Texas A&M scientists analyzed EPA data on air pollutants at the Ohio derailment site and found some chemicals of concern, especially if they persist at same levels. Via the Washington Post:
Three weeks after the toxic train derailment in Ohio, an independent analysis of Environmental Protect Agency data has found nine air pollutants at levels that could raise long-term health concerns in and around East Palestine.
The analysis by Texas A&M University researchers seems to contradict statements by state and federal regulators that air near the crash site is safe, despite residents complaining about rashes, breathing problems and other health effects.
Examining EPA data, the researchers found elevated levels of chemicals known to trigger eye and lung irritation, headaches and other symptoms, as well as some known or suspected to cause cancer.
The researchers said it was “good news” that levels of benzene and related chemicals were not elevated in the air sampling. But they said EPA measured acrolein, a hazardous substance found in smoke, at concentrations that could have long-term health effects, along with other chemicals at lower levels that in combination could also raise health concerns if they remained at these levels.
