Bridgeton Landfill Air Monitoring

Follow-Up Review of Air Monitoring Data - December 2013

Follow-Up Review of Air Sampling Data

Follow-Up Review of Air Monitoring Data

December 26 - January 2, 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 December 26, 2013 to the afternoon of January 2, 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 at one location. While exposure to elevated levels of sulfur dioxide may cause irritation or other short-term symptoms, considerable dispersion is expected to reduce potential exposure to below levels of public health concern in nearby residential areas.

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.

December 23 - 26

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 December 23 to the afternoon of December 26, 2013.

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 several hours at one location. While exposure to elevated levels of sulfur dioxide may cause irritation or other short-term symptoms, considerable dispersion is expected to reduce potential exposure below levels of public health concern in nearby residential areas.

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.

December 19 - 23

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 December 19 to the afternoon of December 23, 2013.

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. Strong odors were reported on one day at a location north of the landfill. 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 several hours at one location. While exposure to elevated levels of sulfur dioxide may cause irritation or other short-term symptoms, considerable dispersion is expected to reduce potential exposure below levels of public health concern in nearby residential areas.

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.

December 16 - 19

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 December 16 to the afternoon of December 19, 2013.

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 a limited time period at one location. While exposure to elevated levels of sulfur dioxide may cause irritation or other short-term symptoms, considerable dispersion is expected to reduce potential exposure below levels of public health concern in nearby residential areas.

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.

December 12 - 16

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 December 12 to the afternoon of December 16, 2013.

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 several hours at one location. While exposure to elevated levels of sulfur dioxide may cause irritation or other short-term symptoms, considerable dispersion is expected to reduce potential exposure below levels of public health concern in nearby residential areas.

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.

December 9 - 12

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 December 9 to the afternoon of December 12, 2013.

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 was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance locations around the landfill during this time period. 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 screening levels, except for several hours at one location. While exposure to elevated levels of sulfur dioxide may cause irritation or other short-term symptoms, considerable dispersion is expected to reduce potential exposure below levels of public health concern in nearby residential areas.

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.

December 5 - 9

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 December 5 to the afternoon of December 9, 2013.

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 locations south and southwest of the landfill 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 was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance locations around the landfill during this time period. 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 screening levels, except for several hours at one location. While exposure to elevated levels of sulfur dioxide may cause irritation or other short-term symptoms, considerable dispersion is expected to reduce potential exposure below levels of public health concern in nearby residential areas.

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.

December 2 - 5

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  December 2 to the afternoon of December 5, 2013.

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 locations north, northeast, east and southeast of the landfill 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

Average hydrogen sulfide concentrations were below levels of public health concern. These levels were taken 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.

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.

November 25 - December 2

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 November 25 to the afternoon of December 2, 2013.

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 throughout 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

Average hydrogen sulfide concentrations were below levels of public health concern. These levels were taken 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 screening levels, except for one hour at one location. While exposure to elevated levels of sulfur dioxide may cause irritation or other short-term symptoms, considerable dispersion is expected to reduce potential exposure below levels of public health concern in nearby residential areas.

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

December 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 December 25, 2013. 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, 7 VOCs were detected in ambient air in concentrations that generally exceeded concentrations detected upwind of the landfill. VOC concentrations ranged from 0.15 parts per billion (ppb) to 1.6 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.

December 15

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 December 15, 2013. Samples were collected at three locations downwind of the landfill for laboratory determination of concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Due to winds shifting during the sample collection period, all samples were considered to be from downwind locations; therefore, no samples were designated as upwind samples for this sampling event. 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, 7 VOCs were detected in ambient air, which ranged in concentration from 0.18 parts per billion (ppb) to 5.0 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.

December 11

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 December 11, 2013. 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, 5 VOCs were detected in ambient air in concentrations that generally exceeded concentrations detected upwind of the landfill. VOC concentrations ranged from 0.22 parts per billion (ppb) to 2.6 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.

December 3

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 December 3, 2013. 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, 14 VOCs were detected in ambient air in concentrations that generally exceeded concentrations detected upwind of the landfill. VOC concentrations ranged from 0.24 parts per billion (ppb) to 5.3 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.