The most common human exposure to beryllium is inhalation within the workplace. Beryllium has been classified as a Group 1 carcinogen to humans, with inhalation leading to respiratory diseases like lung cancer.
Environmental Hazards
There are many chemicals that exist naturally or through industrial processes in our communities that can have impacts on health. Lakelands Public Health works to consistently monitor any potential hazards and share the most up-to-date information to mitigate risks.
Beryllium
Beryllium is a silver-gray metallic element that occurs naturally at low concentrations in rocks and soil. It is also used in many industries due to its exceptional strength, stability, and heat-absorbing capability.
Beryllium is used at the BWXT Peterborough facility in the fuel bundle manufacturing process. The maximum allowable concentrations for beryllium in ambient air in Ontario are 0.01 micrograms per cubic meter. BWXT sets its own action limits below legal requirements and will notify the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission of any levels above that threshold. Monitoring reports from BWXT are publicly available online.
Polychlorinated Biphenals (PCBs)
Polychlorinated Biphenals (PCBs) are synthetic chemicals that have been used in many industrial materials (e.g., coolants, lubricants for transformers). In 1977, a ban was placed on manufacturing and importing PCBs, along with phasing out and strict regulations of those currently in use. PCBs do not break down easily; trace levels are found in the air and water all around the world. Everyone is exposed to low levels of PCBs.
PCBs are toxic and classified as a possible human carcinogen, particularly liver and kidney cancer. They are not known to cause birth defects but may affect infant behaviour or the immune system of a child born to a mother with high levels of PCB exposure. Most of what is known on the human health effects is based on job-related or accidental exposures.
Low levels of exposure (e.g., through air, soil, water, food) are unlikely to cause adverse health effects. However, people who consume large amounts of certain sport fish, wild game, and marine animals may be at higher risk.
Trichloroethylene (TCE)
Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a clear, colourless liquid used mainly for degreasing metal parts in the automotive and metal industries. It is also used in some household products (e.g., glues, adhesives, paint removers, rug or metal cleaners, etc.).
Effects on human health vary, depending on how:
- Much a person was exposed to (via breathing, drinking, eating, or contact);
- Long a person was exposed; AND
- Susceptible a person is to the effects of TCE.
Short-term high levels of exposure may lead to:
- Drowsiness
- Decreased memory and perception
- Visual effects
- Anesthesia
Exposure over months or years may lead to:
- Cancers (kidney, liver, lymphoid tissues)
Other effects from sub-chronic (months) or chronic (years) of exposure are not well known. Research is ongoing. Potential effects include those to the central nervous system, kidneys, liver, respiratory system, developmental and reproductive systems.
Uranium
Uranium is a naturally occurring element, found in low levels in various rocks, soils, water, air, plants, and very low concentrations in animal tissues. Uranium is not classified as a carcinogen. The breakdown of uranium in confined spaces (e.g., homes) can lead to build-up of radon gas.
People are primarily exposed to very low amounts of uranium through ingesting food and water. Municipally supplied water is routinely tested for many materials, including uranium. Water from private wells may also contain uranium; you can have your well water tested at an accredited lab. The Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standards sets a maximum acceptable concentration of uranium in drinking water at 0.02mg/L.
There are several uranium processing facilities in Ontario, including within our region. Studies have shown no increase in risks to the health of those living in these communities. The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission oversees rigorous programs to control exposure to radiation and chemical agents, as well as any potential health risks. These facilities publicly release annual reports on their environmental performance.
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