Delaware City Refinery Emissions Exceed Permit Limits
Table of Contents
Recent reports indicate the DELAWARE City Refinery released excessive amounts of sulfur dioxide and other pollutants, raising concerns about air quality and public health.
Del. 9 communities affected by industrial pollution
More than 15,000 residents living in the del. 9 corridor face growing concerns over industrial pollution. Footage courtesy of Google Earth. 2/29/19
Damian Giletto,Delaware News Journal
- Delaware City Refinery is releasing high levels of the toxic sulfur dioxide,DNREC reports say.
- DNREC says the spill is the result of a boiler issue and is being repaired.
- Even limited exposure to sulfur dioxide is dangerous.
The DELAWARE City Refinery, as reported by the DELAWARE department of Natural resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), has been emitting thousands of pounds of sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere since May 25, surpassing permitted levels.
Despite these emissions, a DNREC news release on May 31 stated that an air quality monitoring station on Route 9, located east of the refinery, has recorded sulfur dioxide levels within acceptable limits.
According to DNREC reports, the release of the toxic chemical compound, along with carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, and ammonia, is attributed to a mechanical failure, wich is currently undergoing repairs.
An alert issued on May 30 indicated that a boiler failure was responsible for the hourly release of 1,450 pounds of sulfur dioxide into the air.
DNREC reported that, as of 3 p.m. on May 31, the highest daily average sulfur dioxide level recorded at the Route 9 station was 2.5 parts per billion on May 26,well below the health standard of 75 parts per billion.
The highest hourly measurement at the Route 9 station reached 25 parts per billion at 6 a.m. on May 31, with most hourly recordings at or below 2 parts per billion, according to DNREC.
Health Risks of Sulfur Dioxide Exposure
Sulfur dioxide is a colorless gas known to irritate the eyes and respiratory system.
“It may cause death or permanent injury after vrey short exposure to small quantities,”
A DNREC report warns that even brief exposure to small amounts of sulfur dioxide can be dangerous.
The alert outlined potential signs and symptoms of exposure, including coughing, choking, shortness of breath, sneezing, wheezing, and chest discomfort. More severe effects could include upper airway swelling or obstruction, bronchoconstriction, pneumonia, pulmonary edema, and respiratory paralysis.
The alert also cautioned about possible gastrointestinal effects such as nausea,vomiting,and abdominal pain,advising individuals experiencing these symptoms to seek medical attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the primary sources of sulfur dioxide emissions?
- The primary sources include power plants,refineries,and industrial facilities that burn fossil fuels containing sulfur.
- What are the health risks associated with sulfur dioxide exposure?
- Exposure can cause respiratory irritation, coughing, choking, and more severe conditions like bronchoconstriction and pulmonary edema.
- How is air quality monitored near industrial facilities?
- Air quality monitoring stations are strategically placed to measure pollutant levels and ensure they remain within acceptable health standards.
Earlier in March, a $500,000 grant from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) intended to monitor pollution around the refinery was canceled due to concerns related to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
The refinery, operated by PBF, is a large facility situated on the DELAWARE River, refining crude oil and other petroleum substances.
