The inspection turned up possible PCBs, or polychlorinated biphenyls, a toxic substance that was used in electric transformers and has been linked to cancer. There also are old fuel tanks at the site. Doug MaKitten, spokesman for the Army Corps of Engineers, said that the extent of cleanup at the site will depend on what is found, but that PCBs probably are present. Metal screens were bolted over all windows and doors, and a second layer of barbed wire is being installed on the ground inside the fence to increase security, said Capt. Chuck Anthony, spokesman for the state defense agency.
Elemental mercury is an odorless liquid metal.
Gary Gill, deputy director of the state Department of Health, said the primary public health concern is breathing mercury vapors, not touching the silvery substance. The Honolulu Advertiser, a division of Gannett Co .