Investigations of Current Chromium Exposures Environmental and - PowerPoint PPT Presentation

Investigations of Current Chromium Exposures Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute Piscataway, NJ

EOHSI Principal Investigators Dr. Paul Lioy Dr. Michael Gochfeld Co-Investigators Dr. Stuart Shalat Dr. Zhi-hua (Tina) Fan Field Team Dr. Kathy Black Marta Hernandez Stephanie Einstein

Results from 1990s Studies Chromium levels in house dust were higher near uncontrolled waste sites Children’s exposure, measured by chromium in the urine, was linked to the levels in the house dust Only measured total chromium

Community Concerns Not all sites have been remediated Some sites have interim remediation methods only Remediation has taken too long

Chromium Exposure Study Started in 2006: Two Phase Design Phase 1: Is there a potential for exposure? Use levels in house dust Phase 2: Is there exposure? Use levels in house dust and children’s urine Can now measure Cr(VI) in dust

Results of Chromium Exposure Study Phase 1 Dust samples collected from 100 homes between Nov 2006 and May 2008; 2 to 3 samples were collected in each home. Cr(VI) found in all homes (average of 3.7 ppm) Six homes had a single high sample (over 20 ppm); no home had more than one high sample. Two homes continued to be high after re- sampling

Steps Post – Phase 1 Began Chromium Exposure Study Phase 2 Completed Background Study Analyze dust samples from another urban NJ area for Cr(VI) Compare levels to those found in Jersey City

Background Study Results Dust samples collected from 20 homes in the New Brunswick area between April and September 2008; 3 samples collected in each home. Cr(VI) found in all homes (average of 4.6 ppm) One home had a single high sample (over 20 ppm) No significant difference between the background area and Jersey City Sources of chromium not defined

Chromium Exposure Study Phase 2 Families with young children (6 years old or younger) Collect dust and urine samples $25 payment for participation This study is ongoing

Phase 2 Study: For Interested Residents Sign-up sheet Toll-free number: 866-855-2712 Recording Leave your name, phone number English or Spanish