Manganese were found at concentrations of health concern in surface soils at the Amsted and TIP sampling units. Frequent exposure of children for long periods of time to manganese in surface soils of these units may result in neurological effects. Children, particularly sensitive individuals, may develop immunological effects should frequent exposure to PCBs in surface soils at the BNR Railyard sampling unit occur for long periods of time. Lead concentrations were found elevated in surface soils, surface water, and sediments throughout the site. Comparatively, BNR Dismantling Yard, BNR Railyard, and Amsted sampling units had significantly high lead concentrations in surface soils.
Young children tend to be more susceptible to lead absorption and toxicity than adults.
For them, exposure to even low concentrations of lead over an extended period of time can result in long-term health effects, such as learning disabilities, decreased growth, hyperactivity, and impaired hearing should their blood lead be elevated from other lead sources. Adults with elevated blood lead levels may experience increased blood pressure, and impairment of hearing, vision, and muscle coordination. Trespassers can be exposed to carcinogenic PAHs should they come in contact with sediments during recreational activities at the site. Groundwater contamination has been identified primarily in four localized areas of the site. Should new industrial supply wells be installed in these areas, workers may be exposed to groundwater contaminants that could cause adverse health effects.