PUBLIC HEALTH ASSESSMENT
GEIGER (C & M OIL) SITE
RANTOWLES, CHARLESTON COUNTY, SOUTH CAROLINA
ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND OTHER HAZARDS
Data in this section are from the August, 1986 Final Remedial Investigation Report and Feasibility Study and other Post-ROD studies at the Geiger site. This represents the latest information for this site. The available data to date has not been through the standard review process.
The tables in this section list the contaminants of concern. However, their listing does not imply that they are a public health threat. We evaluate these contaminants in the subsequent sections of the Public Health Assessment and determine whether exposure to them has public health significance. This Public Health Assessment selects and discusses these contaminants based upon the following factors:
In the data tables that follow under the On-site Contamination subsection and the Off-site Contamination subsection, the listed contaminant does not mean that it will cause adverse health effects from exposures. Instead, the list indicates which contaminants will be evaluated further in the Public Health Assessment. When selected as a contaminant of concern in one medium, that contaminant will be reported in all media.
The data tables include the following acronyms:
| = Cancer Risk Evaluation Guide | |
| = Environmental Media Evaluation Guide | |
| = Reference Dose Evaluation Guide | |
| = EPA Maximum Contaminant Level Goal | |
| = EPA Maximum Contaminant Level | |
| = EPA Proposed MCLG | |
| = EPA Proposed MCL | |
| = EPA Reference Dose | |
| = EPA Lifetime Health Advisory |
Comparison values for public health assessments are contaminant concentrations in specific media that are used to select contaminants for further evaluation. These values include EMEGs, CREGs, and other relevant guidelines. CREGs are estimated contaminant concentrations based on a one excess cancer in a million persons exposed over a lifetime. CREGs are calculated from EPA's cancer slope factors. EPA's MCLG is a drinking water health goal. EPA believes that the MCLG represents a level that no known or anticipated adverse effect on the health of persons should occur which allows an adequate margin of safety. PMCLGs are MCLGs that are being proposed. MCLs represent contaminant concentration that EPA deems protective of public health (considering the availability and economics of water treatment technology) over a lifetime (70 years) at an exposure rate of 2 liters water per day. While MCLs are regulatory concentrations, PMCLGs and MCLGs are not. EPA's RfD is an estimate of the daily exposure to a contaminant that is unlikely to cause adverse health effects.
Toxic Chemical Release Inventory (TRI)
TRI is developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from the chemical release information provided by certain industries. The chemical release information is based on contaminants released to the air, surface water, groundwater, or soil. We conducted a search of TRI for the years 1988, 1989, and 1990. The search included a 1-mile radius from the site. As the site has not been active in years, TRI does not provide a listing for this site. TRI did not locate any other facilities within one mile of this site.
Groundwater - Monitoring Wells
Investigations conducted by the contractors for the Geiger site have determined that soil in the oil-stained area may serve as a source that introduces contaminants into groundwater.
During the RI, eighteen permanent monitoring wells were installed and sampled at the Geiger site (Figure 6). Six of these wells were installed on-site. Wells were installed to provide site-specific geological and hydraulic information, to evaluate contaminant migration via ground water in the water table aquifer, and to determine levels of contamination. The wells were installed as clusters of three at six locations. The three wells at each cluster were installed at three different depths (shallow, medium, and deep). The highest concentrations of groundwater contamination were detected in the oil-stained area of the site. Contaminant distribution displayed a depth-dependent pattern. More contaminants and higher concentrations were detected in the shallow wells. The number and concentrations of the contaminants decreased with depth. Decreasing number and concentrations of contaminants were also observed as the distance from the oil-stained area increased.
After the RI, additional groundwater monitoring wells were installed at the Geiger site. In June 1992, groundwater samples were collected by EPA at all monitoring well locations except MW1 wells which have been abandoned. Contaminants of concern detected in on-site monitoring wells during this investigation include: cadmium, lead, vanadium, and aluminum. Table 2 presents contaminants of concern detected for on-site monitoring wells.
Table 2: Contaminants of Concern -- Concentration in Groundwater On-site*
| Contaminant | Concentration Range - ppb |
Location of Maximum Value |
Comparison Value | |
| ppb | Source | |||
| Cadmium | ND - 27 | MW5 | 2 | EMEG-Child |
| Lead | ND - 80 | MW5 | 15 | EPA Action Level |
| Vanadium | ND - 21 | MW5 | 20 | LTHA |
| Aluminum | 58 - 14,000 | MW5 | No Value | |
Soil
During the RI, soil at the Geiger site was found to be contaminated with heavy metals and organic compounds, as well as low levels of PCBs. The contaminated soils were estimated to extend to a depth of five feet in the area of the former oil lagoons and to a depth of one foot in other areas of the site. By ATSDR definition, surface soil refers to soil from 0 - 3 inches. The samples collected are from 0 - 3 feet in depth and are not indicative of ATSDR's definition of surface soil.
In May 1988, Ebasco Services Incorporated collected additional soil samples on the Geiger site (Figure 7). Sampling conducted determined that the soil on the site is contaminated with chromium, lead, PCBs, and benz(a)anthracene. This information is presented in Table 3.
Surface soil (0" - 3") sampling is needed to better ascertain the extent of soil contamination and
to better evaluate the human health effects associated with exposures to contaminant
concentrations found in surface soil on-site and off-site. Table 3 presents the contaminants of
concern found in on-site soil.
Table 3: Contaminants of Concern -- Concentration in Soil On-site*
| Contaminant | Concentration Range - ppm |
Location of Maximum Value |
Comparison Value | |
| ppm | Source | |||
| Chromium | 3.5 - 1,700 | 11 | 300 | RMEG-Child |
| Lead | ND - 150 | 8 | No Value | |
| Benz(a)anthracene | ND - 2.6 | 8 | No Value | |
| PCB - 1254 | ND - 1.6 | 8 | 0.3 | CREG-Child |
Surface Water/Sediment
Surface water/sediment samples were collected from seven on-site locations (Figure 7). The two on-site ponds and the oily pit at the east end of the oil stained area were sampled.
Current surface water and sediment samples are needed on-site to determine the extent of contamination and the potential for human exposures and adverse health effects. Additional sampling is needed in surface water bodies on-site. One of the on-site ponds is reportedly being used for fishing and current data are needed for this area in particular.
Table 4 presents the contaminants of concern identified for on-site surface water. Table 5 presents contaminants of concern identified for on-site sediments.
Table 4: Contaminants of Concern -- Concentration in Surface Water On-site*
| Contaminant | Concentration Range - ppb |
Location of Maximum Value |
Comparison Value | |
| ppb | Source | |||
| Lead | 3.5 - 240 | SW74 | 15 | EPA Action Level |
Table 5: Contaminants of Concern -- Concentration in Sediment On-site*
| Contaminant | Concentration Range - ppm |
Location of Maximum Value |
Comparison Value | |
| ppm | Source | |||
| Copper | ND - 17 | SD29 | No Value | |
| Lead | ND - 280J | SD29 | No Value | |
| Antimony | ND - 21 | SD26 | 20 | RMEG-Child |
| Vanadium | 2.6 - 7.3 | SD31 | 20 | LTHA |
Air
Air monitoring was conducted on the site during soil sampling in the oil stained area and during all drilling operations on-site. The results of the air monitoring indicated readings below background levels. On the basis of the air monitoring conducted during the RI, it is not likely that air contamination is a problem at this site (RI). However, if the area becomes further developed, additional air monitoring should be conducted and evaluated.
Groundwater - Monitoring Wells
Eighteen permanent monitoring wells were installed and sampled at the Geiger site (Figure 6). Twelve of these wells were installed off-site. The wells were installed to provide site-specific geological and hydraulic information, to evaluate contaminant migration via ground water in the water table aquifer, and to determine levels of contamination. The wells were installed as clusters of three at six locations (three of these clusters were located off-site). The three wells at each cluster were installed at three different depths (shallow, medium, and deep). In June 1992, EPA collected additional groundwater samples at all monitoring well locations except MW1 wells which were abandoned. Contaminants of concern detected in on-site monitoring wells during this investigation include: chromium, cadmium, lead, and vanadium. Table 6 presents contaminants of concern detected for off-site monitoring wells.
Table 6: Contaminants of Concern -- Concentration in Groundwater Off-Site*
| Contaminant | Concentration Range - ppb |
Location of Maximum Value |
Comparison Value | |
| ppb | Source | |||
| Chromium | 2.8 - 320 | TW2 | 50 | RMEG-Child |
| Cadmium | ND - 6.8 | 2S | 2 | EMEG-Child |
| Lead | ND - 100 | 6S | 15 | EPA Action Level |
| Vanadium | ND - 120 | TW2 | 20 | LTHA |
Groundwater - Private Wells
Four private wells in the vicinity of Geiger were sampled during the RI. Sampling was conducted to determine whether contaminants had migrated into these wells. Three of these wells were located north and east of the oil stained area. The fourth was located southwest of this area (Figure 9).
Sampling data was analyzed for the priority pollutant organics, metals, and cyanide. No organic contamination or cyanide were found in any of the wells. Only metals were detected. All metal concentrations were below drinking water standards. The contaminants detected do not exceed ATSDR comparison values and have not been included in the discussion of this public health assessment. In addition, municipal water is available and utilized in this area.
Current sampling data are needed to better ascertain the extent of contaminant migration and the concentrations of the contaminants in these private wells.
Soil
The 1986 RI sampling data shows off-site soil contamination. Contaminants identified as being of concern include chromium, beryllium, lead, benz(a)anthracene, benzo(b/k)fluoranthene, benzo(a)pyrene, PCB-1254 and PCB-1260. Soil samples were collected and analyzed to determine whether migration of contaminants was occurring and to locate other suspected areas of contamination. Sample locations are presented in Figure 10.
No surface soil samples were collected during the RI. By ATSDR definition, surface soil refers to soil from 0 - 3 inches. The samples collected are from 0 - 3 feet in depth and are not indicative of ATSDR's definition of surface soil.
Surface soil (0" - 3") sampling is needed to better ascertain the extent of soil contamination and to better evaluate the human health effects associated with exposures to contaminant concentrations found in off-site surface soil. Table 7 presents the contaminants of concern found in off-site soil.
Table 7: Contaminants of Concern -- Concentration in Soil Off-site*
| Contaminant | Concentration Range - ppm |
Location of Maximum Value |
Comparison Value | |
| ppm | Source | |||
| Chromium | 1.9J - 490J | SL14 | 300 | RMEG (Child) |
| Beryllium | 0.25 - 0.53 | SL67 | 0.2 | CREG |
| Lead | 2.9 - 590J | SL14 | No Value | |
| Benz(a)anthracene | 0.037J - 0.32 | SL24 | No Value | |
| Benzo(b/k) Fluoranthene |
ND - 0.18J | SL51 | No Value | |
| Benzo(a)pyrene | 0.11J - 0.24J | SL24 | 0.1 | CREG |
| PCB - 1254 | ND - 4 | SL46 | 0.3 | CREG |
| PCB - 1260 | ND - 0.57 JN | SL53 | 0.3 | CREG |
Surface Water/Sediment
Surface water and sediment samples were collected from the drainage stream and surrounding swamp off-site. Samples were collected from five locations (Figure 8).
Current surface water and sediment samples are needed from off-site locations to determine the extent of contaminant migration and the potential for human exposures and adverse health effects. Additional data are also needed to determine the source of contamination.
Table 8 presents the contaminants of concern identified for off-site surface water. Table 9 presents contaminants of concern identified for off-site sediments.
Table 8: Contaminants of Concern -- Concentration in Surface Water Off-site*
| Contaminant | Concentration Range - ppb |
Location of Maximum Value |
Comparison Value | |
| ppb | Source | |||
| Antimony | ND - 29 | SW33 | 4 | RMEG-Child |
Table 9: Contaminants of Concern -- Concentration in Sediment Off-site*
| Contaminant | Concentration Range - ppm |
Location of Maximum Value |
Comparison Value | |
| ppm | Source | |||
| Beryllium | ND - 0.53 | SD73 | 0.2 | CREG |
| Copper | ND - 18 | SD74 | No Value | |
| Lead | 12 - 300 | SD70 | No Value | |
Air
Air monitoring was conducted on the site during soil sampling in the oil stained area and during all drilling operations off-site. The results of the air monitoring indicated readings below background levels. On the basis of air monitoring during the RI, it is not likely that air contamination is a problem at this site (RI). However, should the area be further developed, the air should be monitored again to confirm these conclusions.
C. Quality Assurance and Quality Control
The object of the quality assurance at this site was to maintain an established level of precision, completeness, accuracy, and conformance with EPA standards. The RI was conducted under the Quality Assurance Plan for Performance (QAPP) approved in April 1985.
Quality Control and Quality Assurance conclusions drawn for this public health assessment are determined by the validity of the analysis and conclusions made and the availability and reliability of the referenced information. The data available to date has not been through the standard review process. SCDHEC assumes that adequate quality assurance and quality control measures were followed in accordance with the QAPP, the chain-of-custody, laboratory procedures, and data reporting.
The site presents no physical hazards. It is privately owned and access to the site with vehicles is limited through a gate. The site was previously completely fenced and parts of the fence are no longer standing. This enables animals and trespassers to come on site. However, this is a small remotely located site with limited population and the possibility of trespassers entering the site is minimal. The site is also surrounded by woods on three sides.
To determine whether nearby residents are exposed to contaminants migrating from the site, ATSDR and SCDHEC evaluate the environmental and human components that lead to human exposure. This pathways analysis consists of five elements: A source of contamination, transport through an environmental medium, a point of exposure, a route of human exposure, and an exposed population.
ATSDR and SCDHEC categorize an exposure as completed, potential, or eliminated. Completed pathways have all five elements. Potential pathways indicate that exposure to a contaminant may have occurred in the past, may be occurring now, or may occur in the future. A potential pathway exists when one of the above listed five elements is missing, but could exist. An eliminated pathway occurs when at least one of the five elements is missing and will never be present.
Because we could not define a receptor population, we do not believe that exposure is occurring. Therefore, no completed exposure pathways exist at this time at the Geiger site.
B. Potential Exposures Pathways
TABLE 10
POTENTIAL EXPOSURE PATHWAYS
| Environmental Medium |
Source | Point of Exposure |
Route of Exposure |
Receptor Population |
Time |
| Soil | Geiger | On-site | Ingestion Dermal Contact |
On-site workers, residents |
Past Present Future |
| Groundwater/ Monitoring Wells Private Wells |
Shallow Groundwater | On-site or near possible wells established |
Ingestion Dermal Contact |
On-site workers, residents |
Future |
| Surface Water/ Sediment |
Geiger | Off-site streams or on-site ponds |
Ingestion Dermal Contact |
On-site workers, residents |
Future |
| Food Chain | Geiger | On-site and off-site |
Ingestion | On-site workers, residents |
Future |
| Air | Geiger | On-site and off-site |
Inhalation | On-site workers, residents |
Future |
Groundwater Pathway
The groundwater samples collected during the RI and Post-RI studies have indicated contaminants of concern. Monitoring wells were sampled on-site and off-site to provide site-specific geological and hydraulic information, to evaluate contaminant migration via ground water in the water table aquifer, and to determine levels of contamination. Private wells were sampled to determine whether contaminants had migrated from the site into these wells.
Site topography indicates that the site is relatively flat with a gentle slope. The degree of the slope is such that extensive migration of contaminants off-site is not very likely. Hydrogeologic data indicates that the Geiger site lies in the Atlantic Coastal Plain physiographic providence. The uppermost aquifer at the site is a surficial, unconfined aquifer, approximately 40 to 50 feet thick. This aquifer was used as a source of drinking water for approximately 10 residents near the site. Most water supply wells in the area utilize the shallow aquifer.
Private wells from adjacent residences located upgradient of the site have been tested and no contamination has been found. Since these wells draw from an aquifer that is much deeper than the shallow contaminated groundwater on-site it is unlikely that contaminants from the site have reached these wells. Additionally, municipal water is available to local residents and there are no known exposures to contaminants. Therefore, there are no known exposures to groundwater at this time.
There are no known private wells located within a 1-mile radius downgradient of the site, and the hydrogeologic conditions are such that contaminants will not readily move off the site or penetrate the deeper aquifers.
However, if the area becomes further developed, there is a potential for exposures to contaminants via ingestion of or dermal contact with groundwater if the new residents decide to utilize private wells and if contaminant migration has extended to the area.
Soil Pathway
In the past, exposures to contaminants at the Geiger site could have occurred. This past exposure could have happened to anyone who wandered onto, worked on, or to children who played on the site. The routes of exposure could have occurred through dermal contact, ingestion of soil, or inhalation of soil particles. However, lack of past data does not enable us to evaluate this past exposure pathway in this public health assessment.
Soil sampling conducted during the RI and Post-RI studies indicated contaminants of concern. Samples were collected from on-site and off-site locations to determine the extent of on-site contamination and contaminant migration from the site. The possibility of migration of contaminants from the site is considered insignificant due to the site topography.
The population most likely to be exposed to contaminated soil are the on-site workers. Exposure could occur if workers inadvertedly ingest the soil. In addition, if the area is developed in the future, trespassers could be exposed to contaminants as the site is not completely restricted and area residents could wander onto the property.
No surface soil data exist for this site. Surface soil is defined to be from 0 - 3" in depth by ATSDR. Samples collected during the RI ranged from 0 - 3 feet. Surface soil sampling is needed to better ascertain the extent of contamination a person could be exposed to and to evaluate human health effects associated with exposures to contaminants at the levels detected.
Surface Water/Sediment Pathways
The surface water and sediment sampling performed during the RI indicated contaminants of concern. Samples were collected and analyzed to determine if contaminants from the oil stained area had migrated to the on-site ponds, the drainage stream, and surrounding swamp. Metal contaminants detected were generally the same as those found in the soils.
There are currently no known exposure points at which populations could be exposed to contaminants on the Geiger site. However, there is a potential for exposures via ingestion of or dermal contact with surface water or sediment if the site or the area surrounding the site are further developed. To fully characterize the extent of contamination and likelihood of human exposures that could lead to adverse health effects in the future, additional sampling data are needed.
We evaluated the data received, the site hydrogeology, site topography, and the surface drainage patterns at the site and found that the off-site surface water is unlikely to be affected by the site, either by surface runoff, surface water discharge, or groundwater recharge.
Air Pathway
Air monitoring equipment was used during the initial site visit and revealed no organic vapors above background levels. Prior to site entry during the RI, air monitoring was conducted and detected no contaminants of concern. During the RI, air monitoring was conducted on-site during soil sampling activities in the oil stained area and during all drilling operations on and off-site. The results of the air monitoring indicated readings below background ambient air levels. On the basis of air monitoring conducted during the RI, the RI workers did not use special respiratory protection. The RI concluded that the contaminants in the soil are not considered a viable source of air contamination at this time and this pathway will not be discussed in this public health assessment.
There is a future potential exposure pathway via inhalation if environmental concentrations in soil are determined to be sufficient to release organic vapors to the air.
Food Chain Pathway
There are currently no gardens or fruit trees in the area and this is not a pathway of concern. In the event that the area is further developed there could be a potential for residents to have vegetable gardens on contaminated soil. Exposure could then occur through uptake of contaminants by the plants and ingestion of the vegetables.
There is no available information concerning fishing in the on-site ponds. We cannot determine whether fish from this pond are used for consumption. Fish sampling data is needed to enable us to evaluate if the fish are contaminated and if the concentrations of contaminants found would have any human adverse health effects.
During the 1992 site visit, SCDHEC staff noted spent shotgun shells on-site. While hunting could be occurring on or near the site, substantial accumulation of contaminants to wildlife is not likely. Wild game do not feed exclusively on the site, if at all. Therefore, site-related contaminants are unlikely to be transported via this pathway.
Introduction
In this section we will discuss the health effects in persons exposed to specific contaminants. To evaluate health effects, ATSDR has developed Minimal Risk Levels (MRL) for contaminants commonly found at hazardous waste sites. The MRL is an estimate of daily human exposure to a contaminant below which non-cancer, adverse health effects are unlikely to occur. MRLs are developed for each route of exposure and for the length of exposure.
When an MRL is not available, ATSDR refers to EPA's Reference Dose (RfD). The RfD is an estimate of daily human exposure to a contaminant for a lifetime below which (non-cancer) health effects are unlikely to occur.
The calculated doses are estimations of the amount of chemicals a person can be exposed to. The computations are based on the assumptions that an adult weighs 70 kilograms (154 pounds) and a child weighs 10 kilograms (22 pounds). An adult ingests 2 liters of water per day, and a child drinks half that amount. Adults typically ingest 50 to 100 milligrams of soil per day (mg/day) by inhalation of small soil particles carried in the air, and by placing soiled hands and other objects in the mouth. We assume that small children ingest a greater amount of soil, typically 200 mg/day, because they generally tend to place objects in their mouths.
These assumptions and the respective exposure scenarios are used to determine the estimated doses for each chemical. The estimated doses will be compared to health guidelines and the available scientific literature to determine if health effects are likely to occur.
Aluminum
Aluminum is a silver-white, flexible metal and a natural element in the earth. It is always found combined with other elements such as ores in the earth. Aluminum metal is often used in cooking utensils, appliances, and building materials (Sittig 1985).
Potential exposure pathways were identified for aluminum; however, no completed exposure pathways for aluminum have been identified at the Geiger site. Potential pathways may become completed in the future if groundwater containing aluminum is ingested or come into contact with the skin.
Exposure to aluminum is usually not harmful. People have been eating aluminum in their food for many years without any adverse health effects occurring. Health effects have been documented in animals at levels much higher than those found at the Geiger site; therefore, no adverse health effects are expected from exposure to aluminum.
Antimony
Antimony is a metal that occurs naturally in the earth's crust. It is used in electrical devices such as semi-conductors and in alloys as in batteries, anti-friction metal, and cable sheathing. Antimony oxides, sulfides, and salts are used in flame-proofing compounds, paints, ceramic enamels, glass, and pottery. It is also used as a medicine to treat people for certain kinds of parasitic infections (ATSDR 1990a).
There is no known human exposure to this contaminant at this time; however, potential exposure pathways for antimony have been identified. An EPA chronic reference dose of 0.0004 mg/kg/day has been established for antimony. Chronic effects are health effects that may occur from exposure to a contaminant for many years (typically 10 years or more).
Ingestion of off-site surface water or on-site sediment by children and adults would not result in exposure to antimony above the chronic reference dose. The level of exposure would be several times less than the levels that have been documented to cause adverse health effects in animals or in humans. At higher exposure levels, animals have experienced changes in blood chemistry and increased blood cholesterol (ATSDR 1990a). However, there is no indication that the levels of antimony in surface water or sediment at the Geiger site will result in these health effects. Levels associated with the Geiger site are also below levels that caused vomiting in humans who were exposed to antimony for a short period of time (14 days or less).
While human studies from skin contact with antimony were not available, rabbits that had small amounts of antimony placed on their skin for less than one day had minimal skin irritations (ATSDR 1990a). However, there is no indication that skin contact with surface water or sediments containing antimony at the Geiger site will result in irritation to the skin.
Beryllium
Beryllium is a hard, grayish metal that occurs as a chemical component of certain rocks, soil, and volcanic dust. Beryllium is also present in a variety of compounds. There are two types of beryllium compounds, those that dissolve in water and those that do not. Beryllium, as a chemical component, is naturally found in some food. The concentration of beryllium in both raw carrots and field corn grown in the United States is less than 25 micrograms per kilogram (g/kg) (ATSDR 1991b).
No exposures to beryllium are known to have occurred or to be occurring at the Geiger site; however, potential pathways for beryllium have been identified. People may become exposed to beryllium if contaminated soil or sediment is ingested or comes into contact with skin.
The chronic RfD for oral consumption of beryllium is 0.005 mg/kg/day. However, harmful health effects associated with beryllium most often occur from inhalational exposure. Animal studies show that a prolonged inhalational exposure to beryllium causes cancer. The EPA classifies beryllium as a probable human carcinogen (B2). A probable human carcinogen is used to categorize chemicals for which there is sufficient evidence that the chemicals cause cancer in animals; however, there is inadequate evidence from epidemiologic studies to conclude that the chemicals cause cancer in humans (ATSDR 1991b). Inhalational exposure to beryllium has not been identified as part of an exposure pathway for the Geiger site; therefore, no adverse health effects from inhalational exposure to beryllium are anticipated to occur.
Swallowing beryllium has not been reported to cause effects in humans because very little beryllium can move from the stomach and intestines into the bloodstream. In animals, beryllium has not been shown to cause severe health effects following ingestion. Young animals that ingested high levels (121 mg/kg/day) have weakened bones (ATSDR 1991b). However, the levels of beryllium associated with the Geiger site are significantly below the levels that caused adverse health effects in animals and are not anticipated to result in adverse health effects in humans.
Beryllium contact with the skin that has been scraped or cut can cause rashes or ulcers. People with an allergy to beryllium and have skin contact with it may developed granulomas on the skin (appearing either as a rash or as nodules). However, most of these effects are associated with exposure to beryllium in occupational settings (ATSDR 1991b). The levels of beryllium at the Geiger site are far below the levels that resulted in health effects in animal and human studies.
Cadmium
Cadmium occurs naturally in the earth's crust and is most often encountered in combination with other elements such as oxygen, chlorine, or sulfur. It has a number of industrial applications, as in metal plating, pigments, batteries, and plastics (ATSDR 1989c).
A potential pathway for cadmium exposure has been identified; however, no known exposures to cadmium are known to have occurred or to be occurring. However, potential pathways may become completed if contaminated groundwater is ingested or comes into contact with skin.
ATSDR has established a chronic MRL for cadmium at 0.0002 mg/kg/day. A child ingesting contaminated groundwater would ingest levels of cadmium that slightly exceeds the MRL.
The kidney is the organ most sensitive to chronic doses of cadmium. Ingestion of cadmium at levels associated with the Geiger site for many years may affect the kidney; however, this is hard to access since as children grow, the dose they would receive is likely to fall below the MRL. High blood pressure has been observed in animals chronically exposed to cadmium. The significance of this finding to humans is unknown (ATSDR 1989c).
The levels associated with the Geiger site are not anticipated to adversely affect health should dermal contact occur.
Chromium
Chromium is a naturally occurring element which is found in three different states: chromium 0, chromium III (trivalent chromium), and chromium VI (hexavalent chromium). Chromium is used to make steel and other alloys, bricks for metallurgical furnaces, for chrome plating, in the manufacture of pigments, for leather tanning, wood treatment, and water treatment for industrial applications (ATSDR 1989d).
Potential exposure pathways were identified for chromium at the Geiger site. These potential pathways may become completed pathways if people ingest or have dermal contact with contaminated groundwater or soil.
Sampling has not determined if chromium is present in the trivalent (chromium III) or hexavalent state (chromium VI) at the Geiger site.
Chromium VI has an EPA chronic reference dose of 0.005 mg/kg/day and Chromium III has an EPA chronic reference dose of 1 mg/kg/day; however, the reference dose for chromium III was not exceeded for any media at the Geiger site. Chronic health effects have not been documented in animals or humans at the levels detected at the Geiger site. Ingestion of chromium at levels higher than those at the Geiger site have resulted in the enhancement of dermatitis in humans. Children who ingest contaminated groundwater or soil may be exposed to chromium at levels higher than the chronic reference dose (ATSDR 1989d). However, as children grow the dose they would receive would fall below the reference dose; therefore, no adverse health effects from exposure to chromium at the Geiger site.
Copper
Copper occurs naturally in rock, soil, water, sediment, and air. The U.S. penny, electrical wiring, and some water pipes are made with copper (ATSDR 1990e).
Potential exposure pathways were identified for copper from sediments on-site and off-site. Exposure to copper may occur in the future through the ingestion of or dermal contact with contaminated sediments; however, no current exposures to copper are known to have occurred or to be occurring.
Copper is necessary for good health; it is an essential element for all living organisms, including man. Ingestion of too much copper can cause adverse health effects including vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea (LOAEL 0.0056 mg/kg/day) (ATSDR 1990e). However, the levels associated with the Geiger site are below the levels necessary to cause these health effects.
Studies have shown that some individuals may show signs of allergic contact dermatitis from skin contact with materials containing copper (ATSDR 1990e). However, neither the dose nor the duration of exposure necessary to produce this effect was available.
Lead
Lead is a naturally occurring element which may be found in most environmental media. It has a wide range of uses including storage batteries (automobile batteries), solders, pipes, various chemicals, and gasoline additives (ATSDR 1990g).
Potential pathways have been identified for lead; however, no exposures to lead are known to have occurred or to be occurring. Potential pathways may become completed should people ingest or have skin contact with contaminated soil, groundwater, surface water, or sediments.
Although lead may cause both acute and chronic effects, major concern has been focused on two chronic effects of lead toxicity: irreversible central and peripheral nervous system damage in children, manifesting as learning difficulty and hypertension in adult males, although studies disagree as to whether this effect is more pronounced in white or black males (ATSDR 1990g).
ATSDR has not set an MRL for lead. EPA has not set a reference dose (RfD) for lead. Although exposure to lead salts has been associated with an increased rate of cancer in laboratory animals, EPA has not set an estimate of the carcinogenic potency of lead. The excess cancer risk from exposure to lead at this site is unknown.
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
PCBs have been widely used as coolants and lubricants in transformers, capacitors, and other electrical equipment. They are actually a family of man-made chemicals that contain 209 individual compounds of varying toxicities. Aroclor is a common trade name for various PCB mixtures. Since 1974, all uses of PCB's have been confined to closed systems. PCB's have not been manufactured in the United States since 1977. PCB's still persist in the environment and human exposure still occurs. This is usually as a result of spillage from older transformers and capacitors that are still in use (ATSDR 1989i).
In animal studies, some PCB mixtures have produced adverse health effects that include liver damage, skin irritations, reproductive and developmental effects, and cancer. Human studies show that skin irritations, such as acne-like lesions and rashes, can occur in PCB-exposed workers. Occupational studies involve workers who have been exposed to amounts of PCBs far in excess of the normal population (ATSDR 1989i).
While no exposures to PBCs are known to have occurred or to be occurring, a potential exposure pathway was identified for PCBs. PCBs were found in soil, but not in any other media. This pathway may become completed in the future should persons ingest contaminated soil or get contaminated soil on their skin.
ATSDR has derived a chronic oral MRL of 0.000005 mg/kg/day for chronic-duration oral PCB exposure. The MRL is based on a LOAEL for immunological effects in monkeys. If children ingest the amount of PCB found in soil, this consumption may exceed the MRL.
In the study mentioned above, rhesus monkeys treated with low dietary doses (0.005 mg/kg/day) of PCBs for 11 months, led to the suppression of the immune system. This suppression of the immune system caused the monkeys to be more susceptible to bacterial and parasitic infections. However, the 0.005 dose received by the monkeys is much higher than the dose at the Geiger site. In other animal studies, monkeys who received doses similar to the rhesus monkeys experienced some reduction in birth weights (ATSDR 1989i).
Several PCB mixtures have been found to be carcinogenic in feeding studies in animals but it is not clear from these studies which of the components of the mixture are actually carcinogenic. The liver is the primary target of PCB carcinogenicity. Because of its ability to cause cancer in animals, the EPA has classified PCBs as probable human carcinogens (B2). Probable human carcinogens are chemicals for which there is sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity but inadequate or no data from human epidemiological studies (ATSDR 1989i). The EPA cancer potency estimate for Aroclor 1260 is assumed to be representative of all PCB mixtures. Using this cancer potency estimate, people who may ingest PCBs from soil at the Geiger site would develop "no apparent increased risk" of developing cancer over a lifetime.
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Compounds (PAH)
Benz(a)anthracene, Benzo(b/k)fluoranthene, and benzo(a)pyrene are polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) compounds. Because they are formed when gasoline, garbage, or any animal or plant material burns, they are usually found in smoke and soot. These chemicals combine with dust particles in the air and are carried into water and soil and onto crops. They are found in the coal tar pitch that industry uses to join electrical parts together. They are also found in creosote, a chemical used to preserve wood (ATSDR 1990j).
Potential exposure pathways were identified for PAHs. Exposure to PAHs could occur in the future through ingestion, inhalation, or dermal contact with contaminated soil. The off-site data collected shows only estimated values for these compounds which could mean the actual concentration is more or less than actually reported. This sampling shows that human exposure to benzo(b/k)fluoranthene could occur on-site near the entrance of the site by on-site workers but not the general population. Evidence also shows that contaminants off-site are not in areas where people live, therefore, there is no human exposure to these contaminants off-site at this time. However, if the area adjacent the site is further developed, there would be a need to re-sample and make recommendations on those findings.
In evaluating the potential human carcinogenicity of chemicals, EPA uses the approach given in "Guidelines for Carcinogenic Risk Assessment" (51 FR 33992, September 24, 1986). The EPA has classified PAHs as probable human carcinogens (B2). Probable human carcinogens categorize chemicals for which there is sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in animals, but inadequate evidence or no data from human epidemiologic studies.
Laboratory animals that ingest PAHs have developed tumors. These animals also developed tumors after PAHs were applied to their skin or after they had inhaled them over a long period of time. Reports in humans show that individuals exposed by breathing or skin contact for a long period of time to mixtures of other compounds and PAHs can also develop cancer (ATSDR 1990j).
Mice fed high levels of benzo(a)pyrene during pregnancy had difficulty reproducing and so did their offspring. Birth defects were also more likely to occur. While similar effects may be seen in humans, no evidence is available to support this assumption (ATSDR 1990j).
An estimate of the carcinogenic potency of PAHs is under review; this public health assessment will be updated when this information becomes available.
Vanadium
Vanadium is a white to gray metal and is a natural element in the earth. Vanadium is also found naturally in fuel oils and coal. These compounds are used in the making of steel, rubber, plastics, ceramics, and certain other chemicals. Most people are exposed daily to low levels of vanadium in food, drinking water, and air. The vanadium in these sources is at least partially due to the naturally occurring vanadium in rocks and soil. It is found in rocks and soil at approximately 150 ppm (ATSDR 1992k).
Potential pathways for exposure to vanadium were identified for the Geiger site; however, no completed pathways for vanadium have been identified. Potential pathways may become completed in the future should people ingest or have dermal contact with groundwater or sediment contaminated by vanadium.
Vanadium does not have an established MRL or reference dose. You may eat small amounts of vanadium in food. Most of what you ingest does not enter the bloodstream, but leaves the body in the feces. However, small amounts may enter the bloodstream and most of it leaves quickly in the urine. If you get vanadium on the skin, it is unlikely that it will enter the body by passing through the skin (ATSDR 1992k). Animals given doses of vanadium at levels much higher than those detected at the Geiger site have experienced health effects; however, no adverse health effects are anticipated from dermal contact with or ingestion of vanadium at the Geiger site.
B. Health Outcome Data Evaluation
As no health outcome data exists for the Geiger site, no evaluation can occur at this time.
C. Community Health Concerns Evaluation
EPA investigated allegations of buried drums on-site and its investigation revealed no buried drums on or adjacent to the site. Although drums may have been buried in the past, they are thought to have been removed during excavation since that time.
The community was also concerned about whether their drinking water was free of contamination. The results of these investigations indicate that contamination from the Geiger site is not migrating off-site into nearby residential wells upgradient or downgradient of the site. Municipal water is also now available to local residents as the future migration of the contaminants from the site is not known.
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