Identified as a Superfund site in 1983, the land which once hosted the Cosden Chemical Coatings Corporation has become a prime example of what it means to be a Superfund site. The extent of chemicals detected at the site is far beyond the accepted limits for human safety.
From the early 1900s to the 1980s, the Cosden Chemical Coatings Corporation primarily manufactured various types of coatings, including paint and varnish. Throughout its operation, the company was found to have improperly disposed of hazardous waste materials, contaminating the surrounding soil, groundwater, and surface water.
In the late 1980s, the cleanup process began and the site has since undergone several stages of remediation. Despite these efforts, hazardous chemicals such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), heavy metals, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) have persisted in the soil, groundwater, and surface water at the site, posing a significant health risk to nearby residents and workers.
While this site is not yet available for public use, it has seen quite a bit of progress over the last few decades. As of 2023, the EPA has deemed any contamination to be under control. This means that, as of the most recent sampling, they did not find any “Unacceptable human exposure pathways,” and any groundwater contamination is not likely to make its way into the surface water supply.
After the removal of more than 10,000 tons of soil, 3,000 gallons of liquid waste, and the treatment of over 280 million gallons of water, the site has been revitalized as a park space. However, until the groundwater is fully cleaned, the space will remain unavailable for public use.
For now, the groundwater will continue to be treated and the site will continue to be tested every five years until it is deemed safe for public access. The next assessment is expected to take place in 2027.
Exposure to the hazardous chemicals found at the Cosden Superfund site can cause a wide range of health issues. The majority of these contaminants have been linked to neurological issues, various types of cancers, kidney and liver damage, and a plethora of other health effects.
Among the chemicals found at this site are volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Both of these types of chemicals have been found to cause various health problems, including liver and kidney damage, respiratory issues, and neurological effects. Long-term exposure may increase the risk of cancer, particularly in the liver, kidneys, and lungs.
While the chemicals at this site are in great excess, heavy metals can also be found throughout the site and come with various dangers of their own. Exposure to heavy metals like lead, chromium, and mercury can result in neurological disorders, kidney damage, and developmental issues in children. In some cases, heavy metal exposure may also increase the risk of certain types of cancer.
If you believe that you or a loved one has suffered injuries or health issues as a result of exposure to the hazardous chemicals found at the Cosden Superfund site, it is crucial to understand your legal rights and the steps you can take to pursue a case. Potential plaintiffs may be eligible for compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and even decreased property values.
OnderLaw is dedicated to holding companies accountable for their negligence, especially when it results in terrible conditions for those who fall victim to it. If you feel you may be experiencing a sickness as a result of nearby contaminants, it is crucial that you seek medical attention immediately.
To reach out to our experienced environmental law team, click here.
