2/19/2009 US EPA received a NRC notification reporting the release of a unkown amount of sulfuric acid due to a ruptured process line. The process line is a 2" line that runs more than 1,000 feet underground from the bulk storage area to the manufacturing building. The 2" line runs through a 4" line. The 2" line ruptured, filling up the 4" line causing the 4" line to overflow at both ends. It is unknown how long the 2" line has been leaking. Sulfuric Acid was surfacing through a paved (concrete and asphalt) parking area as well as overflowing out of the manufacturing building, impacting soil. The acid was contained and neutralized using sodium bicarbonate.
2/20/2009 US EPA conducted a site visit. The pipe was being excavated to locate the leak, soil was being placed in drums for containment and proper waste characterization and disposal.
An OSC met with state representatives from NCDENR conducted x-ray fluorescence (xrf) screening for possible lead contamination in soils surrounding the Douglas Battery facility. Various locations were screened on the perimeter of the Douglas Battery facility and adjoining residential property located across from the facility.
Upon the completion of the excavation, confirmation soil sampling will be conducted to determine cleanup objectives have been met.
EPA will coordinate with NC DENR Haz-Waste and Inactive Hazardous Sites for closure.
Facility has been in operation manufacturing lead/acid batteries since the 1930s.
There is a creek that runs behind the facility.
No monitoring wells exist on site.
There are former acid lagoons that have been filled in on site, there are former waste burial areas on site consisting of battery casings and slag from a smelter.
Two residents reside across the street.
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