Title of Research Project
Risk Assessment for TCE Contamination at the Plymouth Tube Site Gila River Indian Reservation, AZ
Major
M.S. Environmental Management
Research Abstract
Trichloroethylene or TCE is a volatile organic compound and Group A known human carcinogen that has been widely used in a variety of industrial and commercial applications and is one of the most common types of environmental contaminants found at industrial sites. A human health risk assessment was conducted using indoor air, soil vapor and groundwater monitoring well sample data to assess whether historic contamination posed a current risk to workers occupying a factory at the former Plymouth Tube Site in Chandler, Arizona. Sample data was analyzed using US EPA guidance and basic risk assessment calculations to quantify the cancerous and non-cancerous health risks posed to workers. Hypothetical scenarios under which drinking water resources were impacted were also evaluated to underscore the importance of sufficient remedial activities to protecting human health and the environment. Overall, the calculated risks posed to workers from historic TCE spill and contamination were minimal.
Faculty Mentor/Advisor
Amalia Kokkinaki
Course
Risk Assesment, Prof. Amalia Kokkinaki
Risk Assessment for TCE Contamination at the Plymouth Tube Site Gila River Indian Reservation, AZ
Trichloroethylene or TCE is a volatile organic compound and Group A known human carcinogen that has been widely used in a variety of industrial and commercial applications and is one of the most common types of environmental contaminants found at industrial sites. A human health risk assessment was conducted using indoor air, soil vapor and groundwater monitoring well sample data to assess whether historic contamination posed a current risk to workers occupying a factory at the former Plymouth Tube Site in Chandler, Arizona. Sample data was analyzed using US EPA guidance and basic risk assessment calculations to quantify the cancerous and non-cancerous health risks posed to workers. Hypothetical scenarios under which drinking water resources were impacted were also evaluated to underscore the importance of sufficient remedial activities to protecting human health and the environment. Overall, the calculated risks posed to workers from historic TCE spill and contamination were minimal.
