PCBs belong to a family of human-made organic chemicals known as chlorinated hydrocarbons. PCBs were made in the United States from 1929 until domestic manufacturing was banned in 1979. They range in toxicity and vary in consistency from thin, light-colored liquids to yellow or black waxy solids. PCBs are nonflammable and chemically stable with good electrical-insulating properties. Among their industrial and commercial applications were:
- Electrical, heat transfer and hydraulic equipment
- Plasticizers in paints, plastics and rubber products
- Pigments, dyes and carbonless copy paper
Superfund is a federal program established by the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA). The program is administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to investigate and clean up sites contaminated with hazardous substances. Cleanup can be led and/or paid for by the EPA or the responsible party.
Site cleanup and safety
The cleanup process involves several steps, including site assessment, planning, remedial action and long-term monitoring. The EPA works with the company, state and local authorities to ensure safe, effective remediation.
Swimming and recreational activities in Choccolocco Creek are not banned by the presence of PCBs. People wanting to use the creek should consider all relevant factors to stay safe.
There are fish consumption advisories for PCBs and mercury for Choccolocco Creek. Check with the Alabama Department of Health or the Coosa Riverkeeper to learn more about these advisories.
If your property falls within the Anniston PCB site, contact the Alabama 811 utility service before digging. Contact Solutia at solutia@eastman.com or 256-862-5606 to determine if Solutia needs to provide support for this activity.
Protection of human health and the environment is paramount. The remedy put in place must serve that purpose.
The cleanup process depends on the complexity and severity of the contamination. Some cleanups can take several years. The EPA or the Anniston CAG will provide regular updates on cleanup progress.
Contact Solutia at solutia@eastman.com or 256-862-5606. Questions can be addressed concerning cleanup and if your property is in the Anniston PCB site.
Potential risks
Potential health risks vary depending on the type and level of contamination. Common risks include exposure to hazardous chemicals. This can cause respiratory issues, skin irritation and other health problems. The EPA provides information on specific contaminants found at the site and their associated risks.
Community involvement
Solutia encourages stakeholder involvement through public meetings, informational sessions and feedback. Stakeholders can also attend Anniston CAG-CD meetings to learn more about the site.
The Anniston Community Advisory Group for the Consent Decree is an advisory group that includes area residents. The group offers a public forum for people to discuss the Anniston PCB site.
The CAG meets bimonthly on the second Tuesday of the month. Meetings take place remotely via Zoom and sometimes in person.
For more information, visit the EPA's Superfund website or contact our community involvement coordinator at solutia@eastman.com or 256-862-5606.