While conducting remedial investigations at the former Powdered Metals facility in Aberdeen NC, an abandoned and heretofore unknown subsurface vessel was punctured and therefore compromised. Based on prior site history, the RPM suspects that this is a potential source of volatile organic chemicals, namely TCE.
A NRC report was made (NRC #899036) reporting the potential release. EPA Region 4 Duty Officer mobilized NC Outposted OSC.
NC Outposted OSC observed the punctured concrete tank, there was approximately 1,000 gallons of unknown material in the tank that had a chlorinated solvent odor. Samples were collected for field screening. Field screening using a Color-Tech Tube indicated that total chlorinated solvents were present at concentrations above 35 ppm. Geo-Probe locations around the tank along with field screening also indicated that the tank was leaking.
NC Outposted OSC mobilized ERRS and START to pump out the tank and to properly dispose of the material to prevent an on-going release.
Upon further investigation of the tank it was discovered that there were two concrete vaults with baffeling separating four chambers. These concrete vaults were recognized as the septic tank to the facility (human waste present in first and second vault closest to the Powdered Metals facility). Chlorinated Solvents were observed in all the vaults, the highest concentration in the first vault mixed with human waste "solids" at the bottom of the vault.
All vaults were pumped out (approximately 3,000 gallons) using a vac-truck and transported off-site for disposal.
The concrete vaults were covered back up with soil and the site was restored to pre-existing condition to the extent practical.
Remedial Program is conducting an on-going investigation.
Remedial Program will follow-up with long-term clean-up actions.
The leach Field was not addressed as part of the Emergency Response.
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