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
-
Repeat drunk driver sentenced to 4 years in prison, 6 year license suspension
A repeat drunk driver is headed to prison again. A Henry County judge convicted Timothy Hughes Thursday of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated Endangering a Person, a Level 5 Felony.
Report: Colts give Anthony Richardson permission to seek trade
The Indianapolis Colts have given the 23-year-old quarterback permission to seek a trade, according to a league source cited by ESPN.
New study sheds light on connection between medical debt and housing instability
A new study shows people carrying medical debt are significantly more likely to have trouble paying their rent or mortgage.
Indiana child protection bill inspired by Hailey Buzbee heads to Governor's desk
A bill inspired by the death of 17-year-old Hailey Buzbee is headed to the governor's desk after the Indiana House voted unanimously, 96-0, on Wednesday.
