Learn the Issues

This page shows all of the pages at www.epa.gov that are tagged with Learn the Issues.

  • What else can cause urine to test positive for thiodiglycolic acid?

    Thiodiglycolic acid is commonly found in general populations who have not been exposed to vinyl chloride. Some sources can include: Certain foods including raw onions, meat, poultry, and seafood. Some medications, including Zyrtec, and vitamins. Alcoholic beverages. Smoke including from wood fireplaces, cooking, and cigarettes. Some household products including paints…

    • Last published:

  • Should I get tested?

    We have heard residents’ concerns about potential exposure to vinyl chloride. EPA air monitoring data results show vinyl chloride below levels of health concerns. Available biological tests do not accurately assess exposure to vinyl chloride at levels present from this incident.

    • Last published:

  • What are SVOCs (and VOCs)?

    Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a group of chemicals that can readily transform into vapor (a gas) at lower temperatures. Semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) are more likely to be liquids or solids at lower temperatures. Some examples of products that include SVOCs are many pesticides, oil-based products, and fire retardants…

    • Last published:

  • Is our East Palestine City Park safe for activities?

    Yes. Results show that levels of dioxin and semi-volatile organic compounds are well below any levels that we would consider restricting activities, and all are either at or below typical background levels for soil in the United States. In addition, the village has cleaned all recreational equipment, including the pool…

    • Last published:

  • If I get a urine test, what does that indicate?

    If I get a urine test, what does that indicate? Urine tests show the level of thiodiglycolic acid–a break-down product of vinyl chloride. A complete lab report will show your thiodiglyocolic acid results compared to the normal range commonly found in people in the United States. But this test does…

    • Last published:

  • What are soil sampling results compared to?

    Levels of contaminants in soils are compared to EPA regional screening levels and known typical concentration levels in soil. Screening levels are a tool that responders use to identify potential risks to human health and the environment and if there is a need for further investigation. Screening levels are health…

    • Last published:

  • What are dioxins and how common are they?

    Dioxins are found throughout the world in the environment. Dioxins are a result of industrial processes and other activities such as burning fuels like wood, coal, or oil. Dioxins are called persistent organic pollutants, meaning they take a long time to break down once they are in the environment.

    • Last published:

  • What is the status of the soil sampling effort?

    As of early May 2023, 148 locations have been sampled. Each location includes a shallow sample (0-1 inch) and deeper sample (1-6 inches). The data were validated by experienced chemists to assess the quality of the preliminary data. During the data validation process, chemists check to see that the data…

    • Last published:

  • Can I grow a garden at home or plant crops?

    Yes. You can continue to use your land as you normally would. Residential soil sampling results are within typical ranges for the area. Follow normal measures like peeling root vegetables and washing leafy greens.

    • Last published:

  • Can I use the East Palestine City Park?

    Yes. Results show that levels of dioxin and semi-volatile organic compounds are well below any levels that we would consider restricting activities, and all are either at or below typical background levels for soil in the United States. In addition, the village has cleaned all recreational equipment, including the pool…

    • Last published:

  • Can I use other recreational areas in Ohio and Pennsylvania?

    Yes. Samples collected on impacted properties and local background locations have shown no results of concern on recreational, commercial, and agricultural properties. Some elevated levels have been detected on the public right-of-way (next to roads and highways) and may be assessed further.

    • Last published:

  • What were the results from the phase 1 of soil sampling?

    Phase 1 of soil sampling is complete, and we have received most of the preliminary data. The vast majority of results are within typical ranges for soil. Samples taken on private properties are all within typical soil levels, and only a few samples taken along public right-of-way (next to roads…

    • Last published:

  • Frequently Asked Questions: Soil Sampling Results

    Frequently Asked Questions About Soils Sampling Results 

  • Water Management Update

    As the cleanup at the derailment site continues to progress, water management in the area will undergo some changes.

  • Newsletter: East Palestine Train Derailment Response, 4-4-2024

    Newsletter April 4 2024 for East Palestine Train Derailment Response

  • MPRSA Ocean Site Designation

    The EPA designates and manages ocean sites to mitigate adverse impacts to surrounding marine environment. Criteria is considered when selecting a site for designation.

  • Mac and Black Jack Mines: Legal Documents and Settlements

    Legal Documents and Settlements related to Mac and Black Jack Mines in EPA’s Eastern Abandoned Uranium Mine Region.

  • Cleanup Activities for Lower Neponset River, Boston/Milton, MA

    EPA's Superfund Site Information for Lower Neponset River, Boston/Milton, MA.

  • Documents of Chevron Phillips Chemical Puerto Rico Core, LLC in Guayama, Puerto Rico

    Documents of Chevron Phillips Chemical Puerto Rico Core, LLC in Guayama, Puerto Rico

  • ресурсы на русском языке

    ресурсы на русском языкеs (resources in the Russian language).