Bridgeton Landfill Air Monitoring

Follow-Up Review of Air Monitoring Data - April 2014

Follow-Up Review of Air Sampling Data

Follow-Up Review of Air Monitoring Data

April 28 - May 1

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality monitoring data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill from the afternoon of April 28 to the afternoon of May 1, 2014.

DNR provides continuous monitoring data for reduced sulfur compounds (reported as hydrogen sulfide), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and total volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at three fixed locations as well as routine, twice daily, surveillance of hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and odor levels around the entire periphery of the landfill. DHSS has reviewed both sets of data to identify potential public health concerns for short-term health effects. Generally, samples are collected near the property boundary and dispersion is expected to reduce exposure downwind of the sample locations.

Odors

DNR reported occasional light and moderate odors at various locations during this time period. DHSS continues to recommend that during periods of objectionable odor, sensitive individuals should stay indoors as much as possible, avoid outdoor exercise, and seek medical advice for any acute symptoms. Symptoms associated with exposure to strong odors include headache, nausea, and fatigue. Symptoms generally associated with strong odors typically disappear once the odors dissipate.

Hydrogen Sulfide and Other Reduced Sulfur Compounds

Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were below levels of public health concern. Hydrogen sulfide levels are measured by the highly sensitive Jerome meter, which detects hydrogen sulfide specifically. Reduced sulfur compounds were periodically detected by AreaRAE monitors, but previous sampling has shown that these detections are primarily due to a reduced sulfur compound with strong odor but lower toxicity.

Sulfur Dioxide

Sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern.

Benzene and Total VOCs

Benzene was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance locations around the landfill during this time period. There are no health-based screening values for total VOCs. However, total VOC data are used to identify the need for compound-specific sampling. To be proactive, DNR is performing weekly VOC compound-specific sampling in locations upwind and downwind of the landfill. The laboratory results are submitted for DHSS review of public health concerns and that analysis is regularly posted online.

Carbon Monoxide

Average carbon monoxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern.

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates continue to be indistinguishable from natural background levels and were below levels of public health concern.

April 24 - 28

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality monitoring data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill from the afternoon of April 24 to the afternoon of April 28, 2014.

DNR provides continuous monitoring data for reduced sulfur compounds (reported as hydrogen sulfide), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and total volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at three fixed locations as well as routine, twice daily, surveillance of hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and odor levels around the entire periphery of the landfill. DHSS has reviewed both sets of data to identify potential public health concerns for short-term health effects. Generally, samples are collected near the property boundary and dispersion is expected to reduce exposure downwind of the sample locations.

Odors

DNR reported occasional light and moderate odors at various locations during this time period. DHSS continues to recommend that during periods of objectionable odor, sensitive individuals should stay indoors as much as possible, avoid outdoor exercise, and seek medical advice for any acute symptoms. Symptoms associated with exposure to strong odors include headache, nausea, and fatigue. Symptoms generally associated with strong odors typically disappear once the odors dissipate.

Hydrogen Sulfide and Other Reduced Sulfur Compounds

Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were below levels of public health concern. Hydrogen sulfide levels are measured by the highly sensitive Jerome meter, which detects hydrogen sulfide specifically. Reduced sulfur compounds were periodically detected by AreaRAE monitors, but previous sampling has shown that these detections are primarily due to a reduced sulfur compound with strong odor but lower toxicity.

Sulfur Dioxide

Sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern.

Benzene and Total VOCs

Benzene was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance locations around the landfill during this time period. There are no health-based screening values for total VOCs. However, total VOC data are used to identify the need for compound-specific sampling. To be proactive, DNR is performing weekly VOC compound-specific sampling in locations upwind and downwind of the landfill. The laboratory results are submitted for DHSS review of public health concerns and that analysis is regularly posted online.

Carbon Monoxide

Average carbon monoxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern.

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates continue to be indistinguishable from natural background levels and were below levels of public health concern.

April 21 - 24

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality monitoring data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill from the afternoon of April 21 to the afternoon of April 24, 2014.

DNR provides continuous monitoring data for reduced sulfur compounds (reported as hydrogen sulfide), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and total volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at three fixed locations as well as routine, twice daily, surveillance of hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and odor levels around the entire periphery of the landfill. DHSS has reviewed both sets of data to identify potential public health concerns for short-term health effects. Generally, samples are collected near the property boundary and dispersion is expected to reduce exposure downwind of the sample locations.

Odors

DNR reported occasional light and moderate odors at various locations during this time period. DHSS continues to recommend that during periods of objectionable odor, sensitive individuals should stay indoors as much as possible, avoid outdoor exercise, and seek medical advice for any acute symptoms. Symptoms associated with exposure to strong odors include headache, nausea, and fatigue. Symptoms generally associated with strong odors typically disappear once the odors dissipate.

Hydrogen Sulfide and Other Reduced Sulfur Compounds

Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were below levels of public health concern. Hydrogen sulfide levels are measured by the highly sensitive Jerome meter, which detects hydrogen sulfide specifically. Reduced sulfur compounds were periodically detected by AreaRAE monitors, but previous sampling has shown that these detections are primarily due to a reduced sulfur compound with strong odor but lower toxicity.

Sulfur Dioxide

Sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern.

Benzene and Total VOCs

Benzene was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance locations around the landfill during this time period. There are no health-based screening values for total VOCs. However, total VOC data are used to identify the need for compound-specific sampling. To be proactive, DNR is performing weekly VOC compound-specific sampling in locations upwind and downwind of the landfill. The laboratory results are submitted for DHSS review of public health concerns and that analysis is regularly posted online.

Carbon Monoxide

Average carbon monoxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern.

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates continue to be indistinguishable from natural background levels and were below levels of public health concern.

April 17 - 21

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality monitoring data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill from the afternoon of April 17 to the afternoon of April 21, 2014.

DNR provides continuous monitoring data for reduced sulfur compounds (reported as hydrogen sulfide), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and total volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at three fixed locations as well as routine, twice daily, surveillance of hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and odor levels around the entire periphery of the landfill. DHSS has reviewed both sets of data to identify potential public health concerns for short-term health effects. Generally, samples are collected near the property boundary and dispersion is expected to reduce exposure downwind of the sample locations.

Odors

DNR reported occasional light odors at various locations during this time period. DHSS continues to recommend that during periods of objectionable odor, sensitive individuals should stay indoors as much as possible, avoid outdoor exercise, and seek medical advice for any acute symptoms. Symptoms associated with exposure to strong odors include headache, nausea, and fatigue. Symptoms generally associated with strong odors typically disappear once the odors dissipate.

Hydrogen Sulfide and Other Reduced Sulfur Compounds

Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were below levels of public health concern. Hydrogen sulfide levels are measured by the highly sensitive Jerome meter, which detects hydrogen sulfide specifically. Reduced sulfur compounds were periodically detected by AreaRAE monitors, but previous sampling has shown that these detections are primarily due to a reduced sulfur compound with strong odor but lower toxicity.

Sulfur Dioxide

Sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern.

Benzene and Total VOCs

Benzene was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance locations around the landfill during this time period. There are no health-based screening values for total VOCs. However, total VOC data are used to identify the need for compound-specific sampling. To be proactive, DNR is performing weekly VOC compound-specific sampling in locations upwind and downwind of the landfill. The laboratory results are submitted for DHSS review of public health concerns and that analysis is regularly posted online.

Carbon Monoxide

Average carbon monoxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern.

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates continue to be indistinguishable from natural background levels and were below levels of public health concern.

April 14 - 17

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality monitoring data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill from the afternoon of April 14 to the afternoon of April 17, 2014.

DNR provides continuous monitoring data for reduced sulfur compounds (reported as hydrogen sulfide), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and total volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at three fixed locations as well as routine, twice daily, surveillance of hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and odor levels around the entire periphery of the landfill. DHSS has reviewed both sets of data to identify potential public health concerns for short-term health effects. Generally, samples are collected near the property boundary and dispersion is expected to reduce exposure downwind of the sample locations.

Odors

DNR reported occasional light odors at various locations during this time period. DHSS continues to recommend that during periods of objectionable odor, sensitive individuals should stay indoors as much as possible, avoid outdoor exercise, and seek medical advice for any acute symptoms. Symptoms associated with exposure to strong odors include headache, nausea, and fatigue. Symptoms generally associated with strong odors typically disappear once the odors dissipate.

Hydrogen Sulfide and Other Reduced Sulfur Compounds

Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were below levels of public health concern. Hydrogen sulfide levels are measured by the highly sensitive Jerome meter, which detects hydrogen sulfide specifically. Reduced sulfur compounds were periodically detected by AreaRAE monitors, but previous sampling has shown that these detections are primarily due to a reduced sulfur compound with strong odor but lower toxicity.

Sulfur Dioxide

Sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern.

Benzene and Total VOCs

Benzene was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance locations around the landfill during this time period, except at a gas station where several trucks were idling and likely producing increased concentrations of benzene in the air at that location. There are no health-based screening values for total VOCs. However, total VOC data are used to identify the need for compound-specific sampling. To be proactive, DNR is performing weekly VOC compound-specific sampling in locations upwind and downwind of the landfill. The laboratory results are submitted for DHSS review of public health concerns and that analysis is regularly posted online.

Carbon Monoxide

Average carbon monoxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern.

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates continue to be indistinguishable from natural background levels and were below levels of public health concern.

April 10 - 14

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality monitoring data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill from the afternoon of April 10 to the afternoon of April 14, 2014.

DNR provides continuous monitoring data for reduced sulfur compounds (reported as hydrogen sulfide), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and total volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at three fixed locations as well as routine, twice daily, surveillance of hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and odor levels around the entire periphery of the landfill. DHSS has reviewed both sets of data to identify potential public health concerns for short-term health effects. Generally, samples are collected near the property boundary and dispersion is expected to reduce exposure downwind of the sample locations.

Odors

DNR reported occasional light to strong odors at various locations during this time period. DHSS continues to recommend that during periods of objectionable odor, sensitive individuals should stay indoors as much as possible, avoid outdoor exercise, and seek medical advice for any acute symptoms. Symptoms associated with exposure to strong odors include headache, nausea, and fatigue. Symptoms generally associated with strong odors typically disappear once the odors dissipate.

Hydrogen Sulfide and Other Reduced Sulfur Compounds

Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were below levels of public health concern. Hydrogen sulfide levels are measured by the highly sensitive Jerome meter, which detects hydrogen sulfide specifically. Reduced sulfur compounds were periodically detected by AreaRAE monitors, but previous sampling has shown that these detections are primarily due to a reduced sulfur compound with strong odor but lower toxicity.

Sulfur Dioxide

Sulfur dioxide was not detected in ambient air at any of the monitoring locations around the landfill during this time period.

Benzene and Total VOCs

Benzene was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance locations around the landfill during this time period. There are no health-based screening values for total VOCs. However, total VOC data are used to identify the need for compound-specific sampling. To be proactive, DNR is performing weekly VOC compound-specific sampling in locations upwind and downwind of the landfill. The laboratory results are submitted for DHSS review of public health concerns and that analysis is regularly posted online.

Carbon Monoxide

Average carbon monoxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern.

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates continue to be indistinguishable from natural background levels and were below levels of public health concern.

April 7 - 10

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality monitoring data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill from the afternoon of April 7 to the afternoon of April 10, 2014.

DNR provides continuous monitoring data for reduced sulfur compounds (reported as hydrogen sulfide), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and total volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at three fixed locations as well as routine, twice daily, surveillance of hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and odor levels around the entire periphery of the landfill. DHSS has reviewed both sets of data to identify potential public health concerns for short-term health effects. Generally, samples are collected near the property boundary and dispersion is expected to reduce exposure downwind of the sample locations.

Odors

DNR reported occasional light to moderate odors at various locations during this time period. DHSS continues to recommend that during periods of objectionable odor, sensitive individuals should stay indoors as much as possible, avoid outdoor exercise, and seek medical advice for any acute symptoms. Symptoms associated with exposure to strong odors include headache, nausea, and fatigue. Symptoms generally associated with strong odors typically disappear once the odors dissipate.

Hydrogen Sulfide and Other Reduced Sulfur Compounds

Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were below levels of public health concern. Hydrogen sulfide levels are measured by the highly sensitive Jerome meter, which detects hydrogen sulfide specifically. Reduced sulfur compounds were periodically detected by AreaRAE monitors, but previous sampling has shown that these detections are primarily due to a reduced sulfur compound with strong odor but lower toxicity.

Sulfur Dioxide

Sulfur dioxide was not detected in ambient air at any of the monitoring locations around the landfill during this time period.

Benzene and Total VOCs

Benzene was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance locations around the landfill during this time period. There are no health-based screening values for total VOCs. However, total VOC data are used to identify the need for compound-specific sampling. To be proactive, DNR is performing weekly VOC compound-specific sampling in locations upwind and downwind of the landfill. The laboratory results are submitted for DHSS review of public health concerns and that analysis is regularly posted online.

Carbon Monoxide

Average carbon monoxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern.

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates continue to be indistinguishable from natural background levels and were below levels of public health concern.

April 3 - 7

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality monitoring data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill from the afternoon of April 3 to the afternoon of April 7, 2014.

DNR provides continuous monitoring data for reduced sulfur compounds (reported as hydrogen sulfide), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and total volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at three fixed locations as well as routine, twice daily, surveillance of hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and odor levels around the entire periphery of the landfill. DHSS has reviewed both sets of data to identify potential public health concerns for short-term health effects. Generally, samples are collected near the property boundary and dispersion is expected to reduce exposure downwind of the sample locations.

Odors

DNR reported occasional light to moderate odors at various locations during this time period. DHSS continues to recommend that during periods of objectionable odor, sensitive individuals should stay indoors as much as possible, avoid outdoor exercise, and seek medical advice for any acute symptoms. Symptoms associated with exposure to strong odors include headache, nausea, and fatigue. Symptoms generally associated with strong odors typically disappear once the odors dissipate.

Hydrogen Sulfide and Other Reduced Sulfur Compounds

Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were below levels of public health concern. Hydrogen sulfide levels are measured by the highly sensitive Jerome meter, which detects hydrogen sulfide specifically. Reduced sulfur compounds were periodically detected by AreaRAE monitors, but previous sampling has shown that these detections are primarily due to a reduced sulfur compound with strong odor but lower toxicity.

Sulfur Dioxide

Sulfur dioxide was not detected in ambient air at any of the monitoring locations around the landfill during this time period.

Benzene and Total VOCs

Benzene was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance locations around the landfill during this time period. There are no health-based screening values for total VOCs. However, total VOC data are used to identify the need for compound-specific sampling. To be proactive, DNR is performing weekly VOC compound-specific sampling in locations upwind and downwind of the landfill. The laboratory results are submitted for DHSS review of public health concerns and that analysis is regularly posted online.

Carbon Monoxide

Average carbon monoxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern.

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates continue to be indistinguishable from natural background levels and were below levels of public health concern.

March 31 - April 3, 2014

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality monitoring data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill from the afternoon of March 31 to the afternoon of April 3, 2014.

DNR provides continuous monitoring data for reduced sulfur compounds (reported as hydrogen sulfide), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and total volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at three fixed locations as well as routine, twice daily, surveillance of hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and odor levels around the entire periphery of the landfill. DHSS has reviewed both sets of data to identify potential public health concerns for short-term health effects. Generally, samples are collected near the property boundary and dispersion is expected to reduce exposure downwind of the sample locations.

Odors

DNR reported occasional light, moderate, and strong odors at various locations during this time period. DHSS continues to recommend that during periods of objectionable odor, sensitive individuals should stay indoors as much as possible, avoid outdoor exercise, and seek medical advice for any acute symptoms. Symptoms associated with exposure to strong odors include headache, nausea, and fatigue. Symptoms generally associated with strong odors typically disappear once the odors dissipate.

Hydrogen Sulfide and Other Reduced Sulfur Compounds

Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were below levels of public health concern. Hydrogen sulfide levels are measured by the highly sensitive Jerome meter, which detects hydrogen sulfide specifically. Reduced sulfur compounds were periodically detected by AreaRAE monitors, but previous sampling has shown that these detections are primarily due to a reduced sulfur compound with strong odor but lower toxicity.

Sulfur Dioxide

Average sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern, except for one hour on March 31 at one monitoring location in a residential area southeast of the landfill. Exposure to the elevated levels of sulfur dioxide shown on that one monitor may cause respiratory irritation or other short-term symptoms, particularly in asthmatics or other sensitive individuals. Winds were from the south and southwest on March 31. This may indicate that sources other than the landfill contributed to these elevated levels, or that the readings were otherwise unreliable.

Benzene and Total VOCs

Benzene was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance locations around the landfill during this time period. There are no health-based screening values for total VOCs. However, total VOC data are used to identify the need for compound-specific sampling. To be proactive, DNR is performing weekly VOC compound-specific sampling in locations upwind and downwind of the landfill. The laboratory results are submitted for DHSS review of public health concerns and that analysis is regularly posted online.

Carbon Monoxide

Average carbon monoxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern.

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates continue to be indistinguishable from natural background levels and were below levels of public health concern.

Follow-Up Review of Air Sampling Data

April 30

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air sample data collected for the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) near Bridgeton Landfill on April 30, 2014. Samples were collected at one location upwind of the landfill and one location downwind of the landfill for laboratory determination of concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). DHSS has reviewed this data for evaluation of potential public health concerns of short-term health effects.

VOCs

Concentrations of VOCs were well below levels of public health concern. Downwind of the landfill, 6 VOCs were detected in ambient air in concentrations that generally exceeded concentrations detected upwind of the landfill. VOC concentrations ranged from 0.2 parts per billion (ppb) to 9.6 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.

April 25

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air sample data collected for the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) near Bridgeton Landfill on April 25, 2014. Samples were collected at two locations upwind of the landfill and two locations downwind of the landfill for laboratory determination of concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). DHSS has reviewed this data for evaluation of potential public health concerns of short-term health effects.

VOCs

Concentrations of VOCs were well below levels of public health concern.  Downwind of the landfill, 4 VOCs were detected in ambient air in concentrations that generally exceeded concentrations detected upwind of the landfill. VOC concentrations ranged from 0.18 parts per billion (ppb) to 3.8 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.

April 8

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air sample data collected for the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) near Bridgeton Landfill on April 8, 2014. Samples were collected at one location upwind of the landfill and one location downwind of the landfill for laboratory determination of concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). DHSS has reviewed this data for evaluation of potential public health concerns of short-term health effects.

VOCs

Concentrations of VOCs were well below levels of public health concern. Downwind of the landfill, 4 VOCs were detected in ambient air, which ranged in concentration from 0.19 parts per billion (ppb) to 2.2 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.

April 6

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air sample data collected for the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) near Bridgeton Landfill on April 6, 2014. Samples were collected at two locations upwind of the landfill and two locations downwind of the landfill for laboratory determination of concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). DHSS has reviewed this data for evaluation of potential public health concerns of short-term health effects.

VOCs

Concentrations of VOCs were well below levels of public health concern. Downwind of the landfill, 4 VOCs were detected in ambient air, which ranged in concentration from 0.19 parts per billion (ppb) to 3.4 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.