[boyleheightsbeat.com – 2024.08.21] State regulators have launched a contamination investigation near a dry cleaning business in Boyle Heights after a high concentration of harmful chemicals known to cause cancer were detected at the business, local health officials said.
Sloan’s Dry Cleaners and Laundry, located at 2924 Whittier Boulevard, had used Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) in past dry-cleaning operations that may have contaminated the soil and groundwater in the surrounding area, according to a notice by the California Department of Toxic Substances (DTSC).
PCE is a nonflammable colorless liquid used as a dry cleaning agent that can cause cancer in humans. Since January 2023, California has prohibited PCE from being used by dry cleaners.
In June, DTSC oversaw indoor air, outdoor air and soil vapor in the area around the dry cleaner. Results from the investigation found that PCE concentrations in indoor air exceeded the commercial screening level in the Environmental Protection Agency’s risk management range. There was also reason to believe that “illegal discharge of the substance has occurred” at some point during the business’ on-site dry cleaning operations, the notice said.
Sloan’s Dry Cleaners and Laundry has been operating at the location since 1942, with on-site dry-cleaning ending in 2013. Currently, the business offers drop-off/pick-up services, with dry-cleaning happening off-site.
DTSC is currently investigating the site and implementing temporary remediation measures to address the high concentration of PCE found in indoor air. If necessary, the agency will also conduct cleanup measures at the site and at other businesses located nearby, according to its notice.
The notice was shared under Proposition 65, known as the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986, which requires California residents to be informed about possible exposure to chemicals known to the state to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
A DTSC spokesperson said there is no immediate cause for concern for residents living in the vicinity and that the agency will provide updates on the investigation.
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