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"Navy Seeks Participants for Benzene Study" September 23, 2008 The Department of the Navy seeks Marines and other individuals who may have been exposed to contaminated water at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina from 1957 to 1987. The drinking water that came from three different wells was contaminated with tetrachloroethylene, dichloroethylene and benzene — chemical solvents used in applications such as dry cleaning and pesticides. The contaminated wells were also the water suppliers for the on-base treatment plants. The Environmental Protection Agency discovered that the water was contaminated with tetrachloroethylene, dichloroethylene and benzene in 1980; however the wells were not shut down until 1984. Sources of Contamination According to reports, an off-base dry-cleaning company is responsible for the tetrachloroethylene contamination. The company, apparently, did not properly dispose of its waste, which leaked the toxic chemicals into the water supply. Underground storage facilities are said to be the source of other contaminants found in the drinking water. Results of Contamination under Investigation So far, 12,598 former Camp Lejeune residents, including Marines, have been tested and screened as part of the water study. Results from the study have linked the contamination to high risks of birth defects, childhood cancers and low birth weight among the children of those exposed to the toxic chemicals. The investigation continues as more participants come forth to the Department of the Navy. According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease, water sources should not contain more than 5 micrograms per liter of any one of the three solvents: tetrachloroethylene, dichloroethylene and benzene. The Navy is asking those who would like to participate in the study to call the Marines toll free at: (877) 261-9782. (Source: BaxterBulletine.com) Have you or someone you love been exposed to Benzene or any other toxic chemical? If so, you should contact us today to speak to an experienced benzene attorney who will evaluate your case and fight to protect your legal rights. (Source: Examiner) |