Headlines 4 April 2023

State releases April 3 East Palestine update

By
Ohio Governor's Office

The following are updates from the State of Ohio regarding remediation work at the site of the Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio.

Hazardous Waste Removal

Liquid wastewater and excavated soil are being consistently removed daily. According to the Ohio EPA, approximately 10 million gallons of liquid wastewater have been hauled out of East Palestine in total. There is currently a pile of approximately 20,800 tons of excavated soil waiting for removal from East Palestine, versus 14,700 tons that have been removed.

ACE Survey Update

For several weeks, the Ohio Department of Health, in conjunction with federal partners, has been surveying East Palestine residents and first responders to the derailment site about health symptoms experienced related to the derailment.

These surveys, called ACE (after chemical exposure) surveys, closed last Friday (March 31) at midnight for data analysis.

Of 212 respondents to the first responder survey, the top five symptoms reported were:

• Stuffy nose/sinus congestion – 26.4%
• Runny nose – 25.0%
• Increased congestion/phlegm – 21.7%
• Burning nose or throat – 20.3%
• Hoarseness – 15.1%.

The community ACE survey was taken by 534 residents. The top 5 symptoms residents reported were:
• Headache – 74.5%
• Anxiety – 61.4%
• Fatigue/tiredness – 53.2%
• Coughing – 53.0%
• Irritation/Pain/Burning eyes – 49.8%.

The purpose of the ACE survey was to gather data and information about initial impacts from chemical exposure in the community. ODH will review the information to potentially develop additional surveys or further public health action.

Health Assessment Clinic Current Hours

The Ohio Department of Health’s Health Assessment Clinic in East Palestine, operating in partnership with the Columbiana County Health District, is currently operating on a walk-in basis. Residents should arrive at least an hour before closing to ensure there is enough time to be served.

This week, the clinic is open Monday and Tuesday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The clinic is located at the First Church of Christ, 20 West Martin St. For information, call the Columbiana County Health District at 330-424-0272.

More Information and Previous Updates: ema.ohio.gov/eastpalestine.


 

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east palestine ohio