State Agencies Just Released Detailed Data On SE Portland Air Pollution, Saying "There Is Cause for Concern."

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Bullseye Glass

As expected, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality this afternoon released detailed findings that show worrying levels of two carcinogens were found last year near a Southeast Portland glass manufacturer.

After days of offering only a scant press release, the DEQ set up a page with much more detail about the findings from last fall.

"There is a lot of information we don’t have yet; but we do have enough information to know that there is cause for concern," the agency writes on the web page.

If you've read the Mercury's Wednesday story breaking news of the findings, not much will be surprising about the new material. The DEQ has made available a detailed table [pdf] of air quality data from a monitor that was set up near SE 22nd and Powell. As we reported, the monitoring turned up monthly averages of 31.7 nanograms per cubic meter (ng/m3) of arsenic, and 29.4 ng/m3 of cadmium. Those are 159 times and 49 times the state air-safety benchmarks, respectively. They're also well higher than "risk-based concentration" levels the state sets.

We also asked the state about the high chromium levels revealed in the data. Dave Monro, DEQ air quality manager for the northwest region, says the agency is studying that further, noting only one form of chromium is potentially hazardous in air.

The state is confirming that Bullseye Glass, near SE Powell and 21st, is the main suspect for disbursing these metals, though it notes cadmium levels could be elevated partly because of train traffic nearby.

The DEQ is careful to call the findings preliminary, and says it's working to "develop maps outlining potential areas where metal concentrations are at levels of concern.... This is a new approach to using data and, while it has the potential to provide very helpful information, it may be refined and changed over time as information improves."

Here's what the DEQ says about potential health effects from elevated arsenic and cadmium levels:





The health effects of exposure to arsenic and cadmium depends on how much a person is exposed to and for how long. There is still a lot we do not know about exposures, and OHA is working with DEQ to ensure that the correct information is collected about exposures. Generally, exposure to cadmium can increase the risk of lung cancer. Inhaled cadmium can also cause lung inflammation, kidney damage, and bone problems. There is some evidence that cadmium can impair brain development in children as well. Exposure to arsenic can increase the risk of getting cancers of the skin, lung, and bladder. Arsenic can also affect brain development in children and cause intellectual problems. Support The Portland Mercury More than ever, we depend on your support to help fund our coverage. Support local, independent media with a small monthly recurring contribution. Thank you!

MORE COVERAGE:

State Finds Alarmingly High Arsenic, Cadmium Levels Near Two SE Portland Schools



Bullseye Glass Has Suspended Use of Arsenic and Cadmium Because of Air Quality Concerns



Portland Public Schools Is Ordering Air Tests Because of Arsenic, Cadmium Concerns: "We Need A Public Meeting"