More than a month has passed since a major fire consumed the SPS Technologies aerospace facility in Jenkintown. The company continues to monitor the air and nearby creeks, assuring the community that there are currently no health risks. David Dugan, a spokesperson for SPS Technologies’ parent company, Precision Castparts Corp., stated, “There are no constituents of concern downstream from the SPS facility at levels that threaten human health or aquatic life.” However, he noted the challenge of assessing water quality before the fire and potential contaminants unrelated to the incident.
The company has set up a dedicated website for ongoing updates about the fire and its aftermath. They are committed to ensuring the safety of the surrounding community and will continue testing air and water for the foreseeable future.
The fire produced thick plumes of black smoke, leading to evacuations and calls for residents to shelter in place. Neighbors reported a chemical smell in their homes and noticed debris scattered around. Some expressed concerns about possible long-term health effects. Fortunately, state environmental officials have confirmed that drinking water was not affected. They reported no harmful chemicals detected in the air outside the facility.
In the weeks after the fire, cyanide was found in the Tookany Creek. Initial tests during the fire indicated the presence of cyanide at dangerous levels. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) observed a sharp decline in cyanide levels in the creek shortly after the fire, eventually dropping to undetectable levels by February 19. This improvement was attributed to a swift response from environmental officials who resampled the area.
Cyanide, which was part of the manufacturing materials at SPS Technologies, raised alarms among local residents. A report from TRC Environmental Corporation, the consultant hired by SPS, detailed these findings. Although a small fish kill was noted in the creek, officials believe it was primarily due to the chlorine-rich water used in firefighting efforts.
By March 16, testing indicated that cyanide levels remained low, with most samples falling below detection limits. Gerald Kauffman, director of the University of Delaware’s Water Resources Center, reviewed these results and commented, “It looks like things have settled down on the creek since the event occurred. The results came up clean.”
The incident highlighted the importance of environmental monitoring in response to industrial accidents. Quick and thorough action by state and local agencies can mitigate long-term harm to both the ecosystem and community health.
For further information on the environmental impacts of industrial activities, you can check the latest findings from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.
Check out this related article: Stand with the Real Health Care Heroes: How Gaza’s Medical Professionals Are Reshaping Care Amidst Crisis
Source linksps technologies,whyy news climate desk
