, there is much confusion as to what qualifies as debris. The GAO conducted a survey in 48 states asking various authorities and waste disposal professionals their interpretations of the EPA's regulations. Of those surveyed, 21 states misinterpreted the regulations. Some states failed to recognize that wastes like mercury-containing thermometers and fluorescent lamps are not debris.
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According to The Association of Lighting and Mercury Recyclers, an increasing amount of mercury hazardous wastes being landfilled each year. In 2003 alone, mercury hazardous waste disposal in landfills had tripled that of previous years. "We seem to be going the wrong way," Abernathy said. "We are certainly supportive of states, members of Congress and the EPA working together to close this loophole for highly contaminated mercury wastes.
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Exposure to mercury contaminants have been linked to a number of health-related problems such as damage to the kidneys, neurological system and unborn fetuses. It is also possible for people to develop mercury poisoning in cases of extreme exposure.
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The Association of Lighting and Mercury Recyclers is a non-profit, educational and informational resource to government agencies, municipal authorities, industries and other business entities, Universal Waste handlers, generators, environmental groups and industry trade organizations.
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High-Tech Toxic Trash Exported to Africa


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A new investigation by the toxic trade watchdog organization, Basel Action Network (BAN), has revealed that large quantities of obsolete computers, televisions, mobile phones, and other used electronic equipment exported from USA and Europe to Lagos, Nigeria for "re-use and repair" are ending up gathering dust in warehouses or being dumped and burned near residences in empty lots, roadsides and in swamps creating serious health and environmental contamination from the toxic leachate and smoke.
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The photo-documentary report entitled "The Digital Dump: Exporting High-Tech Re-use and Abuse to Africa," exposes the ugly underbelly of what is thought to be an escalating global trade in toxic, obsolete, discarded computers and other e-scrap collected in North America and Europe and sent to developing countries by waste brokers and so-called recyclers. In Lagos, while there is a legitimate robust market and ability to repair and refurbish old electronic equipment including computers, monitors, TVs and cell phones, the local experts complain that of the estimated 500 40-foot containers shipped to Lagos each month, as much as 75% of the imports are "junk" and are not economically repairable or marketable. Consequently, this e-waste, which is legally a hazardous waste is being discarded and routinely burned in what the environmentalists call yet "another cyber-age nightmare now landing on the shores of developing countries."á "Re-use is a good thing, bridging the digital divide is a good thing, but exporting loads of technotrash in the name of these lofty ideals and seriously damaging the environment and health of poor communities in developing countries is criminal," said Jim Puckett, coordinator of BAN who led the field investigation.
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The report includes evidence of numerous computer identification tags from schools and government agencies as well as forensic examinations of hard-drives picked up by BAN in Lagos, revealing very personal information about their previous owners.. According to BAN, much of this trade is illegal under international rules governing trade in toxic waste such as the Basel Convention, but governments, particularly the United States refuses to ratify, implement or properly enforce these rules for toxic electronic waste. Proper enforcement of these rules would require all such e-scrap exports, whole or in parts to be properly tested for functionality and certified to be going to re-use destinations rather than for disposal or recycling.
"Things are completely out of control," said Puckett.
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Following the publication of a report on their previous investigation in China, entitled Exporting Harm: The High-Tech Trashing of Asia, BAN, together with the Computer TakeBack Campaign has initiated the E-Stewards Program in North America with now over 30 member recycling companies that have pledged to uphold the world's most rigorous standards for social and environmental responsibility in e-waste management. 
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Anti-Idling Laws to be Updated


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EPA Region 3's Air Protection Division staff will deliver a presentation to state air toxics representatives and the Mid-Atlantic Regional Air Management Association in order to help develop a model anti-idling regulation for the states. At present, there is a patchwork of anti-idling laws differing from state to state in terms of engine idling time limits and exemptions that is confusing to the nation's truck drivers. EPA Region 3 will work with states and the trucking industry to establish more uniform guidelines in anti-idling laws.
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Most Environment-Friendly Vehicles Listed


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The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) announced the year's "greenest" and "meanest" vehicles, along with the environmental scorings of all model year 2006 cars and passenger trucks. 
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 In second place is the natural gas-powered Honda Civic GX, while the Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Hybrid, and Toyota Corolla round out the top five. Although the Ford Escape Hybrid - last year's notable newcomer - was pushed off this year's top twelve list by a number of new, low-emitting conventional cars, hybrids as a whole continue to perform well, taking three of the top four spots overall and placing at or near the top of many vehicle classes.
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 Passenger cars such as the Hyundai Sonata and Ford Focus Wagon also top their respective classes. As the list demonstrates, consumers can make "greener choices," whether they need a sedan, minivan, pickup truck, or SUV.
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While keeping pace with increasingly stringent federal tailpipe emissions requirements, U.S. manufacturers captured the top scoring position in only four of the fourteen vehicle classes. "Unfortunately, the domestic manufacturers are not closing the gap with the leading foreign manufacturers on fuel economy," noted Therese Langer, ACEEE's Transportation Program Director. "Detroit has had a difficult year, but given high gasoline prices and shifting consumer preferences, offering more fuel-efficient vehicles is not a luxury - it's a business necessity."
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. Rounding out the "bottom 5" are the Lamborghini Murcielago, Bentley Arnage, Dodge Durango, and Dodge Ram 1500 pickup. Other prominent models on the "meanest" list include the Hummer H2, Ford F-250 pickup, GMC Yukon XL K2500, Volkswagen Touareg, and Chevrolet Suburban K2500.
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"Last month, the Energy Department almost doubled its long-term oil price forecast," noted Bill Prindle, ACEEE's Policy Director. "That means gasoline prices will continue their upward trend. At the same time, the signs of global warming are clearer than ever. Simply by choosing the most efficient vehicle in each class, we could cut our average gasoline bill by $510 a year, while cutting carbon emissions more than 30%. So whether it's for your pocketbook or for the planet, there has never been a better time to buy a green vehicle."
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Trivia Question of the Week

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Under the Federal EPA hazardous waste regulations, a small quantity generator cannot accumulate more than how much hazardous waste at any one time?
a.á 55 gallons
b.á 1000 kg
c.áá 6000 kg
d.á 100 kg
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