ChemServe was a manufacturer of dyes, soaps, drain cleaner, and conditioner. It was also believed to have stored off specification chemicals and wastes. Between 2005 and 2007, Michigan DEQ issued six Notices of Violation. In October and November 2007, EPA, Michigan DEQ, and City of Detroit Fire Department conducted two site visits which documented 1000s of drums and small containers unlabeled, mislabeled, and in various stages of leaking and rupturing.
On March 11, 2008, Michigan Department of Community Health issued an imminent and substantial hazard finding. On March 26, 2008, Michigan DEQ, with assistance from the Michigan Attorney General’s office, issued an imminent hazard order (closing the facility).
Between March 27 and April 1, 2008, EPA issued a Unilateral Administrative Order for cleanup, Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth issued citations for occupational safety and health violations, and the City of Detroit revoked ChemServe’s operations permit.
EPA continues to stage drums and containers for sampling/hazcating in areas 5, 8, 9, 10, and 27. In these areas alone 1,089 steel and poly drums were found. - Of special note, Area 27 had been unopened for more than 10 years.
In additional to site operations, EPA transmitted a Site Contingency Plan to Detroit officials. EPA is coordinating with the Detroit Fire Department to arrange a site walk-through.
May 1, EPA, Michigan DEQ, Detroit Fire Department, and Detroit Environmental Affairs held two public meeting at the Delray Community Center.
1) Stage waste containers
2) Conduct sampling and hazcating
3) Transport and dispose of wastes
Stabilize and stage drums in Area 6. EPA is mobilizing a hazcat trailer, chemist, and additional personnel to begin drum sampling.
Under Michigan DEQ's Cease and Desist Order, May 13 is ChemServe's deadline to prove assertion of product (i.e. anything remaining on site is a waste).
The OSC has contacted the Superfund Redevelopment Coordinator, EPA Brownfields Program, and a community based group to promote reuse of the facility once the cleanup is complete.
|
