Three Rivers Gold Plating company operated as an electro-plating facility until the building was condemned by the Allen County Building Department in early May, 2010. The facility electro-plated gold and platinum surfaces onto a wide variety of items such as jewelry, automotive parts, wheels, metal trim, music equipment, and metals such as brass, steel, aluminum, zinc die cast, pewter, and pot metal.
After conducting several inspections, the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) requested USEPA assistance for further assessment of the facility. Upon inspection of the facility, IDEM and City officials observed multiple open electrical boxes, and extension cords connected to various electrical equipment, a laboratory, various containerized chemicals/solutions in drums, baths, and containers. A partially full 2,000 gallon waste storage above ground storage tank (AST), partially filled poly totes, various 55-gallon drums, and one 85-gallon poly over pack drum labeled potassium cyanide were found on the property outside the facility.
USEPA, the Superfund Technical Assistance and Response Team (START), and IDEM conducted an inspection on May 27, 2010. USEPA determined that a site assessment was required and returned on June 1, 2010 to conduct the site assessment. During the site assessment the OSC determined that conditions at the site necessitated immediate stabilization activities to mitigate the threat of a release. Emergency Response and Rapid Services (ERRS) contractors were mobilized to the site on June 2, 2010 to secure and cover all open drums, vats, and containers, and to further secure the building.
For additional information, visit the Pollution/Situation Report (Pol/Sitreps) section.
