PLAINFIELD — The Environmental Protection Agency has released a nearly 900 page report about the March 16 Walmart warehouse fire.
Air monitoring and sampling, as well as fire ash debris samples, were taken and analyzed in the days after the fire.
The EPA's field monitoring measurements found levels of particulate matter (PM) above screening levels in the area where residents were encouraged to shelter in place. Fire ash and debris were generated for miles.
PM, a mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air, can cause serious health problems.
Asbestos was not detected in the EPA samples, but the amount of benzene and arsenic found in samples exceeded the regional screening levels (RSL). Additionally, the report limit for 1,2-Dibromo 3-Chloropropane and thallium were above the EPA's removal management levels (RML) and regional screening levels (RSL).
"Concentrations EPA detected at Plainfield Warehouse Fire are not expected to result in adverse health effects for short exposure durations, such as a fire lasting several days," the EPA's website said.
The EPA says these volatile organic compounds (VOC) were located through sampling and lab analysis:
- Propene
- Dichlorodifluoromethane
- Chloromethane
- Ethanol
- Acetone
- Trichlorofluoromethane
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- n-Hexane
- Benzene
- Carbon Tetrachloride
- Toluene
- Tetrachloroethene
- m,p-Xylenes
To read the full EPA report, click here.
In March, Walmart announced the entire facility would close because of the extent of the damage.
PREVIOUS: Walmart Distribution Fire: Why you should stay indoors, keep away from debris from Plainfield fire | PHOTOS: Plainfield Walmart Distribution Center Fire | Walmart extends disaster benefits to employees at IND1 Fulfillment Center in Plainfield | ATF begins on-site investigation into Walmart facility fire in Plainfield
-
WNBA All-Star 2025: What to know about security, traffic and more
The briefing is providing important updates on street closures, safety protocols, and emergency response coordination.
Rockstar Pizza's 'pizza rock' hunt boosts community spirit in Brownsburg
The hand-painted "pizza rock" treasure hunt, began five years ago and has taken social media by storm. This fun community activity encourages residents to search for a hidden rock.
31 years later, Franklin police identify parents in 'Baby Hope' cold case
A cold case from 1994 that captured national attention was the focus of a significant update from Franklin Police on Monday.
New early learning center aims to bring hope to Speedway’s “childcare desert”
The Weston School is opening a new early learning center in Speedway to address the area’s childcare shortage, but recent state cuts to voucher programs may limit access for low-income families.
