Bridgeton Landfill Air Monitoring
Follow-Up Review of Air Monitoring Data - September 2015
- Bridgeton Comprehensive Air Sampling Review
- Bridgeton Radiological Air Sampling Report
- Bridgeton Area Emergency Department Data Review
- September 24 - 28
- September 21 - 24
- September 17 - 21
- September 14 - 17
- September 14
- September 7 - 10
- September 3 - 7
- August 31 - September 3
Follow-Up Review of Air Sampling Data
Follow-Up Review of Air Monitoring Data
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.
sDNR 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.
September 24 - 28
The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality monitoring data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill from the afternoon of September 24, 2015 to the afternoon of September 28, 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.
September 21 - 24
The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality monitoring data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill from the afternoon of September 21, 2015 to the afternoon of September 24, 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.
September 17 - 21
The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality monitoring data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill from the afternoon of September 17, 2015 to the afternoon of September 21, 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.
September 14
DHSS Review of Monthly Total Reduced Sulfur Air Sample Data from the Bridgeton Landfill Area
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 September 14, 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. While low concentrations of hydrogen sulfide were detected by the Jerome meter during routine monitoring on the same day, those concentrations were below levels of public health concern and were less than the detection limits of the laboratory analysis. In addition, 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. While low concentrations of sulfur dioxide were detected by AreaRae monitors during routine monitoring on the same day, average concentrations were below levels of public health concern and were less than the detection limits of the laboratory analysis.
September 7 - 10
The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality monitoring data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill from the afternoon of September 7, 2015 to the afternoon of September 10, 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.
Radiation Rates
Gamma radiation rates continue to be indistinguishable from natural background levels and were below levels of public health concern.
September 3 - 7
The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air quality monitoring data collected by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at Bridgeton Landfill from the afternoon of September 3, 2015 to the afternoon of September 7, 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 September 3 at one monitoring location in a commercial area northeast of the landfill. Exposure to elevated levels of sulfur dioxide shown on that one (downwind) 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.
August 31 - September 3
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 August 31, 2015 to the afternoon of September 3, 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
September 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 September 28, 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 generally exceeded concentrations detected upwind of the landfill. Downwind VOC concentrations ranged from 0.22 parts per billion (ppb) to 8 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.
September 10
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 September 10, 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, 8 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 19 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.
September 1
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 September 1, 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 0.18 parts per billion (ppb) to 9.3 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.