Bridgeton Landfill Air Monitoring
Follow-Up Review of Air Monitoring Data
- February 27 - March 3
- February 24 - 27
- February 20 - 24
- February 17 - 20
- February 13 - 17
- February 10 - 13
- February 6 - 10
- February 3 - 6
- January 30 - February 3
Follow-Up Review of Air Sampling Data
Follow-Up Review of Air Monitoring Data
February 27 - March 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 February 27 to the afternoon of March 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. On the morning of March 3, DNR performed surveillance around the landfill using hand-held monitors, as the fixed monitor instruments were inoperable due to extreme weather conditions. 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.
During this time period, Bridgeton Landfill notified DNR of equipment failure on a gas extraction well (GEW-30R) located on the southeast portion of the landfill. On March 1 and 2, Bridgeton Landfill worked to contain the release of landfill gases and strong odors resulting from this equipment failure. In early morning on March 2, Bridgeton Landfill reported completion of this work.
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 on March 1 in one monitoring location in a residential area southeast of the landfill. Exposure to these elevated levels of sulfur dioxide may cause respiratory irritation or other short-term symptoms, particularly in asthmatics or other sensitive individuals.
Note: For more information on these sulfur dioxide readings, see the message for March 13 - March 17, 2014.
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.
February 24 - 27, 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 February 24 to the afternoon of February 27, 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.
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.
February 20 - 24, 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 February 20 to the afternoon of February 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, 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
Sulfur dioxide was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance 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.
February 17 - 20, 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 February 17 to the afternoon of February 20, 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 was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance 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.
February 13 - 17, 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 February 13 to the afternoon of February 17, 2014.
This includes data analysis from the surface fire that occurred on the morning of February 16. No levels of health concern were detected through AreaRae or handheld device monitoring; however, smoke generated from any fire may cause respiratory irritation, especially in sensitive individuals or persons with preexisting respiratory conditions.
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.
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.
February 10 - 13, 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 February 10 to the afternoon of February 13, 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
Average sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern, except for a few 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 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.
February 6 - 10, 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 February 6 to the afternoon of February 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, 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 not detected by the AreaRAE monitors during this time period.
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 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.
February 3 - 6, 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 February 3 to the afternoon of February 6, 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.
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.
January 30 - February 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 January 30 to the afternoon of February 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 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 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.
Follow-Up Review of Air Sampling Data
February 28
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 February 28, 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 0.19 parts per billion (ppb) to 3.1 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.
February 24
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 February 24, 2014. Samples were collected at one location upwind of the landfill and three 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, 6 VOCs were detected in ambient air in concentrations that generally exceeded concentrations detected upwind of the landfill. VOC concentrations ranged from 0.17 parts per billion (ppb) to 3 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.
February 21
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 February 21, 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, 16 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 5.1 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.
February 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 February 11, 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
Downwind of the landfill, 8 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 10 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure, except for one benzene concentration of 10 ppb. This one 4-hour sample slightly exceeded the most conservative acute screening level of 9 ppb (protective for exposures lasting up to two weeks). However, concentrations above a screening level do not necessarily identify a public health risk is present but that further investigation is warranted. While this concentration of benzene was above the most conservative acute screening level, it did not exceed the acute screening level for benzene of 400 ppb that is more reflective of the time period being assessed (protective for exposures lasting up to six hours). Additionally, the sample was collected near the landfill property line and dispersion is expected to reduce exposure downwind of the sample location. It should also be noted that this sample was collected near an automotive shop which may have contributed to the detection of benzene and the other downwind air sample collected did not show a concentration of benzene above an acute screening level. Benzene was also not detected in nearby locations during routine surveillance with a meter that is highly sensitive and specific to benzene.
February 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 February 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, 8 VOCs were detected in ambient air, which ranged in concentration from 0.16 parts per billion (ppb) to 2.5 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.