The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 7 conducted an environmental assessment in Fairfield, Iowa, and identified groundwater contaminated with trichloroethylene (TCE), a synthetic, volatile, colorless liquid primarily used as a metal degreaser and chemical solvent.
EPA identified a potential vapor intrusion exposure pathway during a Preliminary Assessment (PA) evaluating potential releases from a former dry-cleaning facility at 1100 W. Burlington Avenue. The PA followed a December 2024 Pre-Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) Screening at the site.
Vapor intrusion is a process by which volatile chemicals in soil or groundwater evaporate and migrate as vapors into overlying buildings, potentially affecting indoor air quality. These chemicals can originate from spills or leaks, move through groundwater beneath buildings, and, if volatile, seep into structures.
Sampling conducted during the PA detected TCE and cis-1,2-dichloroethene (DCE) in groundwater at concentrations exceeding federal Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) and EPA Region 7 shallow groundwater Vapor Intrusion Screening Levels (VISLs) for residential and commercial exposures. When shallow groundwater VISLs are exceeded near occupied buildings, further evaluation is needed to determine whether vapor intrusion is occurring.
Exceedances of the TCE indoor air action level may present a risk to human health and can prompt EPA to prioritize early or interim actions. Health effects from TCE depend on the amount and duration of exposure. Exposure to moderate levels may cause headaches, dizziness, and sleepiness.
EPA Region 7 is conducting additional sampling in the area and continues coordination with Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) for additional groundwater and Subsurface Intrusion (SSI) pathway site investigations.
