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HEALTH CONSULTATION

BOYERTOWN SCRAP
BOYERTOWN, BERKS COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the limited available data, PADOH and ATSDR conclude that the groundwater from the site does not represent an apparent health threat to the users of an on-site welding shop or residents in an on-site and near-site home. Further, private well water sampling and additional investigation regarding the absence of children in the on-site welding shop is needed to assure that public health remains protected. PADOH and ATSDR further conclude that there is insufficient evidence to indicate site contamination has migrated off site through groundwater. Additional well water sampling is needed to confirm previous sampling results.

PADOH will review additional sampling data of wells (HW-2, HW-3, and HW-4) when they become available to determine any public health significance.

RECOMMENDATIONS

PADOH recommends the following for the site. Please note that the interpretation, advice, and recommendations provided are based on the data and information referenced. Additional data could alter the advice being presented. In addition, the recommendations and conclusions of this HC are situation-specific. They should not be considered applicable to any other situations.

1. PADOH recommends resampling HW-2, HW-3, and HW-4 as following:

a. One tap sample without purging;
b. One tap sample after purging;
c. One sample as close to the well as possible and before the storage tank.

The recommended lead sampling plan will determine if household plumbing is contributing to elevated lead concentrations.

2. PADOH recommends installing monitoring wells at locations to the south of the 2-story Brick Shop along Route 562 (Figure 4) to determine if contaminated groundwater has reached the downgradient property boundary near the road.



3. PADOH educator will meet with the individual working in the welding shop and provide him a copy of the health consultation when it is finalized and the lead poisoning educational information. PADOH recommends this individual contact his physician for a medical evaluation and appropriate treatment if any illness or symptoms are experienced due to lead poisoning.

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