Bridgeton Landfill Air Monitoring

May 2013

DHSS review of air monitoring data from the Bridgeton Landfill area

May 31.2013

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality screening data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill from the afternoon of May 30 to the afternoon of May 31, 2013. On April 23, DNR began routine, twice daily, surveillance of hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and odor levels around the entire periphery of the landfill. In addition, DNR has provided continuous monitoring of reduced sulfur compounds (reported as hydrogen sulfide), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and total volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at three fixed locations. On May 30, until mid-afternoon, monitors located east of the landfill were temporarily moved north of the landfill to be in a downwind location for sampling. At approximately 3:30 pm, those monitors were returned to their usual location east 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

Odors were reported by DNR as being mild today in several locations around the landfill. Winds were slow and shifting, although predominantly from the south.

  • DNR detected low odors at locations north of the landfill using a Nasal Ranger olfactometer.
  • 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.

  • The maximum concentration of hydrogen sulfide detected was 5.8 parts per billion (ppb). Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were detected by the Jerome meter, which is highly sensitive and specific to hydrogen sulfide.
  • AreaRAE monitors briefly detected low concentrations of reduced sulfur compounds at the monitoring location east of the landfill. These compounds are not just hydrogen sulfide but primarily another reduced sulfur compound with lower toxicity. No reduced sulfur compounds were detected at the other monitoring locations.
Sulfur Dioxide

Average sulfur dioxide concentrations did not exceed levels of public health concern, except for a limited time period at two monitoring locations near the landfill.

  • For approximately 2 1/2 hours on May 30, the average sulfur dioxide concentration at the monitoring location east of the landfill was 0.02 parts per million (ppm), exceeding a health-based guideline for acute exposure.
  • For approximately one half hour on May 30, the average sulfur dioxide concentration at the monitoring location north of the landfill was 0.02 parts per million (ppm), exceeding a health-based guideline for acute exposure.
  • While exposure to these concentrations of sulfur dioxide may cause irritation and other short-term symptoms, considerable dispersion is expected to reduce potential exposure levels at nearby residential areas.
Benzene and Total VOCs

Benzene was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance locations around the landfill.

  • Previous sampling has shown that, while several VOCs are present in the landfill source gas, benzene may be a primary VOC of public health concern.
  • Total VOC concentrations were not at a level that indicates a need for compound-specific sampling.
Carbon Monoxide

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

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates continue to be at levels that are at or near natural background levels.

  • Gamma radiation levels are monitored continuously at three locations around the site using AreaRae instruments equipped with radiation detectors.

May 29-30, 2013 Comprehensive Air Sampling

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed the air sample data from the May 29-30 comprehensive sampling event at Bridgeton Landfill. DHSS evaluated air samples collected from two on-site locations and from two locations upwind and two locations downwind from the site. DHSS reviewed the data for evaluation of potential public health concerns of short-term health effects.

Samples were collected for aldehydes, amines, ammonia, carboxylic acids, hydrogen chloride, hydrogen cyanide, mercury (elemental), sulfur dioxide, dioxins/furans, polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and reduced sulfur compounds. Of these, only aldehydes, carboxylic acids, dioxins/furans, PAHs, and VOCs were detected in the samples.

Aldehydes

Aldehydes were detected on-site, upwind, and downwind of the landfill; however, all concentrations were below levels of public health concern.

  • Of the 12 aldehydes sampled for, 11 were detected in the downwind sampling locations; however, these concentrations were low and did not exceed available health-based screening levels for acute exposure.
Carboxylic Acids

Carboxylic acids were detected in one on-site sample; however, concentrations were below levels of public health concern and were not detected in ambient air downwind of the landfill.

Dioxins/Furans

Dioxins and furans were detected on-site, upwind, and downwind of the landfill; however, all concentrations were below levels of public health concern.

  • Due to the absence of health-based screening levels for acute exposures, data were compared to a chronic screening level for dioxins/furans using the standard approach for evaluating human health risks from dioxin-like compounds. This provides a very health protective evaluation.
  • Of the 17 dioxins and furans sampled for, 6 were detected in a downwind sampling location; however, these concentrations were low and did not exceed available health-based screening levels (for chronic exposure).
PAHs

PAHs were detected on-site, upwind, and downwind of the landfill; however, the concentrations were low and are not expected to pose a public health risk.

  • Of the 19 PAHs sampled for, 7 were detected in a downwind sampling location; however, these concentrations were low and did not exceed available health-based screening levels for acute exposure. Some of the specific compounds detected do not have health-based screening levels available; however, only very low concentrations were detected and these detections are not expected to pose a public health risk.
VOCs

VOCs were detected on-site, upwind, and downwind of the landfill; however, all concentrations of VOCs were below levels of public health concern.

  • Of the 68 VOCs sampled for, 24 were detected in the downwind sampling locations; however, these concentrations were low and did not exceed available health-based screening levels for acute exposure.

May 30.2013

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality screening data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill from the afternoon of May 29 to the afternoon of May 30, 2013. On April 23, DNR began routine, twice daily, surveillance of hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and odor levels around the entire periphery of the landfill. In addition, DNR has provided continuous monitoring of reduced sulfur compounds (reported as hydrogen sulfide), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and total volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at three fixed locations. The monitors usually located east of the landfill were moved north of the landfill to be in a downwind location for sampling on May 30. 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

Odors were reported by DNR as being moderate to strong today in locations north of the landfill. Winds were predominantly from the south.

  • DNR detected moderate odors at a location north and northeast of the landfill using a Nasal Ranger olfactometer.
  • 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.

  • The maximum concentration of hydrogen sulfide detected was 7.8 parts per billion (ppb). Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were detected by the Jerome meter, which is highly sensitive and specific to hydrogen sulfide.
  • AreaRAE monitors detected low concentrations of reduced sulfur compounds at the monitoring locations south and west of the landfill. These compounds are not just hydrogen sulfide but primarily another reduced sulfur compound with lower toxicity. No reduced sulfur compounds were detected at the other monitoring locations.
Sulfur Dioxide

Average sulfur dioxide concentrations did not exceed levels of public health concern, except for a limited time period at two monitoring locations near the landfill.

  • For two hours on May 29, the average sulfur dioxide concentration at the monitoring location east of the landfill was 0.02-0.03 parts per million (ppm), exceeding a health-based guideline for acute exposure.
  • For one hour on May 29, the average sulfur dioxide concentration at the monitoring location south of the landfill was 0.02 ppm, exceeding a health-based guideline for acute exposure.
  • While exposure to these concentrations of sulfur dioxide may cause irritation and other short-term symptoms, considerable dispersion is expected to reduce potential exposure levels at nearby residential areas.
Benzene and Total VOCs

Benzene was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance locations around the landfill.

  • Previous sampling has shown that, while several VOCs are present in the landfill source gas, benzene may be a primary VOC of public health concern.
  • Total VOC concentrations were not at a level that indicates a need for compound-specific sampling.
Carbon Monoxide

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

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates continue to be at levels that are at or near natural background levels.

  • Gamma radiation levels are monitored continuously at three locations around the site using AreaRae instruments equipped with radiation detectors.

May 29. 2013

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality screening data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill on May 28-29, 2013. On April 23, DNR began routine, twice daily, surveillance of hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and odor levels around the entire periphery of the landfill. In addition, DNR has provided continuous monitoring of reduced sulfur compounds (reported as hydrogen sulfide), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and total volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at three fixed locations. DHSS has reviewed both sets of data to identify potential public health concerns for short-term health effects.

Odors

Odors were reported by DNR as being moderate to occasionally strong at locations to the north and northeast. Winds were predominantly from the south and southwest.

  • DNR detected moderate odors at a location north of the landfill using a Nasal Ranger olfactometer.
  • 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.

  • The maximum concentration of hydrogen sulfide detected was 6.9 parts per billion (ppb). Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were detected by the Jerome meter, which is highly sensitive and specific to hydrogen sulfide.
  • AreaRAE monitors detected low concentrations of reduced sulfur compounds for one hour at the monitoring location southwest of the landfill. These compounds are not just hydrogen sulfide but primarily another reduced sulfur compound with lower toxicity.
Sulfur Dioxide

Average sulfur dioxide concentrations did not exceed levels of public health concern, except for a limited time period at two monitoring locations near the landfill.

  • For one hour on May 29, the average sulfur dioxide concentration at the monitoring location south of the landfill was 0.02 parts per million (ppm), exceeding a health-based guideline for acute exposure.
  • For five hours on May 28, the average sulfur dioxide concentration at the monitoring location east of the landfill ranged from .02 to .05 ppm, exceeding a health-based guideline for acute exposure.
  • Exposure to these concentrations of sulfur dioxide may cause irritation and other short-term symptoms.
Benzene and Total VOCs

Benzene was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance locations around the landfill.

  • Previous sampling has shown that, while several VOCs are present in the landfill source gas, benzene may be a primary VOC of public health concern.
  • Total VOC concentrations were not at a level that indicates a need for compound-specific sampling.
Carbon Monoxide

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

Radiation Rates

Gamma Radiation rates continue to be at levels that are at or near natural background levels.

  • Gamma radiation levels are monitored continuously at three locations around the site using AreaRAE instruments equipped with radiation detectors.

May 28.2013

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality screening data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill on May 27-28, 2013. On April 23, DNR began routine, twice daily, surveillance of hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and odor levels around the entire periphery of the landfill. In addition, DNR has provided continuous monitoring of reduced sulfur compounds (reported as hydrogen sulfide), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and total volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at three fixed locations. DHSS has reviewed both sets of data to identify potential public health concerns for short-term health effects.

Odors

Odors were reported by DNR as being moderate today in locations north of the landfill. Winds were predominantly from the south.

  • DNR detected moderate odors at a location northeast of the landfill using a Nasal Ranger olfactometer.
  • 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.

  • The maximum concentration of hydrogen sulfide detected was 4.8 parts per billion (ppb). Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were detected by the Jerome meter, which is highly sensitive and specific to hydrogen sulfide.
  • Reduced sulfur compounds were not detected by AreaRae monitors.
Sulfur Dioxide

Average sulfur dioxide concentrations did not exceed levels of public health concern, except for a limited time period at two monitoring locations near the landfill.

  • For one hour on May 27, the average sulfur dioxide concentration at the monitoring location west of the landfill was 0.02 parts per million (ppm), exceeding a health-based guideline for acute exposure.
  • For one hour on May 28, the average sulfur dioxide concentration at the monitoring location east of the landfill was 0.03 ppm, exceeding a health-based guideline for acute exposure. DNR field staff noted nearby businesses applying unknown pesticides or herbicides to the ground near the AreaRAE. It is unknown if this may have contributed to the elevated concentration at the monitoring location east of the landfill.
  • Exposure to these concentrations of sulfur dioxide may cause irritation and other short-term symptoms.
Benzene and Total VOCs

Benzene was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance locations around the landfill.

  • Previous sampling has shown that, while several VOCs are present in the landfill source gas, benzene may be a primary VOC of public health concern.
  • One AreaRAE monitor detected elevated concentrations of VOCs for several hours at the monitoring location south of the landfill.
  • These elevated VOC concentrations were not verified by other AreaRAE monitors stationed at the same location.
Carbon Monoxide

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

May 26 - 27. 2013

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality screening data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill on Sunday, May 26, and Monday, May 27, while construction work at the landfill was temporarily suspended due to adverse weather conditions. On April 23, DNR began routine, twice daily, surveillance of hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and odor levels around the entire periphery of the landfill. In addition, DNR has provided continuous monitoring of reduced sulfur compounds (reported as hydrogen sulfide), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and total volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at three fixed locations. DHSS has reviewed both sets of data to identify potential public health concerns for short-term health effects.

Odors

Odors were generally mild until Monday, May 27, when DNR reported odors as being strong east-northeast of the landfill and in pockets south of the landfill. Winds were predominantly from the south.

  • DNR detected strong odors at one location northeast of the landfill on May 27 using a Nasal Ranger olfactometer.
  • 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.

  • The maximum concentration of hydrogen sulfide detected was 8.8 parts per billion (ppb). Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were detected by the Jerome meter, which is highly sensitive and specific to hydrogen sulfide.
  • AreaRAE monitors detected low concentrations of reduced sulfur compounds for two hours on Sunday, May 26, at the monitoring location south of the landfill. These compounds are not just hydrogen sulfide but primarily another reduced sulfur compound with lower toxicity.
Sulfur Dioxide

Average sulfur dioxide concentrations did not exceed levels of public health concern, except for limited time periods at two monitoring locations near the landfill.

  • For one hour on May 26 and one hour on May 27, average sulfur dioxide concentrations at the monitoring location west of the landfill were 0.02-0.03 parts per million (ppm), exceeding a health-based guideline for acute exposure.
  • For one hour on May 26, the average sulfur dioxide concentration at the monitoring location south of the landfill was 0.06 ppm, exceeding a health-based guideline for acute exposure.
  • Exposure to these concentrations of sulfur dioxide may cause irritation and other short-term symptoms.
  • Because the monitoring location south of the landfill was upwind of the landfill at the time of sampling, it is believed that sources of sulfur dioxide other than the landfill may have contributed to the elevated concentration detected at that location on May 26.
Benzene and Total VOCs

Benzene was not detected in ambient air, except for a limited time period at one surveillance location near the landfill.

  • For ten minutes on the morning of May 27, benzene concentrations were 0.05-0.1 ppm at one location south of the landfill, exceeding a health-based guideline. Because this location was upwind of the landfill at the time of sampling, it is believed that sources of benzene other than the landfill may have contributed to these elevated concentrations.
  • Exposure to these concentrations of benzene may cause irritation and other short-term symptoms.
  • Previous sampling has shown that, while several VOCs are present in the landfill source gas, benzene may be a primary VOC of public health concern.
  • Total VOC concentrations were not at a level that indicates a need for compound-specific sampling.
Carbon Monoxide

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

May 25. 2013

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality screening data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill on May 24-25, 2013. On April 23, DNR began routine, twice daily, surveillance of hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and odor levels around the entire periphery of the landfill. In addition, DNR has provided continuous monitoring of reduced sulfur compounds (reported as hydrogen sulfide), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and total volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at three fixed locations. DHSS has reviewed both sets of data to identify potential public health concerns for short-term health effects.

Odors

Odors were reported by DNR as being generally mild today, particularly north of the landfill. Winds were predominantly from the south.

  • DNR periodically detected strong odors at locations north of the landfill using a Nasal Ranger olfactometer.
  • 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 well below levels of public health concern.

  • The maximum concentration of hydrogen sulfide detected was 7.2 parts per billion (ppb). Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were detected by the Jerome meter, which is highly sensitive and specific to hydrogen sulfide.
  • Reduced sulfur compounds were not detected by AreaRae monitors.
Sulfur Dioxide

Average sulfur dioxide concentrations did not exceed levels of public health concern, except for a limited time period at one monitoring location near the landfill.

  • For one hour on May 24, the average sulfur dioxide concentration at the monitoring location east of the landfill was 0.02 parts per million (ppm), exceeding a health-based guideline for acute exposure.
  • Exposure to this concentration of sulfur dioxide may cause irritation and other short-term symptoms.
  • Because this monitoring location was upwind of the landfill at the time, it is believed that sources of sulfur dioxide other than the landfill may have contributed to this elevated concentration.
Benzene and Total VOCs

Benzene was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance locations around the landfill.

  • Previous sampling has shown that, while several VOCs are present in the landfill source gas, benzene may be a primary VOC of public health concern.
  • Total VOC concentrations were not at a level that indicates a need for compound-specific sampling.
Carbon Monoxide

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

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates continue to be at levels that are at or near natural background levels.

  • Gamma radiation levels are monitored continuously at three locations around the site using AreaRae instruments equipped with radiation detectors.

May 24. 2013

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality screening data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill on May 23-24, 2013. On April 23, DNR began routine, twice daily, surveillance of hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and odor levels around the entire periphery of the landfill. In addition, DNR has provided continuous monitoring of reduced sulfur compounds (reported as hydrogen sulfide), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and total volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at three fixed locations. DHSS has reviewed both sets of data to identify potential public health concerns for short-term health effects.

Odors

Odors were reported by DNR as being strong today at least a half mile west-southwest of the landfill. Winds were predominantly from the east-northeast.

  • DNR detected strong odors at locations southwest of the landfill using a Nasal Ranger olfactometer.
  • 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 well below levels of public health concern.

  • The maximum concentration of hydrogen sulfide detected was 6.9 parts per billion (ppb). Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were detected by the Jerome meter, which is highly sensitive and specific to hydrogen sulfide.
  • Reduced sulfur compounds were not detected by AreaRae monitors.
Sulfur Dioxide

Average sulfur dioxide concentrations did not exceed levels of public health concern.

  • Sulfur dioxide was detected at the monitoring location west of the landfill. However, average concentrations of sulfur dioxide were below 0.01 parts per million (ppm) and did not exceed health-based guidelines for acute exposure.
Benzene and Total VOCs
Benzene was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance locations around the landfill.
  • Previous sampling has shown that, while several VOCs are present in the landfill source gas, benzene may be a primary VOC of public health concern.
  • Total VOC concentrations were not at a level that indicates a need for compound-specific sampling.
Carbon Monoxide

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

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates continue to be at levels that are at or near natural background levels.

Gamma radiation levels are monitored continuously at three locations around the site using AreaRae instruments equipped with radiation detectors.

May 23. 2013

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality screening data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill on May 22-23, 2013. On April 23, DNR began routine, twice daily, surveillance of hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and odor levels around the entire periphery of the landfill. In addition, DNR has provided continuous monitoring of reduced sulfur compounds (reported as hydrogen sulfide), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and total volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at three fixed locations. DHSS has reviewed both sets of data to identify potential public health concerns for short-term health effects.

Odors

Odors were reported by DNR as being strong today at least one mile east and southeast of the landfill. Winds were predominantly from the west and northwest.

  • DNR detected light to moderate odors at locations near the landfill using a Nasal Ranger olfactometer.
  • 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 well below levels of public health concern.

  • The maximum concentration of hydrogen sulfide detected was 2.3 parts per billion (ppb). Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were detected by the Jerome meter, which is highly sensitive and specific to hydrogen sulfide.
  • Reduced sulfur compounds were not detected by AreaRae monitors.
Sulfur Dioxide

Average sulfur dioxide concentrations did not exceed levels of public health concern.

  • Sulfur dioxide was detected at monitoring locations south and east of the landfill. However, average concentrations of sulfur dioxide were below 0.01 parts per million (ppm) and did not exceed health-based guidelines for acute exposure.
Benzene and Total VOCs

Benzene was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance locations around the landfill.

  • Previous sampling has shown that, while several VOCs are present in the landfill source gas, benzene may be a primary VOC of public health concern.
  • Total VOC concentrations were not at a level that indicates a need for compound-specific sampling.
Carbon Monoxide

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

May 22. 2013

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality screening data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill on May 21-22, 2013. On April 23, DNR began routine, twice daily, surveillance of hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and odor levels around the entire periphery of the landfill. In addition, DNR has provided continuous monitoring of reduced sulfur compounds (reported as hydrogen sulfide), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and total volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at three fixed locations. DHSS has reviewed both sets of data to identify potential public health concerns for short-term health effects,

Odors

Odors were reported by DNR as being moderate to strong today at locations east of the landfill.

  • DNR detected strong odor, light odor, or no odor at locations around the landfill using a Nasal Ranger olfactometer.
  • 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 well below levels of public health concern.

  • The maximum concentration of hydrogen sulfide detected was 6.4 parts per billion (ppb). Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were detected by the Jerome meter, which is highly sensitive and specific to hydrogen sulfide.
  • AreaRAE monitors detected low concentrations of reduced sulfur compounds for two hours at the monitoring location south of the landfill. These compounds are not just hydrogen sulfide but primarily another reduced sulfur compound with lower toxicity.
Sulfur Dioxide

Average sulfur dioxide concentrations did not exceed levels of public health concern.

  • For one hour, the average concentration of sulfur dioxide was 0.01 parts per million (ppm) at the monitoring location south of the landfill. This concentration did not exceed health-based guidelines for acute exposure.
Benzene and Total VOC

Benzene was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance locations around the landfill.

  • Previous sampling has shown that, while several VOCs are present in the landfill source gas, benzene may be a primary VOC of public health concern.
  • Total VOC concentrations were not at a level that indicates a need for compound-specific sampling.
Carbon Monoxide

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

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates continue to be at levels that are at or near natural background levels.

  • Gamma radiation levels are monitored continuously at three locations around the site using AreaRae instruments equipped with radiation detectors.

May 21, 2013

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality screening data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill on May 21, 2013. On April 23, DNR began routine, twice daily, surveillance of hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and odor levels around the entire periphery of the landfill. In addition, DNR has provided continuous monitoring of reduced sulfur compounds (reported as hydrogen sulfide), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and total volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at three fixed locations. DHSS has reviewed both sets of data to identify potential public health concerns for short-term health effects.

Odors

Odors were reported by DNR as being low today.

  • DNR detected no odor or light odor at locations around the landfill using a Nasal Ranger olfactometer.
  • 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 well below levels of public health concern.

  • The maximum concentration of hydrogen sulfide detected was 6.2 parts per billion (ppb). Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were detected by the Jerome meter, which is highly sensitive and specific to hydrogen sulfide.
  • AreaRAE monitors detected low concentrations of reduced sulfur compounds for three hours at the monitoring location south of the landfill. These compounds are not just hydrogen sulfide but primarily another reduced sulfur compound with lower toxicity.
Sulfur Dioxide

Average sulfur dioxide concentrations did not exceed levels of public health concern, except for a limited time period at one monitoring location near the landfill.

  • For one hour, the average concentration of sulfur dioxide was 0.05 parts per million (ppm) and exceeded a health-based guideline for acute exposure at the monitoring location south of the landfill.
  • While exposure to this concentration of sulfur dioxide may cause irritation or other short-term symptoms, considerable dispersion is expected to reduce potential exposure levels at nearby residential areas.
Benzene and Total VOCs

Benzene was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance locations around the landfill.

  • AreaRAE monitors detected elevated concentrations of VOCs for four hours at the monitoring location south of the landfill. However, while previous sampling has shown several VOCs present, benzene has been the primary VOC of public health concern.
Carbon Monoxide

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

Radiation Rate

Gamma radiation rates continue to be at levels that are at or near natural background levels.

  • Gamma radiation levels are monitored continuously at three locations around the site using AreaRae instruments equipped with radiation detectors.

May 20, 2013

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality screening data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill on May 20, 2013. On April 23, DNR began routine, twice daily, surveillance of hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and odor levels around the entire periphery of the landfill. In addition, DNR has provided continuous monitoring of reduced sulfur compounds (reported as hydrogen sulfide), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and total volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at three fixed locations. DHSS has reviewed both sets of data to identify potential public health concerns. It should be noted that during routine data verification in the field, some high monitor readings for hydrogen sulfide and sulfur dioxide were not confirmed; however, DHSS evaluated the data as valid to be protective of public health.

Reduced Sulfur Compounds

All readings with the Jerome meter, which specifically detects hydrogen sulfide only, were well below acute levels of public health concern, with a maximum concentration of 7.9 parts per billion (ppb). DNR AreaRAE monitors detected reduced sulfur compounds at two of the monitoring locations, east and west of the landfill. While hourly average concentrations exceeded acute health-based guidelines for hydrogen sulfide, the compounds detected by AreaRAE monitors are not just hydrogen sulfide but primarily another reduced sulfur compound with lower toxicity.

Sulfur Dioxide

Concentrations of sulfur dioxide exceeded health-based guidelines for acute exposure at two of the monitoring locations, west and south of the landfill. While exposure to sulfur dioxide at these concentrations may cause irritation or other short-term symptoms, considerable dispersion is expected to reduce potential exposure levels at nearby residential areas. Sulfur dioxide concentrations were not detected at levels predicted to cause more serious short-term or long-lasting effects.

Odors

Low odors were identified near the landfill today. 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.

Benzene, Total VOCs and Carbon Monoxide

Benzene was not detected in ambient air at any of the surveillance locations around the landfill. Hourly average concentrations of carbon monoxide and total VOCs did not exceed levels of health concern.

Gamma Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation levels are monitored continuously at three locations around the site using AreaRae instruments equipped with radiation detectors. Gamma radiation rates continue to be at levels that are at or near natural background levels.

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NEWS RELEASE: Department of Natural Resources and Department of Health and Senior Services to post Bridgeton Landfill air monitoring data and analyses daily beginning Monday (5.18.13)

For previous health analyses visit http://www.dnr.mo.gov/bridgeton/