Bridgeton Landfill Air Monitoring

Follow-Up Review of Air Monitoring Data - October 2015

Follow-Up Review of Air Sampling Data

Follow-Up Review of Air Monitoring Data

October 29 - November 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 October 29, 2015 to the afternoon of November 2, 2015.

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

Hydrogen Sulfide and Other Reduced Sulfur Compounds

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

Sulfur Dioxide

Sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern 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.

October 26 - 29

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 October 26, 2015 to the afternoon of October 29, 2015.

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

Hydrogen Sulfide and Other Reduced Sulfur Compounds

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

Sulfur Dioxide

Sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern during this time period, except for one hour on October 28 at one monitoring location in a commercial area northeast of the landfill. Exposure to the elevated levels of sulfur dioxide shown on that one monitor may cause respiratory irritation or other short-term symptoms, particularly in asthmatics or other sensitive individuals.

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.

October 22 - 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 October 22, 2015 to the afternoon of October 26, 2015.

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

Hydrogen Sulfide and Other Reduced Sulfur Compounds

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

Sulfur Dioxide

Sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern 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.

October 19 - 22

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 October 19, 2015 to the afternoon of October 22, 2015.

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

Hydrogen Sulfide and Other Reduced Sulfur Compounds

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

Sulfur Dioxide

Sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern during this time period, except for three hours on October 21 at one monitoring location in a commercial area southwest of the landfill. Exposure to the elevated levels of sulfur dioxide shown on that one monitor may cause respiratory irritation or other short-term symptoms, particularly in asthmatics or other sensitive individuals. Winds were from the south and southwest during that time, indicating sources other than the landfill may have contributed to those elevated levels.

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.

October 15 - 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 October 15, 2015 to the afternoon of October 19, 2015.

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

Hydrogen Sulfide and Other Reduced Sulfur Compounds

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

Sulfur Dioxide

Sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern 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.

October 12 -15

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 October 12, 2015 to the afternoon of October 15, 2015.

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

Hydrogen Sulfide and Other Reduced Sulfur Compounds

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

Sulfur Dioxide

Sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern 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.

October 8 -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 October 8, 2015 to the afternoon of October 12, 2015.

DNR provides continuous monitoring of 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 landfill 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

Sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern 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.

October 1 - 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 October 1, 2015 to the afternoon of October 5, 2015.

DNR provides continuous monitoring of 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 landfill 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

Sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern 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.

September 28 - October 1

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality monitoring data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill from the afternoon of September 28, 2015 to the afternoon of October 1, 2015.

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

Hydrogen Sulfide and Other Reduced Sulfur Compounds

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

Sulfur Dioxide

Sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern 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.

Follow-Up Review of Air Sampling Data

October 29

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 October 29, 2015. Samples were collected at one location 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. Downwind VOC concentrations ranged from 0.21 parts per billion (ppb) to 5.3 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.

October 19

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 October 19, 2015. Samples were collected at one location 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, 6 VOCs were detected in ambient air in concentrations that ranged from 0.2 parts per billion (ppb) to 2.6 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.

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October 13

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 October 13, 2015. 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. Downwind VOC concentrations ranged from 0.19 parts per billion (ppb) to 31 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.

October 8

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed laboratory air sample data for total reduced sulfur (TRS) compounds collected for the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) near Bridgeton Landfill on October 8, 2015. Samples were collected at one location upwind of the landfill and one location downwind of the landfill. DHSS has reviewed this data for evaluation of potential public health concerns of short-term health effects.

Hydrogen Sulfide and Other Reduced Sulfur Compounds

Hydrogen sulfide and other reduced sulfur compounds were not detected in the upwind or downwind laboratory air samples. Hydrogen sulfide was also not detected by the Jerome meter during routine monitoring on the same day. While total reduced sulfur compounds were periodically detected by AreaRAE monitors on the same day, concentrations of individual compounds that contributed to those total concentrations were apparently less than the detection limits of the laboratory analysis.

Sulfur Dioxide

Sulfur dioxide is also included in the analysis method for TRS, but was not detected in the upwind or downwind laboratory samples. Sulfur dioxide was also not detected by AreaRae monitors during routine monitoring on the same day.

October 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 October 6, 2015. 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 in concentrations that ranged from 0.18 parts per billion (ppb) to 28 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.