June 1, 2008, a mercury spill of approximately 5 pounds occurred in Milan, Michigan.
After the residents attempted to clean the spill with rags and a vacuum cleaner, they called 911. The Milan Police and Fire Departments secured the scene and contacted the Washtenaw County HAZMAT Team (WCHT). WCHT decontaminated the residents and request U.S. EPA assistance. Mercury levels in the house ranged as high as 53,000 ng/m3 (residential occupancy level is 1,000 ng/m3).
Based on the mercury levels the Monroe County Health Department found the house to be a public health hazard and the Milan Building and Zoning Department condemned the residence. Emergency assistance including food and shelter was provided to the residents by the American Red Cross.
Between June 1 and June 4, U.S. EPA removed visible mercury, carpeting, floor tile, kitchen sink piping, and household items. Attempts were made to decontaminate household items above 10,000 ng/m3. Items which remained above 10,000 ng/m3 were photographed and placed in a roll-off box for disposal.
June 4, mercury levels inside the residence were determined to be below 1,000 ng/m3. After consultation with the Monroe County Health Department, the residents were allowed to return. U.S. EPA replaced carpeting, tile, and kitchen sink piping before demobilizing. The roll-off box containing mercury-contaminated items was shipped to EQ in Belleville, Michigan. Disposal is pending on the elemental mercury.
Cleanup Complete
Dispose of elemental mercury.
|
