The state health department has completed its health assessment of the TVA Kingston coal ash spill disaster site. Key findings according to the TDH:

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• Touching the coal ash could cause local skin irritation, but metals in the ash are not likely to be absorbed from merely touching the coal ash.

• Municipal drinking water from the Kingston and Rockwood water has continuously met drinking water standards. No evidence has been found for groundwater contamination by coal ash in well or spring water within four miles of the coal ash release.

• Avoid using the Emory River at the site of the coal ash release (near Emory River mile 2) because of physical hazards associated with cleanup efforts and from the volume of ash present. Recreational use of the Emory, Clinch and Tennessee Rivers is safe outside the area of the lower Emory River down to the confluence of the Emory and Clinch Rivers. Avoid areas where ash is visible, even if it is outside the area of immediate impact and river closures. Previous fish advisories should be followed.

• Ambient air quality near the coal ash release is not expected to pose a health risk as long as adequate dust suppression measures are in place. No health risk is expected from occasionally breathing coal ash for short periods of time. If fugitive coal ash is present in greater concentration than National Ambient Air Quality Standards, particulate matter from airborne coal ash could pose a health risk, especially for those with pre-existing respiratory or heart conditions.

The Tennessee Department of Health has posted the draft report for public comment at their website. Public comment must be received by Feb. 9, 2010. For questions and clarification, contact TDH at 615-741-7247 or toll-free 1-800-404-3006 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT. Public comments about the draft Public Health Assessment should be submitted in writing. You can send comments by e-mail to EEP.Health@tn.gov or write to:

Environmental Epidemiology Program
Tennessee Department of Health
1st Floor Cordell Hull Building
425 5th Avenue North
Nashville TN 37243

SEE ALSO:

• Press release/summary
• Fact sheet
• Full report