State to investigate health issues related to pollution from Precision Castparts plants

The Oregon Health Authority has agreed to do a public health assessment in the area around Precision Castparts Corporations manufacturing complex in Southeast Portland and Milwaukie.

The state agency says it will study soil and air samples collected near the facility on 4600 S.E. Harney Drive, just north of Johnson Creek Boulevard, and evaluate whether there are harmful exposures to residents that should be stopped or reduced.

The study will not determine whether existing health issues were caused by environmental exposures.

A series of stories in the Portland Tribune have identified numerous air and water pollution issues related to emissions from the Precision Castparts plant.

To help with its work, the Oregon Health Authority is recruiting members of a new community advisory committee, to get input from nearby residents. The committee will help educate participants about the process, develop relationships with neighbors, work on communications strategies, and ensure that community concerns are addressed.

Residents who live, work, study or play within a half-mile of the Precision Castparts plant are eligible.

Those interested in joining the committee should call 971-673-0970 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by August 24.

For more information: http://public.health.oregon.gov/HealthyEnvironments/TrackingAssessment/EnvironmentalHealthAssessment/Documents/metals/metals-plan-for-public-health-assessment-plan.pdf

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503-546-5139

@SteveLaw/Trib

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