During land treatment activities at a former wood-treating site in EPA Region 8, excessive odors were generated that caused public and regulatory concern. An investigation was begun immediately to determine the source and composition of the odors and to determine if there were any potential health effects from exposure to the odors. Air samples were collected with flux chambers placed directly on the surface of the land treatment unit (LTU) and analyzed to determine the composition of chemicals in the samples. Samples from the flux chambers were also sent for odor characterization by an odor-testing panel. Additional air samples were collected at the site boundary in summa canisters for chemical analyses. The results of the analytical testing were evaluated to determine if unacceptable exposures were occurring. The analytical results were also evaluated to determine the specific compounds responsible for the odors. Results of the odor-testing panel evaluation were used to predict off-site odor intensities. While the evaluation determined that the areal extent of off-site odors could be reduced by modifications to LTU management practices, the odor intensities experienced by residents immediately adjacent to the site would not be sufficiently lowered by these practices. Additional odor control techniques were developed and recommended to reduce or eliminate emissions from the land treatment unit between and during active management activities. Techniques included vegetative planting, wind diversion fencing, odor masking agents and various cover materials.
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