Bridgeton Landfill Air Monitoring | Health & Senior Services

September 2013 Updates

Follow-Up Review of Air Monitoring Data

Bridgeton Area Emergency Department Data Review

September 30 - October 3
September 26 - 30
September 23 - 26
September 19 - 23
September 16 - 19
September 12 - 16
September 9 - 12
September 5 - 9
September 2 - 5
August 29 - September 2

September 26 - 30

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 September 26 to the afternoon of September 30, 2013. On June 7, DHSS began issuing follow-up reviews of the daily air quality screening data on a twice-weekly basis.

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. Generally, samples are collected near the property boundary and dispersion is expected to reduce exposure downwind of the sample locations.

Odors

DNR reported light odors during this time period at locations north, northeast, south, and west of the landfill.

Winds were predominantly from the south and southeast on September 26; south and southwest on September 27 and 28; south, east, and west on September 29; and south and southwest on September 30.
DNR detected light odors north, west, and south of the landfill on September 26; north of the landfill on September 27; north and northeast of the landfill on September 28; and north and south of the landfill on September 29. Odors were monitored 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

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

The maximum concentration of hydrogen sulfide detected was 7.9 parts per billion (ppb) during routine monitoring. Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were detected by the Jerome meter, which is highly sensitive and specific to hydrogen sulfide.
For four hours on September 26 at the monitoring location west of the landfill, three hours on September 26 at the monitoring location east of the landfill, and four hours on September 27 at the monitoring location east of the landfill, average concentrations of reduced sulfur compounds exceeded a health-based guideline for acute exposure to hydrogen sulfide. However, these compounds detected by AreaRAE monitors are not just hydrogen sulfide but primarily another reduced sulfur compound with lower toxicity.

Sulfur Dioxide

Average sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern, except for several hours at one monitoring location.

For two hours on September 26, seven hours on September 27, twelve hours on September 28, twenty-one hours on September 29, and twelve hours on September 30 at the monitoring location west of the landfill, average sulfur dioxide concentrations exceeded a health-based guideline for acute exposure. 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 in nearby residential areas.

Benzene and Total VOCs

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

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. However, benzene was not detected during routine monitoring around the perimeter of the landfill.
For one hour on September 29 at the monitoring location south of the landfill, five hours on September 30 at the monitoring location east of the landfill, and ten hours on September 30 at the monitoring location south of the landfill, average total VOC concentrations exceeded a level that indicates the need for compound-specific sampling.
Average total VOC concentrations periodically exceeded levels that indicate a need for compound-specific sampling at the monitoring locations west of the landfill and at other times at the monitoring locations east and south of the landfill. However, these elevated concentrations were not verified by other AreaRAE monitors stationed in the same locations.
DNR is performing VOC compound-specific sampling in locations upwind and downwind of the landfill on a routine basis. The laboratory results are submitted for DHSS review of public health concerns.

Carbon Monoxide

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

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates were well below levels of public health concern.

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

September 23 - 26

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 September 23 to the afternoon of September 26, 2013. On June 7, DHSS began issuing follow-up reviews of the daily air quality screening data on a twice-weekly basis.

Odors

DNR reported light and moderate odors during this time period at locations west, south, and southwest of the landfill.

Winds were predominantly from the south and southeast on September 23; south and southwest on September 24; and south and southeast on September 25 and 26.
DNR detected light odors west and southwest of the landfill on September 23; west and southwest of the landfill on September 24; and south, west, and southwest of the landfill on September 25. DNR detected moderate odors approximately 2 miles southwest of the landfill on September 25 that upon investigation were determined not to be associated with the Bridgeton landfill. Odors were monitored 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

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

The maximum concentration of hydrogen sulfide detected was 45.5 parts per billion (ppb) during routine monitoring. This concentration was detected by DNR on September 25, approximately two miles southwest of the landfill, and upon investigation was determined not to be associated with the Bridgeton landfill. Although winds were calm at the time, the high values originally detected could not be repeated. Hydrogen sulfide concentrations at that location were below 6 ppb with repeated measurements taken within the hour. The maximum hydrogen sulfide concentration detected at the perimeter of the landfill was 7.7 ppb. Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were detected by the Jerome meter, which is highly sensitive and specific to hydrogen sulfide.
For seven hours on September 25 at the monitoring location west of the landfill, three hours on September 26 at the monitoring location west of the landfill, and five hours on September 26 at the monitoring location east of the landfill, average concentrations of reduced sulfur compounds exceeded a health-based guideline for acute exposure to hydrogen sulfide. However, these compounds detected by AreaRAE monitors are not just hydrogen sulfide but primarily another reduced sulfur compound with lower toxicity.

Sulfur Dioxide

Average sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern, except for several hours at one monitoring location.

For seven hours on September 25 and eleven hours on September 26 at the monitoring location west of the landfill, the average sulfur dioxide concentration exceeded a health-based guideline for acute exposure. 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 in nearby residential areas.

Benzene and Total VOCs

Benzene was not detected in ambient air, except for limited time periods at locations approximately two miles from 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. However, benzene was not detected during routine monitoring around the perimeter of the landfill.
The maximum concentration of benzene detected was 500 ppb, exceeding a health-based guideline. This concentration was detected by DNR approximately two miles southwest of the landfill on September 25 during routine monitoring, and upon investigation was determined not to be associated with the Bridgeton landfill. Although winds were calm at the time, the high values originally detected could not be repeated. When measurements were repeated within the hour at that location, benzene concentrations were below detection.
A benzene concentration of 100 ppb was detected during routine monitoring on September 26, approximately two miles southwest of the landfill. Based on the reported wind direction at that time, this concentration may have been attributed to nearby construction activity and was unlikely to be attributable to the Bridgeton landfill. Benzene concentrations at that location were below detection once the construction activity had stopped.
For three hours on September 26 at the monitoring location west of the landfill, the average total VOC concentration exceeded a level that indicates the need for compound-specific sampling.
Average total VOC concentrations periodically exceeded levels that indicate a need for compound-specific sampling at the monitoring locations south and east of the landfill. However, these elevated concentrations were not verified by other AreaRAE monitors stationed in the same location.
DNR is performing VOC compound-specific sampling in locations upwind and downwind of the landfill on a routine basis. The laboratory results are submitted for DHSS review of public health concerns.

Carbon Monoxide

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

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates were well below levels of public health concern.

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

September 19 - 23

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 September 19 to the afternoon of September 23, 2013. On June 7, DHSS began issuing follow-up reviews of the daily air quality screening data on a twice-weekly basis.

Odors

DNR reported light odors during this time period at locations northeast, east, southeast and south of the landfill.

Winds were predominantly from the south and southwest on September 19; northwest on September 20 and 21; and south and southwest on September 22.
DNR detected light odors east, northeast, and southeast of the landfill on September 19 and south of the landfill on September 20, 21, and 22 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 5.9 parts per billion (ppb) during routine monitoring. 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 during this time period.

Sulfur Dioxide

Sulfur dioxide was not detected by AreaRAE monitors 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.

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.
For two hours on September 22 at the monitoring location south of the landfill, the average total VOC concentration exceeded a level that indicates the need for compound-specific sampling.
Average total VOC concentrations periodically exceeded levels that indicate a need for compound-specific sampling at the monitoring locations east and west of the landfill. However, these elevated concentrations were not verified by other AreaRAE monitors stationed in the same location.
DNR is performing VOC compound-specific sampling in locations upwind and downwind of the landfill on a routine basis. The laboratory results are submitted for DHSS review of public health concerns.

Carbon Monoxide

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

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates were well below levels of public health concern.

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

September 16 -19

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 September 16 to the afternoon of September 19, 2013. On June 7, DHSS began issuing follow-up reviews of the daily air quality screening data on a twice-weekly basis.

Odors

DNR reported light odors during this time period at locations north, northeast, east, south, and southwest of the landfill.

Winds were predominantly from the east and northeast on September 16; south, east, and southeast on September 17; and south and southwest on September 18 and 19.
DNR detected light odors south and southwest of the landfill on September 16; south of the landfill on September 17; and north, east, and northeast of the landfill on September 18. Odors were monitored 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 7.7 parts per billion (ppb) during routine monitoring. Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were detected by the Jerome meter, which is highly sensitive and specific to hydrogen sulfide.
For one hour on September 17 at the monitoring location east of the landfill, twelve hours on September 17 at the monitoring location south of the landfill, one hour on September 18 at the monitoring location west of the landfill, and fourteen hours on September 18 at the monitoring location south of the landfill, average concentrations of reduced sulfur compounds exceeded a health-based guideline for acute exposure to hydrogen sulfide. However, these compounds detected by AreaRAE monitors are not just hydrogen sulfide but primarily another reduced sulfur compound with lower toxicity.

Sulfur Dioxide

Average sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern.

Sulfur dioxide was briefly detected at the monitoring location west of the landfill. However, the average concentrations of sulfur dioxide were less than 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.
For three hours on September 16 and eight hours on September 17 at the monitoring location west of the landfill, the average total VOC concentration exceeded a level that indicates the need for compound-specific sampling.
Average total VOC concentrations periodically exceeded levels that indicate a need for compound-specific sampling at the monitoring location south of the landfill. However, these elevated concentrations were not verified by other AreaRAE monitors stationed in the same location.
DNR is performing VOC compound-specific sampling in locations upwind and downwind of the landfill on a routine basis. The laboratory results are submitted for DHSS review of public health concerns.

Carbon Monoxide

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

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates were well below levels of public health concern.

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

September 12 - 16

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 September 12 to the afternoon of September 16, 2013. On June 7, DHSS began issuing follow-up reviews of the daily air quality screening data on a twice-weekly basis.

Odors

DNR reported light odors during this time period at locations north, northeast, east, southeast, south, southwest, and west of the landfill.

Winds were predominantly from the west and northwest on September 12; south, southeast, and northeast on September 13 and 14; south and southwest on September 15; and east and northeast on September 16.
The DNR contractor detected light odors east, southeast, south, and southwest of the landfill on September 12; south, southwest, and southeast of the landfill on September 13; west, southwest, and south of the landfill on September 14; and north, northeast, east, and south of the landfill on September 15. Odors were monitored 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 4.8 parts per billion (ppb) during routine monitoring. Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were detected by the Jerome meter, which is highly sensitive and specific to hydrogen sulfide.
For one hour on September 12 at the monitoring location south of the landfill, and for one hour on September 13 and one hour on September 14 at the monitoring location east of the landfill, average concentrations of reduced sulfur compounds exceeded a health-based guideline for acute exposure to hydrogen sulfide. However, these compounds detected by AreaRAE monitors are not just hydrogen sulfide but primarily another reduced sulfur compound with lower toxicity.

Sulfur Dioxide

Average sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern.

Sulfur dioxide was briefly detected at the monitoring location west of the landfill. However, the average concentrations of sulfur dioxide were less than 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.
For eleven hours on September 13, thirteen hours on September 14, seven hours on September 15, and ten hours on September 16 at the monitoring location east of the landfill, the average total VOC concentration exceeded a level that indicates the need for compound-specific sampling.
Average total VOC concentrations periodically exceeded levels that indicate a need for compound-specific sampling at the monitoring location south of the landfill. However, these elevated concentrations were not verified by other AreaRAE monitors stationed in the same location.
DNR is performing VOC compound-specific sampling in locations upwind and downwind of the landfill on a routine basis. The laboratory results are submitted for DHSS review of public health concerns.

Carbon Monoxide

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

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates were well below levels of public health concern.

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

September 9 - 12, 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 September 9 to the afternoon of September 12, 2013. On June 7, DHSS began issuing follow-up reviews of the daily air quality screening data on a twice-weekly basis.

Odors

DNR reported light odors during this time period at locations south, east, northeast, and southeast of the landfill.

Winds were predominantly from the south and southwest.
The DNR contractor detected light odors east and northeast of the landfill on September 10 and south, east, northeast, and southeast of the landfill on September 11 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 8.7 parts per billion (ppb) during routine monitoring. Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were detected by the Jerome meter, which is highly sensitive and specific to hydrogen sulfide.
For seven hours on September 10 and five hours on September 11 at the monitoring location west of the landfill, two hours on September 10 at the monitoring location east of the landfill, and three hours on September 10 and seven hours on September 11 at the monitoring location south of the landfill, average concentrations of reduced sulfur compounds exceeded a health-based guideline for acute exposure to hydrogen sulfide. However, these compounds detected by AreaRAE monitors are not just hydrogen sulfide but primarily another reduced sulfur compound with lower toxicity.

Sulfur Dioxide

Average sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern, except for a limited time period at one monitoring location.

For one hour on September 11 at the monitoring location west of the landfill, the average sulfur dioxide concentration exceeded a health-based guideline for acute exposure. 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 in 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.
Average total VOC concentrations periodically exceeded levels that indicate a need for compound-specific sampling at the monitoring locations east and west of the landfill. However, these elevated concentrations were not verified by other AreaRAE monitors stationed in the same locations.
DNR is performing VOC compound-specific sampling in locations upwind and downwind of the landfill on a routine basis. The laboratory results are submitted for DHSS review of public health concerns.

Carbon Monoxide

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

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates were well below levels of public health concern.

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

September 5 - 9, 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 September 5 to the afternoon of September 9, 2013. On June 7, DHSS began issuing follow-up reviews of the daily air quality screening data on a twice-weekly basis.

Odors

DNR reported light odors during this time period at locations north, northeast, east, south, and southwest of the landfill.

Winds were predominantly from the south, southeast, and southwest.
The DNR contractor detected light odors south and southwest of the landfill on September 5, north, northeast, and south of the landfill on September 6, east and northeast of the landfill on September 7, south of the landfill on September 8, and east and northeast of the landfill on September 9 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 10.7 parts per billion (ppb) during routine monitoring. Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were detected by the Jerome meter, which is highly sensitive and specific to hydrogen sulfide.
For seven hours on September 5 and nine hours on September 6, average concentrations of reduced sulfur compounds exceeded a health-based guideline for acute exposure to hydrogen sulfide. However, these compounds detected by AreaRAE monitors are not just hydrogen sulfide but primarily another reduced sulfur compound with lower toxicity.

Sulfur Dioxide

Average sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern.

Sulfur dioxide was briefly detected at the monitoring locations south and west of the landfill. However, the average concentrations of sulfur dioxide were less than 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.
Average total VOC concentrations periodically exceeded levels that indicate a need for compound-specific sampling at the monitoring location west of the landfill. However, these elevated concentrations were not verified by another AreaRAE monitor stationed in the same location.
DNR is performing VOC compound-specific sampling in locations upwind and downwind of the landfill on a routine basis. The laboratory results are submitted for DHSS review of public health concerns.

Carbon Monoxide

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

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates were well below levels of public health concern.

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

September 2 - 5, 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 September 2 to the afternoon of September 5, 2013. On June 7, DHSS began issuing follow-up reviews of the daily air quality screening data on a twice-weekly basis.

Odors

DNR reported light odors during this time period at locations south and southwest of the landfill.

Winds were predominantly from the west, northwest, and southwest on September 2; south, east, southeast, and southwest on September 3; and south and southeast on September 4.
During this time period, the DNR contractor detected light odors south and 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 7.5 parts per billion (ppb) during routine monitoring. Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were detected by the Jerome meter, which is highly sensitive and specific to hydrogen sulfide.
For four hours on September 3, seven hours on September 4, and two hours on September 5 at the monitoring location west of the landfill, average concentrations of reduced sulfur compounds exceeded a health-based guideline for acute exposure to hydrogen sulfide. However, these compounds detected by AreaRAE monitors are not just hydrogen sulfide but primarily another reduced sulfur compound with lower toxicity.

Sulfur Dioxide

Average sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern, except for several hours at one monitoring location.

For five hours on September 2 and five hours on September 3 at the monitoring location south of the landfill, the average sulfur dioxide concentration exceeded a health-based guideline for acute exposure. 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 in 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.
For seven hours on September 3 at the monitoring location east of the landfill, the average total VOC concentration exceeded a level that indicates the need for compound-specific sampling.
Average total VOC concentrations periodically exceeded levels that indicate a need for compound-specific sampling at other times at the monitoring locations east, west, and south of the landfill. However, these elevated concentrations were not verified by other AreaRAE monitors stationed in the same locations.
DNR is performing VOC compound-specific sampling in locations upwind and downwind of the landfill on a routine basis. The laboratory results are submitted for DHSS review of public health concerns.

Carbon Monoxide

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

Radiation Rates

Gamma radiation rates were well below levels of public health concern.

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

August 29 - September 2, 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 August 29 to the afternoon of September 2, 2013. On June 7, DHSS began issuing follow-up reviews of the daily air quality screening data on a twice-weekly basis

Odors

DNR reported light odors during this time period at locations east, south, and southwest of the landfill.

Winds were predominantly from the south, southwest, and southeast.
During this time period, the DNR contractor detected only light odors south and southwest of the landfill on August 29, east of the landfill on August 30, east and southwest of the landfill on August 31, east and south of the landfill on September 1, and south and southwest of the landfill on September 2 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 7.8 parts per billion (ppb) during routine monitoring. Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were detected by the Jerome meter, which is highly sensitive and specific to hydrogen sulfide.
Average concentrations of reduced sulfur compounds did not exceed health-based guidelines for acute exposure to hydrogen sulfide. These compounds detected by AreaRAE monitors are not just hydrogen sulfide but primarily another reduced sulfur compound with lower toxicity.

Sulfur Dioxide

Average sulfur dioxide concentrations were below levels of public health concern, except for a limited time period at one monitoring location.

On September 2 at the monitoring location south of the landfill, average sulfur dioxide concentrations periodically exceeded a health-based guideline for acute exposure. For four hours on September 2, average sulfur dioxide concentrations were 0.02 parts per million (ppm). While exposure to these concentrations of sulfur dioxide may cause irritation or other short-term symptoms, considerable dispersion is expected to reduce potential exposure levels in 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.
Average 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 were well below levels of public health concern.

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

September 25

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air sample data collected for the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) near Bridgeton Landfill on September 25, 2013. Samples were collected at two locations upwind of the landfill and two locations downwind of the landfill for laboratory determination of concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). DHSS has reviewed this data for evaluation of potential public health concerns of short-term health effects.

VOCs

Concentrations of VOCs were well below levels of public health concern. Downwind of the landfill, 10 VOCs were detected in ambient air in concentrations that generally exceeded concentrations detected upwind of the landfill. VOC concentrations ranged from 0.25 parts per billion (ppb) to 11.0 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.

September 21

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air sample data collected for the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) near Bridgeton Landfill on September 21, 2013. Samples were collected at two locations upwind of the landfill and two locations downwind of the landfill for laboratory determination of concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). DHSS has reviewed this data for evaluation of potential public health concerns of short-term health effects.

VOCs

Concentrations of VOCs were well below levels of public health concern. Downwind of the landfill, 7 VOCs were detected in ambient air, which ranged in concentration from 0.18 parts per billion (ppb) to 9.3 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.

September 12

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 12, 2013. Samples were collected at two locations upwind of the landfill and two locations downwind of the landfill for laboratory determination of concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). DHSS has reviewed this data for evaluation of potential public health concerns of short-term health effects.

VOCs

Concentrations of VOCs were well below levels of public health concern. Downwind of the landfill, 11 VOCs were detected in ambient air in concentrations that generally exceeded concentrations detected upwind of the landfill. VOC concentrations ranged from 0.2 parts per billion (ppb) to 8.7 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for short-term exposure.

Follow-Up Review of Air Sampling Data

September 3

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reviewed air sample data collected for the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) near Bridgeton Landfill on September 3, 2013. Samples were collected at two locations upwind of the landfill and two locations downwind of the landfill for laboratory determination of concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). DHSS has reviewed this data for evaluation of potential public health concerns of short-term health effects.

VOCs

Concentrations of VOCs were well below levels of public health concern. Downwind of the landfill, 4 VOCs were detected in ambient air, which ranged in concentration from 0.21 parts per billion (ppb) to 4.4 ppb and did not exceed health-based screening levels for acute exposure.

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Contact

Office of Public Information
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
PO Box 570
Jefferson City, MO 65102-0570

Telephone: 573-751-6062
Email: info@health.mo.gov
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