The Unified Command Team is issuing daily updates to keep the public informed of the latest response activities following the Cantonment Digester Incident that occurred Sunday, Jan. 22. The Unified Command Team is comprised of International Paper, Escambia County EMA/Public Safety, Florida Department of Health, Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The Unified Command Team’s top priority is the safety of Floridians and our environment.
Remediation
- The Unified Command Team finalized the Cantonment Digester Incident remediation and water sampling plans.
- Remediation teams, comprised of more than 100 individuals, are dispersed throughout the surrounding area and remediation efforts are in full operation.
- According to the Unified Command Team, clean-up efforts are expected to take several weeks to complete.
- Remediation of roadways and houses is underway, including the following, as necessary:
- Currently remediation on the roofs is performed using a low-pressure, high-volume application where runoff is then captured and contained, avoiding permeation into the soil.
- Remediation workers are outfitted in personal protective equipment, including fabric coveralls, gloves and face masks, which is suitable for the type of work being performed in the remediation process. No respirators are being used by remediation workers as the nature of the work being performed does not warrant this level of protection.
Community
- On behalf of the Unified Command Team, for the fourth consecutive day International Paper representatives went door to door to visit with residents to answer questions. Their objectives were to ensure residents had updated information and to emphasize the company’s commitment to continue the remediation efforts until all affected areas are complete.
- Area residents have been provided with access agreements which require homeowners’ signatures before workers can begin remediation of houses and personal property. Submitting the signed access form is critical to expedite the remediation process.
- Residents who believe their property may have been affected by the material released as a result of the incident and would like further information should call the Joint Information Center available 24/7 at 1-850-968-4208.
- Since Monday, the Joint Information Center has processed more than 170 calls from area residents.
Health
- Short-term skin irritation is the most common side effect of exposure. Exposed areas should be washed using soap and warm water.
Environment
- Environmental monitoring and sampling is being conducted and will continue until cleanup is complete.
- According to Center for Toxicology and Environmental Health Senior Toxicologist, Dr. Paul Nony, who is onsite as part of the remediation team, the material released as a result of the Cantonment Digester Incident has no way to get into the drinking water system, and any overnight rain was prevented from accessing storm drains.
- Dr. Nony further acknowledged tests thus far have confirmed pH levels of 9.9 or lower. Comparison of other common household items with relative pH levels include:
o Antacids – pH 10.5
o Baking soda – pH 9.0
o Sea water – pH 8.0
o Household glass cleaners – pH 10.7
