On Friday, August 12, the Salem Fire and Hazmat Team 13 notified EPA of a significant mercury spill at an apartment complex in Keizer, Oregon (Marion County). The spill was reported to have occurred in a detached garage unit and a public asphalt driveway used by several of the residents, many of which have young children. The amount of mercury spilled was initially estimated at 1 - 2 cups. Salem Fire/Hazmat and Keizer Fire responded to the incident and stabilized and secured the scene. They reported that witnesses claimed the spill had been on the asphalt pavement for about 2 weeks before being reported to Fire/Hazmat.
Salem Fire/Hazmat initially notified EPA for advice, but then shortly requested assistance. EPA immediately mobilized an OSC and EPA START contractors and equipment from Portland to the site to conduct an assessment. An additional team of START contractors, air monitoring equipment (including a mercury Lumex vapor analyzer) were also mobilized to the site the same evening. On August 16, EPA mobilized a Community Involvement Coordinator to the site to assist with concerns of local residents and media.
The property management company has hired a response and removal cleanup company to conduct site removal activities. EPA is conducting oversight of the removal, as well as utilizing Community Involvement Coordinators at assist with concerns of the community.
