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  • What is a site assessment and what is the difference between a site assessment and a site investigation?

    The first step of the site assessment process is known as a preliminary assessment (PA). This assessment gathers historical and other readily available information on site conditions and surroundings to evaluate whether the site poses a potential threat to human health and the environment and/or whether further investigation is needed…

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  • Why hasn’t the Norwood Landfill Site been identified as a Superfund Site? Two nearby landfills, Folcroft and Clearview, which were established and in use at the same time as Norwood Landfill and Dump have both been designated as Superfund sites.

    EPA is still conducting its investigation of the Norwood Landfill Site to determine if it should be placed on the National Priorities List (NPL), or Superfund List. Thus far, the data collected has not demonstrated that the site warrants placement on the NPL. Both the Folcroft and Clearview Landfills went…

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  • What is Vermiculite?

    Vermiculite is the mineralogical name given to hydrated laminar magnesium-aluminum-iron silicate that resembles mica in appearance. All vermiculite ores contain a range of other minerals that were formed along with the vermiculite in the rock. Vermiculite ores from some sources have been found to contain asbestos minerals but asbestos is…

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  • How do the changes in the 2006 Amendments apply to mobile refuelers?

    Mobile refuelers are now exempt from the following sized secondary containment provisions that still apply to all other bulk storage containers and mobile/portable bulk storage containers: • Sections 112.8(c)(2) and (11) for petroleum oils • Sections 112.12(c)(2) and (11) for animal fats and vegetable oils These provisions previously required sized…

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  • Why did EPA wait so long to begin its investigation of the Norwood Landfill and Old Norwood Dump?

    In the months leading up to the preliminary assessment, EPA gathered information on the property to determine whether a site investigation under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) was warranted. EPA determined to proceed with an investigation and EPA began procuring contractor services to conduct the preliminary…

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  • SPCC Rule schedules for inspections, tests, and evaluations

    The SPCC rule requires inspections, tests, and evaluations of above ground containers (40 CFR §112.8(c)(6)). Does the rule set schedules for how often these need to be conducted? The SPCC Rule does not prescribe a specific frequency or methodology for performing the required inspections, evaluations, and tests for aboveground containers…

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  • What is the key question EPA tries to answer through a site investigation?

    Findings of the site investigation determine what hazardous substances may be present, whether they may be released to the environment, and any potential threat to human health. Information about the site that is collected in the preliminary assessment and site investigation phase helps EPA to evaluate the risks posed by…

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  • What are some uses of Vermiculite?

    Vermiculite has been used in various industries for over 80 years. It is used in the construction, agricultural, horticultural and industrial markets. Examples of products that contain vermiculite include potting soil mixes, loose fill insulation, and packing material. For more information, visit the EPA webpage: Protect Your Family from Asbestos-Contaminated…

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  • Are mobile refuelers exempt from integrity testing requirements?

    Pursuant to 40 CFR §112.8(c)(2), mobile refuelers are exempt from the secondary containment requirements for bulk storage containers. Are mobile refuelers also exempt from the requirements for integrity testing in §112.8(c)(6)? Since mobile refuelers are mobile or portable bulk storage containers, the other provisions of §112.8(c) still apply. Therefore, mobile…

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  • Does a home seller have to disclose to a potential buyer that a home contains asbestos? What about vermiculite?

    Federal law does not require the seller to disclose to a buyer that their home contains asbestos or vermiculite. State or local requirements may require disclosure. Contact your state about such requirements. Other Frequent Questions about Asbestos Learn About Asbestos Asbestos and School Buildings Information for Owners and Managers of…

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  • My attic has vermiculite insulation in it. Am I at risk? Should I take it out?

    If you have vermiculite insulation in your home, you should assume this material may be contaminated with asbestos and be aware of steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from exposure to asbestos. The EPA recommends that vermiculite insulation be left undisturbed. Airborne asbestos fibers present a…

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