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Note: This information is provided for reference purposes only. Although the information provided here was accurate and current when first created, it is now outdated. |
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Note: This information is provided for reference purposes only. Although the information provided here was accurate and current when first created, it is now outdated. |
Contact: Lynn Campbell Wingert (215) 814-3117
November 6, 1997-98-42
ROBESONIA, Pa. - Emergency crews from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in Philadelphia are on the scene and have begun an immediate cleanup of a mercury spill in this small Berks County town 10 miles west of Reading. The emergency cleanup will prevent the mercury from further spreading throughout the property.
The mercury spilled Tuesday night from old gas piping that was being removed from a furnace room at a single story motorcycle shop and residence at 952 W. Penn Avenue. The property owner and resident, Paul Steiner, was exposed to up to two ounces of mercury before it ran into a French drain that leads to storm drainage. The mercury was also tracked through the house as Steiner attempted to decontaminate himself.
EPA decontaminated the furnace room and minimized vaporization of the mercury. Mercury easily enters the body if its vapor is breathed, or through direct skin contact. According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), short-term exposure to low levels may have no health effects or the effects may be reversible. Exposure to high levels of mercury can lead to permanent damage to the brain, kidneys and developing fetus.
Samplings of mercury vapors at the shop and residence revealed levels up to 20 micrograms per cubic meter of air yesterday. ATSDR recommends household evacuation at levels from one to nine micrograms per cubic meter depending on the age and health of residents; the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health recommends work levels not exceed 50 micrograms per cubic meter. Steiner, his wife, and 10-year old child, voluntarily relocated to a hotel.
UGI Corporation, the local gas provider, is working with the EPA for further cleanup which may be required at the site.
EPA Region III Press Release Main Menu or: EPA Region III Home Page