Environmental Testing at Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM) Week of April 21, 2014 Presented by Ohio EPA and Summit County Public Health

Background : Former State Road Shopping Center undergoes voluntary environmental assessment. Nov. 2013: Complete environmental assessment is presented to Ohio EPA. Feb. 2014: After review, Ohio EPA risk assessor recommends sampling IHM property for potential impacts. April 21, 2014: Sampling to begin.

How Could IHM be Impacted? Contaminated ground water discovered west of Lillis Drive. Contaminants in ground water have the potential to evaporate and move as a gas through soil and into building foundations (aka: vapor intrusion).

Is There an Existing Risk at IHM? We are not aware of any reported health impacts and have no indication an immediate health threat exists. No concerns with drinking water. IHM’s water provided by Cuyahoga Falls Water Treatment Plant. Out of an abundance of caution, Ohio EPA believes environmental testing is warranted to ensure the health and safety of IHM community.

Chemicals of Interest TCE (trichloroethylene). – Manmade solvent used to degrease metal parts, in adhesives and paint/spot removers. PCE (tetrachloroethylene). – Also known as PERC (perchloroethylene). – Manmade solvent most often associated with dry cleaning. The source of chemicals in ground water under neighboring property is unknown. Historical releases/spills of these chemicals have been detected elsewhere in Ohio.

Effects of TCE/PCE Vapor Exposure Breathing high levels of TCE/PCE may cause dizziness, headaches, lung irritation and more. Breathing very high levels for prolonged periods poses a serious concern, especially for susceptible populations. Potential carcinogen.

Summary of Sampling Work scheduled April Ohio EPA’s Site Investigation Field Unit (SIFU) will utilize an onsite mobile lab while sampling. Types and locations of sampling: – Exterior soil, sub-slab and indoor air samples. – Locations (see map).

Sampling Results On the afternoon of April 25, an update will be provided to the IHM community via the webpage. Complete results and analysis to follow ASAP—a few weeks. Summit County Public Health (SCPH) will review results and suggest any additional actions, if warranted. Follow-up meetings will be scheduled with employees, parents and parishioners.

What’s Next? If results show no concerns with vapor intrusion, Ohio EPA will continue to monitor the area in the future. If contaminants are found at a level of concern, Ohio EPA and SCPH will recommend actions to remove any risk.

For More Information – Click on the IHM link in the “What’s New in AQ” box. – Check back afternoon of April 25 for an update. Mike Settles, Ohio EPA, , – For questions concerning sampling. Dawn Meyers, SCPH, , – For health-related questions.