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Office of Children's
Health Protection
| Washington, DC 20460
The ERAlChildren's
K , ental Health
Yearboi
EPA 100-R-98-100
June 1998
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Vice President Al Gore
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UNfTED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
WASHINGTON, DC. 20460
THE ADWiMSTRATDR
June 1998
Dear Reader,
It gives us great pleasure to share with you "EPA's Children's Environmental Health Yearbook" representing
the United States Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) current actions to protect children from environmental
hazards. It contains the latest information on the unique threats environmental hazards present to children and de-
scribes EPA's efforts to combat these hazards. It is our hope that this report will be a valuable resource for the public.
The special susceptibility of children to certain environmental hazards as well as the changing nature of child-
hood illness have prompted the Clinton Administration to make children's health a high priority. In September 1996,
the EPA established a seven step National Agenda to Protect Children's Health from Environmental Threats. In April
1997, President Clinton issued an Executive Order requiring all federal agencies to make the protection of children a
high priority in implementing their statutory responsibilities and fulfilling their overall missions. The Office of Children's
Health Protection (OCHP) was created to coordinate children's health issues across EPA.
The volume and breadth of this report demonstrate the hard work taking place in the Agency to focus signifi-
cant attention on protecting children's health. This work illustrates the commitment by EPA employees to safeguarding
children against environmental hazards. The Clinton Administration's focus on children will continue to grow, reflecting
an enduring effort to protecting the health of children.
Sincerely,
Uarol M. tsrowner
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EPA ChildREN's ENVIRONMENTA! HEAlih YEARbook
CONTENTS
Chapter 1 Introduction 1
Our Children's World 1
Special Vulnerabilities 1
EPA Takes Action 1
President Acts on Behalf of Children 2
EPA Launches New Office 2
Organization of this Report 4
References 6
Chapter 2 Asthma and Other Respiratory Effects 7
Definition 7
Possible Environmental Factors 8
Summary of EPA Activities 11
EPA Projects on Asthma and Other Respiratory Effects 12
Indoor Air Quality IAQ Tools for Schools 12
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (Secondhand Smoke) 17
Indoor Air Outreach and Intervention 18
Research on Indoor Air Quality and Asthma and Other Respiratory
Illness Among Children 22
Outdoor Air Quality 23
Research on Outdoor Air Quality and Asthma and Other Respiratory
Illness Among Children 25
References 30
Chapter 3 Childhood Cancer 33
Definition 33
Possible Environmental Factors 34
Summary of EPA Activities 36
EPA Projects Related to Cancer 37
Radon 37
Asbestos 38
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Ultraviolet Light 40
Hazardous Waste 40
References 43
Chapter 4 Developmental and Neurological Toxicity 45
Definition 45
Possible Environmental Factors 46
Summary of EPA Activities 48
EPA Projects on Developmental and Neurological Toxicity 51
Lead 51
Endocrine Disruptors 72
PCBsandDioxin 74
Mercury 76
References 80
Chapter 5 Health Effects of Pesticides 83
Definition 83
Potential Health Effects from Pesticide Exposure 84
Possible Environmental Factors 84
Summary of EPA Activities 86
EPA Projects on Health Effects of Pesticides 89
Strengthened Standards and Better Public Information 89
Support for Integrated Pest Management 91
Expanded Enforcement Efforts 94
Understanding Risks to Children 96
References 102
Chapter 6 Potential Risks from Contaminated Water 105
Potential Waterborne Risks 105
Summary of EPA Activities 107
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Projects on Contaminants in Water and Fish 109
Contaminants in Water 109
Contaminants in Fish 114
References 117
Chapter 7 Predicting Health Risks to Children 119
EPA Assesses Risk to Protect Children and their Environment 119
EPA Policy Initiatives and Research Targeting Children 120
EPA Projects to Improve Risk Assessment 122
Water 122
Hazardous Waste 123
Exposure 127
Cumulative Risk 128
References 130
Chapter 8 Protecting Children Worldwide 131
EPA's Role as International Leader in Environmental Protection 131
The Declaration of the Environmental Leaders of the Eight on Children's
Environmental Health 131
EPA's International Activities 132
EPA International Projects 134
Asthma and Other Respiratory Effects 134
Developmental and Neurological Toxicity 135
Health Effects of Pesticides 136
Potential Risks from Contaminated Water 137
Chapter 9 Environmental Education Related to Children's Health 139
Purposes of Environmental Education 139
How Environmental Education Addresses Children's Health Issues 139
Educating Children 139
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Educating Parents and Teachers 140
Summary of EPA Activities 140
EPA Environmental Education Projects 142
Chapter 10 Enhanced Community Right-to-Know 151
Improving Public Access to Information Needed to Protect Children's Health 151
EPA's Community Right-to-Know Activities 152
EPA Community Right-to-Know Projects 154
Chapter 11 Children's Health Resources 159
ContactingEPA 159
EPA Headquarters 159
EPARegions 159
Obtaining EPA Publications 162
EPA Materials, Tools, and Internet Resources Related to Children's Health 164
Asthma and Other Respiratory Effects 164
Childhood Cancer 171
Developmental and Neurological Effects 177
Health Effects of Pesticides 183
Potential Risks from Contaminated Water 187
Environmental Education 191
Enhanced Community Right-to-Know 194
Other Federal Agencies with Programs Related to Children's Environmental Health ... 195
Glossary 199
Acronyms and Abbreviations 205
Index 209
Environmental Justice Projects 209
EPA Program Offices 210
EPARegions[[[ 217
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OUR Chi Id REN'S WoRld
Our children live in a world much different from the one in which we were raised. In
recent decades, about 50,000 synthetic chemicals have been produced in the United
States and many have dispersed into the environmental)
Now that many of the childhood diseases prevalent in the past can be prevented or
controlled with vaccines and antibiotics, there has been a shift to treating more chronic
conditions. These conditions include, for example, asthma, learning disabilities, birth
defects, and childhood cancers. An estimated 4.8 million children under 1 8 years of age
have asthma.(2,3) About 1 50,000 children with asthma are hospitalized each year, and
600 die from the disease. (4) Asthma treatment was estimated to cost $6 .2 billion in 1990;
today this figure is expected to be substantially higher because of the increase in disease
incidence and medical costs.(5)
The overall frequency of childhood cancer has increased over the past two decades.(6,7)
The trends in some cancer rates suggest the need for a closer examination of the underly-
ing causes of cancer in children. This includes determining the role environmental con-
taminants may play in causing disease.
Children may have a special vulnerability to certain toxic substances, such as lead. Their
vulnerability exists for a variety of reasons. For instance, children may be more heavily
exposed to certain toxic substances in the environment than adults. Pound for pound of
body weight, children breathe more air, drink more water, and eat more food than adults.
In addition, their behavior patterns, such as play close to the ground and hand-to-mouth
activities, can increase their exposure to potential toxics in the environment. Furthermore,
the systems of a child's body are still developing making children less able to metabolize,
detoxify, and excrete some toxic substances than adults. However, it is not unusual for
children to be less sensitive or respond differently than adults to medicines and other
chemicals.(8,9) Our understanding of children's vulnerability to toxic substances is compli-
cated because the degree of vulnerability varies with age and developmental stage.
EPA
AcrioN
In recognition of these factors, Administrator Carol Browner directed the Environmental
Protection Agency in the fall of 1 995 to explicitly and consistently take into account
environmental health risks to infants and children in all risk characterizations and public
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health standards set for the United States. In the fall of 1 996, the Administrator announced a
seven-step National Agenda to Protect Children s Health from Environmental Threats.
This NAiioNAl AqENcta INSTRUCTS T^E AqEixicy TO:
• Ensure that all standards set by EPA are protective of any heightened risks faced
by children.
• Develop a scientific research strategy focused on the gaps in knowledge regarding
child-specific susceptibility and exposure to environmental pollutants.
• Develop new, comprehensive policies to address cumulative and simultaneous
exposures faced by children.
• Expand community right-to-know allowing families to make informed choices
concerning environmental exposures to their children.
• Encourage parental responsibility for protecting their children from environmental
health threats by providing them with basic information.
• Encourage and expand educational efforts with health care providers and
environmental professionals so they can identify, prevent, and reduce environmental
health threats to children.
• Provide the necessary funding to address children's environmental health as a top
priority among relative health risks.
ACTS ON
of
On April 21,1 997, President Clinton signed the Executive Order on the Protection of
Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks. This Executive Order
requires all federal agencies to assign a high priority to addressing health and safety risks to
children, coordinate research priorities on children's health, and ensure that their standards
take into account special risks to children. The Executive Order creates a Task Force on
Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks to Children that will establish a coordinated
research agenda and enlist public input for these efforts.
EPA LAUNCHES NEW OfficE
In May 1 997, Administrator Browner established the Office of Children's Health Protec-
tion (OCHP) to support the Agency as it implements the President's Executive Order
as well as the National Agenda to Protect Children s Health from Environmental
Threats. The mission of OCHP is to make the protection of children's health a fundamental
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goal of public health and environmental protection in the United States. OCHP will support
and facilitate Agency efforts to protect children's health from environmental threats. This
Children s Environmental Health Yearbook highlights EPA activities that protect children's
health from environmental hazards and is among the first projects of the new office.
Office of Children's Health Protection Highlights
EPA Administrator, Carol Browner, convened the first federal conference addressing the preventable causes of
childhood cancer on September 15 and 16,1997. Recommendations for aresearch agenda included a call for a
National Childhood Cancer Registry and standardizing information, such as exposure history and family health data.
EPA and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) are establishing federally funded research centers
dedicated to the protection of children's health from environmental threats. The centers will focus on the
environmental causes of children's illnesses and disorders. They will seek an understanding of the mechanisms of
respiratory disease, such as asthma, and they will study the effects of environmental contaminants, such as lead,
mercury, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), on intellectual andphysical development. Also, they will institute new
community-based partnerships for prevention.
The Office of Children's Health Protection chairs an EPA Board on Children's Environmental Health that will ensure
the integration of Agency activities affecting children and serve as a catalyst for actions that will protect children.
Administrator Browner and Health and Human Services Secretary Donna Shalala co-chair the Task Force on
Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks to Children. On October 9,1997, the Task Force met to implement
President Clinton's Executive Order. Work groups were established to coordinate federal data needs and research
and to facilitate children's environmental health programs across the federal agencies.
A Federal Advisory Committee on Children's Health Protection has been established. This broad-basedcommittee
will advise EPA on children's environmental health issues as it develops regulations, guidance, and policies;
communicates with the public; and conducts research.
EPA has already begun to fulfill the requirements of the National Agenda and Executive
Order. Some of the more visible examples include certain updated air quality standards,
implementation of the 1996 Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) Amendments, and the
1996 Food Quality Protection Act Amendments to the Food Drug and Cosmetic Act.
• The Clinton Administration's 1997 air standards for particulate matter and ozone
provide additional health protection to 35 million children and set standards for fine
particulate matter for the first time.(l 0) The strengthening of the ozone standard is
expected to result in one million fewer incidents of decreased lung function in children
eachyear.(ll)
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The 1996 Food Quality Protection Act contains specific provisions to protect the
health of infants and children in the absence of complete data on the harmful effects of
pesticides. It also calls for the re-evaluation of nearly 10,000 existing pesticide
tolerances within a ten-year period. Pesticide tolerances are the levels of pesticide
residues that the government allows in food.
The 1996 SD WA Amendments include a new focus on setting priorities based on risk.
EPA will decide which waterborne contaminants to regulate under the SD WA based
on data about the health risks the contaminant may pose, its likely occurrence in public
water systems, and the projected benefit of reducing the risk. EPA will identify groups
of sensitive people, called subpopulations, who are at greater risk than the general
public from exposure to drinking water contaminants. These sensitive subpopulations
include infants, children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with weakened
immune systems. The goal is to protect the people who are most sensitive to each
contaminant and assure that the health of children is protected.
The principles of environmental justice—that all people must have the opportunity to
live in a healthy environment and that environmental laws apply without discrimination
based on race, ethnicity, culture, or economic status—guide EPA's efforts to increase
and improve access to education programs for the poor, immigrants, and ethnic and
racial minorities. A great many EPA children's health projects target urban environ-
mental problems and tribal health threats.
izAiioN of ihis REPORT
The EPA Children s Environmental Health Yearbook is meant to be a resource guide of
EPA activities for the public and a tool for the Agency to use in protecting children's health
from environmental hazards. The Yearbook includes sections on asthma and other respi-
ratory effects; childhood cancer; developmental and neurological toxicity; health effects of
pesticides; and potential risk from contaminated surface water and ground water. Addi-
tional chapters describe improvements in predicting health risks to children, highlight
international activities to protect children, identify environmental education programs
addressing issues of children's health, and describe EPA's expansion of individual's and
families' right-to-know about environmental hazards.
Each chapter outlines EPA efforts to address potential environmental health threats. EPA
projects may relate to more than one health effect or risk. For instance, even though most
of the environmental tobacco smoke projects are summarized in the chapter on asthma
and respiratory effects, the same projects are also relevant to the childhood cancer chapter.
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The brief descriptions of EPA projects include contacts for more information. The final
section directs readers to additional EPA resources for more information.
The Yearbook identifies areas where research has established a link between a harmful
health effect and exposure to a contaminant. Two examples are the effect of lead on the
brains of young children and of nitrates on the oxygenation of infants. The Yearbook also
includes a discussion of environmental contaminants where a link between exposure and
adverse health effects may only be suspected in children—not proven, especially at the
low levels of contamination generally found in the environment. Harmful effects from
exposure to contaminants during childhood might not manifest themselves until later in life.
EPA is focusing significant attention on protecting children's health, as demonstrated in this
Yearbook. However, much basic and applied research remains to be done to establish or
refute links between exposure to environmental factors and specific health effects. EPA is
conducting research to better understand and prevent environmental health risks.
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REfERENCES
1. SOCMA. Undated. Fact Sheet: The Batch Chemical Industry. Synthetic Organic
Chemical Manufacturers Association, Washington, DC.
2. CDC. 1995. Vital and Health Statistics, National Hospital Discharge Survey: Annual
Summary, 1993 (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health
Service, National Center for Health Statistics). Department of Health and Human
Services, Publication Number PHS 96-1782. August 1995. Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention.
3. CDC. 1995. Vital and Health Statistics, National Hospital Discharge Survey: Annual
Summary, 1994 (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health
Service, National Center for Health Statistics). Department of Health and Human
Services, Publication Number PHS 96-1521. December 1995. Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention.
4. CDC. 1996. Asthma Mortality and Hospitalization Among Children and Young
Adults, 1980-1993. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. Volume 45, Number
17, Pages 350-353. May 3.
5. Weiss, K.B., P.J. Gergen, and T.A. Hodgson. 1992. An Economic Evaluation of
Asthma in the U.S. New England Journal of Medicine. Volume 326, Pages 862-866.
March 26.
6. NCI. 1997. SEER Cancer Statistics Review, 1973-1994. U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services. National Cancer Institute. NIH Publication Number 97-
2789, page 457.
7. Devesa, S.S.,W.J. Blot,B.A. Miller, R.E. Tarove, and J.F. Fraumeni,Jr. 1995.
Recent Cancer Trends in the United States. Journal: National Cancer Institute.
Volume 87, Pages 175-182.
8. NRC. 1993. Pesticides in the Diets of Infants and Children. National Research
Council. Washington, DC: National Academy Press.
9. ILSI. 1992. Similarities and Differences between Children and Adults: Implications
for Risk Assessment. International Life Sciences Institute, Washington, DC: ILSI Press.
10. FR. 1997. National Ambient Air Quality Standards for Particulate Matter, Final Rule.
Federal Register 62(138), Pages 38651-38701, July 8.
11. FR. 1997. National Ambient Air Quality Standards for Ozone, Final Rule. Federal
Register 62(138), Pages 38856-38896, July 8.
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ASTHMA ANC] OT^ER
RESpiRATORy EFFECTS
* ~
Asthma is a narrowing of the airways in the lung that produces difficulty in breathing.
Asthma attacks are commonly set off by "triggers" in children who have a genetic or
acquired predisposition to the disease. Several major triggers are household dust mites
(microscopic insects that live on dust), certain foods, lung and upper airway irritants (such
as cigarette smoke, smog, soot, and pollen), strong fumes, respiratory infections, cold or
windy weather conditions, and, occasionally, emotions or exercise that cause deep or
rapid breathing.( 1) The triggers may set off a chain of reactions leading to a narrowing of
the airways in the lung and inflammation of mucus membranes. These reactions, in turn,
cause coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and increased risk of
respiratory infections. Asthmatic episodes may last for hours or several days, and se-
verely restrict the ability of a child to live a normal life.
Childhood Asthma Facts
* An estimated 4.8 million children under 18 years of age have asthma and many more have hidden, or undiag-
nosed, asthma.(2,3)
* Asthma is the leading chronic illness in children of the United States and the leading cause of school absenteeism
due to chronic illness.(4)
* Six hundred children die each year from asthma, and 150,000 are hospitalized.(5)
* From 1980 to 1993, the death rate for childhood asthma in the United States increased by 78 percent.(5)
* Asthma treatment cost an estimated $6.2 billion in 1990.(6)
* Asthma-related hospitalizations have risen disproportionately for inner-city children, and in particular for minority
populations.(7,8)
Childhood asthma is a disorder with genetic predispositions and a strong allergic compo-
nent. Approximately 75 to 80 percent of children with asthma have significant aller-
gies.(1) Allergens, such as household dust mites, tobacco, pet dander, insects, molds, and
pollen, are substances that may trigger allergic reactions and subsequent asthma attacks.
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ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
Poor indoor and outdoor air quality have been linked with asthma symptoms as well as
with other respiratory problems, such as an increased frequency of respiratory infections,
bronchitis, and pneumonia in children. (8)
AiR PolluTAINTS
People in industrialized nations spend 90 percent of their time indoors.(9) The home,
school, and daycare center where children spend most of their time are the locations of
highest concern for exposure to indoor air pollutants. A recent series of Government
Accounting Office (GAO) reports found that both new and old primary and secondary
school buildings need rehabilitation. Older buildings often contain materials with hazardous
substances, such as asbestos and lead. Newer buildings and furnishings may contain
formaldehyde and strong fumes. Several of the most common indoor air pollutants in
homes, schools, and daycare centers are described below.
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (Secondhand Smoke)
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) National Center for Environmental
Health reports that 43 percent of children, two months through 1 1 years of age, live in a home
with at least one smoker. (10) Children who live with smokers involuntarily inhale many pollut-
ants in smoke. Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), also known as secondhand smoke, is a
complex mixture of more than 4,000 chemicals, including carbon monoxide, nicotine, tars,
formaldehyde, and hydrogen cyanide.(l 1) Several of these chemicals are known human
carcinogens or respiratory irritants.( 1 2)
Children exposed to ETS tend to have more bronchitis, pneumonia, respiratory infections, otitis
media (fluid in the middle ear), and asthma symptoms.( 1 3) The frequency of infection depends
directly on the amount of smoke in the home. Children who live with two smoking parents have
more respiratory infections than children who live with one smoking parent. The lowest rates of
respiratory infections and asthma are found in children of parents who do not smoke at all.
Maternal smoking during pregnancy is associated with an increased incidence of Sudden Infant
Death Syndrome.(13,14,15)
EPA estimates that between 150,000 and 300,000 cases of lung infections, such as bronchitis
and pneumonia, that occur annually in infants and young children up to 1 8 months of age may
be attributed to exposure to ETS. Of these, 7,500 to 15,000 will result inhospitalization.(13)
ETS exposure aggravates the condition of between 200,000 and 1 ,000,000 asthmatic chil-
dren. (14) EPA has found that ETS increases fluid in the middle ear, a sign of chronic middle ear
disease, the most common cause ofhospitalization for surgery in children.(l 3)
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The CDC estimates that children exposed to tobacco smoke in their homes have 18 million
more days of restricted activity, 10 million more days ofbed confinement, and miss 7 million
more school days annually than other children, primarily due to acute and chronic respiratory
conditions.(16)
Allergens
Allergens, especially those containing biological matter, such as house dust mites, cockroaches,
pet dander, pollen, molds, spores, bacteria, and viruses, are known to cause or aggravate
asthma.(l) Allergic reactions often combine with and seriously aggravate the symptoms of
asthma, the common cold, pneumonia, and other conditions. Allergens also may cause eye,
nose and throat irritation, shortness ofbreath, dizziness, lethargy, and fever.
Volatile Organic Compounds
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that can volatilize (evaporate) from
substances, such as cleaning products, adhesives, paints, dry-cleaning fluids, and wood
preservatives.(17) VOCs can be emitted from these products into the air and may be
trapped indoors, especially in tightly sealed buildings. An EPA study of six communities in
various parts of the United States found that indoor levels of VOCs are up to ten times
higher than outdoor levels. Symptoms of VOC exposure may include eye, nose and lung
irritation, rash, headache, nausea, vomiting, and asthma. Exposure to some VOCs, such
as benzene and vinyl chloride, may cause cancer.
Formaldehyde, a common VOC, is a colorless, strong-smelling gas used in pressed wood
(particle board, fiberboard, and plywood), paints, coatings, cosmetics, fabrics, and insula-
tion materials.(l 8) Formaldehyde is released into the air from these products as well as
from burning wood, kerosene, or natural gas, and from automobiles and cigarettes. Formal-
dehyde causes cancer in laboratory animals and is considered by EPA to be a probable
human carcinogen. Although formaldehyde affects people differently, it may irritate the eyes,
nasal sinuses, throat, and lungs, and may trigger asthma. Children and adults have devel-
oped allergic reactions, including hives, from exposure to the gas.
Nitrogen Oxides
Nitrogen oxides are more often thought of as outdoor air pollutants emitted by motor
vehicles and fossil-fuel burning power plants, but they also are found indoors. Inadequately
vented gas ranges, gas pilot lights, gas or kerosene heaters, and welding activities, as well as
tobacco smoke, contribute to nitrogen oxides in indoor air. Because they are potent respira-
tory irritants, they may aggravate asthma and other respiratory diseases.(19)
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Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas produced from the incomplete burning of
virtually any combustible product. It may accumulate indoors as a result of tobacco smoking,
poorly ventilated appliances, and attached garages.
Carbon monoxide enters the blood from the lungs and combines with hemoglobin, blocking
the blood's ability to carry oxygen to body cells. Symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure
may mimic influenza and include fatigue, headache, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, mental
confusion, and rapid heart rate. Depending on the level of exposure, carbon monoxide can
be immediately fatal. Long-term, low-level exposures to carbon monoxide by pregnant
women have the potential to injure the developing fetus.(20)
OuidoOR AiR PolluTAINTS
Urban air pollution appears to be a contributor to current increases in asthma incidence. In
1995, thirty-three percent of the U.S. population lived in counties that did not meet EPA air
quality standards for ozone (the principal component of smog), carbon monoxide, nitrogen
dioxide (one of the nitrogen oxides), sulfur dioxide, particulate matter (soot), andlead.(21)
Although any of the outdoor air pollutants may play a role in increased asthma attacks,
ozone is the pollutant consistently associated with aggravating the disease. High ozone
levels also are associated with a reduction in lung function in children without asthma.(22)
The American Lung Association determined that children with asthma are 40 percent more
likely to suffer asthma attacks on high-pollution days compared to days with average
pollution levels.
A recent study linked exposure to particulate matter with an increased risk of death to
newborns from respiratory problems and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.(23)
Children are especially vulnerable to the effects of ozone and particulate matter.(24,25)
Except for the very young, children typically spend more time outdoors than do adults,
especially in the summer when ozone and particulate levels are the highest. Children also
spend more time engaged in vigorous activity, which results in more outside air being taken
into their lungs. Their activity, combined with the higher breathing rate of children relative
to their body weight and lung surface area, results in a greater dose of pollutant delivered
to their lungs. Air pollution that would produce only slight breathing difficulties in an adult
may contribute to a more serious breathing problem in a young child because children have
smaller airways.
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SUMMARY of EPA AcrivmEs
iNq hdooR A!R QuAliiy (IAO)
EPA has joined with numerous nonprofit organizations, states, and educational systems to
develop indoor air quality programs that offer workshops, distribute educational materials,
and conduct media campaigns, home audits, and school inspections. EPA has developed
an easy-to-use guide called the Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Tools for Schools Action Kit.
The kit empowers schools to carry out a practical plan of action to prevent and resolve
indoor air quality problems at little or no cost using simple activities and in-house staff.
Extensive efforts are underway by EPA regional offices to distribute thelAQ Tools for
Schools materials and assist schools in implementing an IAQ program.
Many national advocacy organizations are promoting the kit as an easy and effective
program for minimizing adverse health effects. With more than 20,000 kits distributed
nationwide since 1 996 to kindergarten through high schools, strong support for the
program has been voiced by state departments of education and health. Several state
legislatures are using the kit as a guide to develop indoor air quality standards in schools.
To determine whetherlAQ Tools for Schools is improving air quality, EPA is measuring
changes in symptoms, staff perceptions of the quality of indoor air, reductions in pollutant
levels, and improvements in ventilation system performance. Participating schools un-
dergo before-and-after testing over a one-year period. Throughout the year, EPA
monitors the progress of specific activities, as well as their costs.
EPA also is working with the American Lung Association to implement the Open Airways
program among high-risk, inner-city minority children who have higher-than-average
asthma death rates. The Open Airways curriculum teaches children to manage their own
symptoms and has been completed by over 22,000 children. This year, Open Airways
training will be combined with thelAQ Tools for Schools program. Training will result in
an additional 25,000 children graduating from the Open Airways program and 1 ,500
schools implementing thelAQ Tools for Schools guidance.
EPA is collaborating with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to educate
the public about the dangers of ETS and has embarked on a national public education
campaign designed to reduce children's exposure to ETS. EPA has enlisted the help of
daycare operators and pediatricians in educating parents about the dangers of ETS in the
home. They also are teaching parents about techniques for avoiding exposure to sub-
stances that may trigger asthma and other respiratory illnesses.
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Although much is known about typical childhood activity patterns, less is known about the
physical characteristics of children's lungs that make them more susceptible to the effects
of airborne pollutants. EPA is conducting various studies to improve the understanding of
this relationship.
livipROviNq OuidooR A!R QuAliiy
EPA's efforts to control outdoor air pollution are focused on protecting everyone, including
children, from the harmful effects of ozone, particulate matter, and toxic substances. The
Agency develops standards that set safe limits for the most prevalent air pollutants, and
works with the states to implement those standards. In July 1997, the Clinton Administra-
tion strengthened the ozone standard from 120 parts per billion (ppb) averaged over one
hour to 80 ppb averaged over eight hours. This new limit was proposed to respond to
scientific evidence that previous standards, established 20 years ago, do not adequately
protect sensitive populations such as asthmatics and children, from the effects of ozone.
These new regulations also established standards for fine airborne particles for the first
time. EPA estimates that the new standards will save at least 15,000 lives per year and
protect an additional 35 million children.
EPA's regional offices have begun various outreach efforts to emphasize the increased
susceptibility of children to certain air pollutants—particularly ground-level ozone. These
efforts include daily Internet postings on predicted air quality ratings, health effects fact sheets
(available in several languages), and media campaigns. The air in schools in industrial areas is
being monitored to further identify and measure air contaminants.
EPA is measuring the impact of outdoor air pollutants on the physical development of
children. For example, the Agency is investigating the effects of inhaling ground-level
ozone, fine particulate matter, and other air pollutants over a long time. Other research
efforts include examining the effects of air emissions from fossil fuel combustion and
residential wood-burning, and identifying effects of air toxics on pregnancy.
EPA PROJECTS ON ASTHMA ANC! OT^ER REspiRATORy EffEcrs
hdooR A!R QuAliiy (IAQ) Tools FOR Schools
Title: Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools
Description: EPA has developed/^ £> Tools for Schools, an easy-to-use guidance
intended to empower schools to prevent and resolve IAQ problems at little
or no cost using simple activities and in-house staff. More than 20,OOOIAQ
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Tools for Schools kits have been distributed nationwide since 1996. The
program is directed from EPA headquarters through agreements with a
number of associations, such as the National PTA, American Association
of School Administrators, and National Education Association. EPA's
regional offices have active implementation programs as well.
Partners: National PTA, National Education Association, Association of School
Business Officials, Council for American Private Education, American
Federation of Teachers, and American Lung Association
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, John Guevin, 202-564-9055
Title: American Association of School Administrators
Description: EPA is working cooperatively with the American Association of School
Administrators (AAS A) to enable schools to prevent and resolve IAQ
problems using thelAQ Tools for Schools Action Kit. This proj ect
includes training courses, IAQ sessions during workshops and conferences,
and articles in newsletters to educate administrators about IAQ problems
and solutions, as well as how to implement an IAQ program using in-house
school staff. AAS A will conduct periodic surveys during the project to
assess the administrators' understanding of IAQ and problem resolution.
Partners: American Association of School Administrators
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Susan Dolgin, 202-564-9048
Title: National Education Association
Description: The National Education Association Health Information Network (NBA
HIN) and EPA are supporting NEA's 2.2 million members in improving
the management of IAQ in schools and homes. Under NEA's training
program, 51NEA members and 16 union liaisons were trained in school
IAQ management. Trainees and workshop participants are currently
working with 38 school districts and 32 schools to implement EPA's IAQ
Tools for Schools.
Partners: National Education Association
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Matt Hiester, 202-564-9459
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TMe: National Parent Teachers Association
Description: The National Parent Teachers Association (NPTA) and EPA are working
cooperatively to support the participation of over 6.5 million PTA mem-
bers in the environmental management of homes, schools, communities,
and ecosystems. Sixteen state PTA leaders were trained on school indoor
air quality, air pollution, water pollution, drinking water quality, hazardous
materials, emergency planning, radon exposure, pesticides, solid waste,
and lead poisoning. These trainees have secured commitments from 71
other PTA members to encourage their school district to implement EPA's
IAQ Tools for Schools Action Kits in addition to other efforts. An
additional 36 state PTA leaders received comprehensive environmental
training in August 1997.
Partners: National Parent Teachers Association
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Tracy Washington-Enger, 202-564-9484
Title: Regional IAQ Tools for Schools Programs
Region 1: The Region has distributed//^ Tools for Schools to more than 1,000
schools. Contact Mary Beth Smuts, 617-565-3232.
Region 2: Working with the Environmental Sciences Training Center at Rutgers
University, Region 2 is training school personnel, including nurses. Re-
gional staff have developed a mentoring program for schools planning to
implement the kit, and will accompany school personnel in building inspec-
tions. Contact Rachel Chaput, 212-63 7-4001.
Region 3: Region 3 is training maintenance workers in the Baltimore public schools.
Participating schools will evaluate the effectiveness of the program. Con-
tact Reggie Harris, 215-566-2988.
Region 4: Together with the University of Tulsa, Region 4 presented five workshops
attended by approximately 250 school officials, and distributed 1,400 kits.
Contact Henry Slack, 404-562-9143.
Region 5: A series of workshops have been held through grants to states and non-
profit organizations, and regional staff developed a mentoring program for
schools planning to implement the kit. Contact Phyllis Reed,
312-886-6018.
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Region 6: Approximately 300 school administrators, physical plant staff, school
nurses, and public health officials from 103 school districts participated in
seven one-day workshops. Contact Joyce Stanton, 214-665-8377.
Region 7: Workshops have been held throughout Region 7 to demonstrate the
benefit of healthy indoor air in the school environment. Contact Tom
Hogan, 913-551-7684.
Region 8: The Region conducted a pilot program with North Dakota and S outh
Dakota to provide workshops. In Montana, 357 schools are implement-
ing the program. Contact Kathleen Craig, 303-312-6031.
Region 9: Region 9 is providing outreach material and workshops, and is developing
a pilot demonstration project in Alameda County, California, in coopera-
tion with county health officials, school administrators, and health profes-
sionals. Contact Barbara Spark, 415-744-1132.
Title: Urban Schools Initiative
Description: The Urban Schools Initiative demonstrates how significant IAQ problems
in an urban school can be cleaned up to reduce health risks and improve
the learning environment for children. Planned structural improvements at
a school in Washington, DC, include removal and replacement of moldy
walls and ceilings, ventilation system repairs and upgrades, abatement of
lead-based paints, repair of steam system and plumbing leaks, and
replacement of moisture-damaged windows. Changes resulting from IAQ
improvements will be measured at the beginning and end of the project.
Training of all DC school facilities managers on EPA?sIAQ Tools for
Schools is an integral part of the initiative.
Partners: Washington, DC public school system
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Bob Thompson, 202-564-9056
Title: School Intervention Study
Description: The School Intervention Study will provide a measure of the effectiveness of
EPAtsIAQ Tools for Schools guidance in improving the management of
school buildings for better IAQ. Success measures include problem
prevention activities, changes in staff symptoms and perceptions of indoor
air quality, pollutantreduction, and ventilation systemimprovements.
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Before-and-after testing is being conducted in several schools and costs will
be monitored over a one-year period.
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Brian Ligman, 202-564-9432
Title: American Lung Association Open Airways
Description: The American Lung Association is promoting EPA's IAQ Tools for
Schools along with their Open Airways curriculum, which teaches asth-
matic elementary school children to manage their own asthma. The
program emphasizes inner-city children with higher than average death
rates. The American Lung Association is developing an integrated training
program in which 15 master trainers will train 250 other trainers who will
then train 5,000 local volunteers. Project directors estimate that this
combined program will result in 25,000 children graduating from Open
Airways and 1,500 schools fully implementing the IAQ Tools for Schools
guidance. The program has enhanced asthma management skills of
children and their parents, reducing the frequency of asthma attacks.
Several regions are translating Open Airways into Spanish. Additionally,
local American Lung Associations purchased over 5,000 EPAIAQ Tools
for Schools kits last year to promote in schools.
Partners: American Lung Association, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Denise Settles, 202-564-9704; Office of
Enforcement and Compliance Assurance, Marty Halper, 202-564-2601
Title: Training School Nurses in Open Airways andlAQ Tools for Schools
Description: EPA, along with the New York State American Lung Association
(ALANYS), has taken advantage of the need for school nursing recertifica-
tion by incorporating training in Open Airways andlAQ Tools for Schools
into the recertification requirements. School nurses are trained and then
encouraged to conduct training in these two programs within their own
schools. Over 75 percent of the school nurses in New York State, outside
of New York City (1,526), have been trained. Nearly 180 nurses requested
the Open Airways kit and more than 70 school nurses have completed at
least partial implementation of the program within their schools.
Partners: New York State American Lung Association
Contact: Region2, Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001
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ElNViRONMEINTAl TobACCO SlVlokE (SECONdllANd
Title: ETS Media Campaign
Description: EPA, the Consumer Research Council, and the American Medical Associa-
tion are working together to develop, disseminate, and promote a public
communications campaign designed to reduce children's exposure to ETS.
Partners: Consumer Research Council and the American Medical Association
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Bill Long, 202-564-9733
Title: Reducing Exposure to ETS through Child Care Outreach
Description: EPA is implementing training developed by the Pennsylvania Chapter of
the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP-PA) in at least five state
systems this year. The program trains daycare center operators on the
risks to children from exposure to ETS at home. The AAP-PA has
provided professional credits to 160 providers who passed an exam and
implemented the program, resulting in an estimated 1,920 families who
have reduced their children's risk from ETS.
Partners: American Academy of Pediatrics Pennsylvania Chapter and National
Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Bill Long, 202-564-9733
Title: Community-Based Pediatrician Outreach
Description: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is collaborating with EPA to
develop and promote the use of public information materials on the risks
of ETS and other indoor air pollutants. A speaker's kit for pediatricians
to use in community-based risk reduction efforts is being developed. The
kit is designed to communicate the health risks to children from involun-
tary exposure to ETS. The program's goal is to have 150 pediatricians
participate in community-based risk reduction projects using these
materials.
Partners: American Academy of Pediatrics
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Bill Long, 202-564-9733
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TMe:
Region 1 :
Region 2 :
Region 4:
Region 7:
Indoor Air Environment Program for Children
With the American Lung Association and the Asthma and Allergy Founda-
tion, Region 1 is developing home-audit checklists on asthma and carbon
monoxide dangers and prevention. They also have developed and imple-
mented the Program on Asthma and Clean Air for Day care Providers.
Five workshops have been held, reaching 125 daycare operations. Con-
tact Mary Beth Smuts, 6 1 7-565-3232.
With the American Lung Association, Region 2 is implementing the Child
Care Outreach project in New York State. The project reaches house-
holds with children under six through daycare centers to reduce the
number of households in which children are regularly exposed to tobacco
smoke. Contact Larainne Koehler, 212-637- 4005.
An outreach program for parents of young children and other care givers
in Region 4 will reduce ETS exposure of 500,000 children in two states.
Materials will be distributed to daycare centers, new parents, preschools,
radio stations, and other forums. Contact Henry Slack, 404-562-9 1 43 .
In cooperation with the American Lung Association of Kansas and the
Kansas Department of Health and Environment, the Region will implement
the Child Care Outreach project and provide 10,400 child care centers
with educational materials about the hazards of ETS . Contact Tom
Hogan, 9 13-55 1-7684.
In cooperation with the American Lung Association, Region 8 is imple-
menting the Child Care Outreach project and has developed a required
training program on indoor air quality and ETS for daycare center provid-
ers applying for state certification. Contact Lon Hesla, 303-312-6024.
Region 9 is working with the American Lung Association to promote use
of the Child Care Outreach and Secondhand Smoke Education Projects
by daycare providers . Contact Louise Hill, 415-744-1046.
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organization, is reaching out to the community in several inner-city areas
within New York City. Through an interactive dialog between the scien-
tists and community, environmental issues of concern will be identified.
Environmental testing and monitoring will be done where necessary to
accumulate relevant exposure data.
Partners: Columbia University School of Public Health and West Harlem
Environmental Action Group
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-63 7-4001
Title: "Breathe Easier" Support
Description: Working with the Dimmock Community Health Center in Dorchester,
MA, EPA has supported the establishment of an asthma educational
outreach initiative, Breathe Easier. Conducted by community health
activists and teen leaders, the project is directed toward children with
asthma in four public housing units. Educational tools developed through
this program include a video and an information packet on asthma. These
materials address what to do during an asthma attack, how to properly
take medication, and how to identify asthma triggers.
Partners: Dimmock Community Health Center
Contact: Region 1, Lois Adams, 617-565-3487
Title: AmeriCorps Outreach on Asthma
Description: EPA Region 1 is training AmeriCorps workers to provide asthma and
carbon monoxide home inspections for inner-city families. Forty
AmeriCorps volunteers will conduct the inspections for families with
young children and provide them with "asthma control bedding" and
carbon monoxide detectors as needed. AmeriCorps staff also provide
environmental education to fourth- and fifth-grade classrooms and to
after-school students.
Partners: AmeriCorps and County Occupational Safety and Health Departments
Contact: Region 1, Mary Beth Smuts, 617-565-3232
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TMe: "Home Cleaning for Asthma Attack Control" Program
Description: EPA Region 7 is working with the American Lung Association of Eastern
Missouri (ALAEM) to implement the "Home Cleaning for Asthma Attack
Control" program. ALAEM is developing a workbook showing
step-by-step actions to remove the precursors, or triggers, that commonly
cause asthma attacks. The workbook will be oriented to low-income
apartment dwellers and home owners with school-age children. ALAEM
also plans to develop a video that will follow the outline of the workbook,
demonstrating and further explaining its recommendations.
Partners: American Lung Association of Eastern Missouri
Contact: Region?, TomHogan, 913-551-7684
Title: Asthma Outreach and Education in the Bronx
Description: The New York City Chapter of the American Lung Association
(ALANY) is under a grant to provide asthma outreach and education at
eight of the nine hospitals in the Bronx, NY This program includes the
education of asthmatic children and their caretakers in this high-asthma
area. ALANY has given several training sessions to child care providers,
such as Head Start workers, and has distributed limited asthma manage-
ment equipment within a public school.
Partners: New York City Chapter of the American Lung Association
Contact: Region2, Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001
Title: Cockroach Movement and Allergen Distribution in Inner-City Apartments
Description: This research will provide information on where cockroaches are most
often found in apartment buildings, what factors are related to their move-
ment patterns, and how cockroach-related allergens (strongly associated
with provoking asthma) are distributed throughout buildings based on
movement of the insects. Patterns of cockroach movement have been
investigated in some settings, but not in inner-city apartment buildings,
where asthma prevalence in children is high.
Partners: Columbia University
Contact: Region2, Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001
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Title: Asthma Conference in New York City
Description: EPA Region 2 is co-funding an asthma conference at the New York
Academy of Medicine in New York City on May 4-5,1998, with the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The conference will address
asthma issues in the inner-city and explore ways to improve communica-
tions among the communities needing assistance and the scientific and
health-care communities.
Partners: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for Urban Epidemio-
logical Studies at the New York Academy of Medicine
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-63 7-4001
Title: Puerto Rico Department of Health Asthma Projects
Description: Asthma is a serious issue in Puerto Rico, based on a series of epidemio-
logical studies. Region 2 is supporting an Asthma Coordinator at the
Puerto Rico Department of Health and will fund an environmental allergen
study in Catano, Puerto Rico, in cooperation with the University of Ponce
Medical School. Measurements of the standard environmental allergens
(dust mite, cockroach, cat) will be made in the homes of asthmatic
children along with measurements of heavy metals and other substances of
interest, such as bacterial endotoxin thought to be a lung irritant. The
measurements will be conducted in 150 houses and will be complemented
by an indoor air quality survey in the homes, and allergenic skin testing for
the asthmatic children. This project will provide information on the levels
of known allergens and irritants in homes in Catano and will possibly
show associations with the asthmatic children's asthmatic profiles.
Partners: Puerto Rico Department of Health, University of Ponce Medical School
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-63 7-4001
Title: Environmental Interventions for Asthma
Description: Many indoor environmental substances, particularly allergens, may
prompt asthma attacks. The prevalence of asthma is particularly high in
inner-city children. EPA and the Einstein College of Medicine will conduct
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a study to examine ways to reduce dust mites, cockroaches, rodents,
environmental tobacco smoke, molds, and pet dander in the inner city.
Partners: Einstein College of Medicine
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 2 12-637-400 1
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Title: Asthma Assessment
Description: The National Academy of Science is collecting and analyzing available
literature to determine the specific effects of indoor pollutants on asthma
illnesses and death. The study will include both a general evaluation of
asthma and indoor air quality and an analysis of the effects of individual
indoor air pollutants on asthma, with special consideration for children.
The project will determine the best methods to reduce exposures to indoor
air pollutants that can cause or trigger asthma episodes. EPA will use the
information to improve public outreach, including teaching children, par-
ents, and school administrators about the benefits of reducing exposures to
asthma triggers in homes and schools.
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Tracey Mitchell, 202-564-9446
Title: Allergens in the Development of Asthma in Children (Studied in
Immature Rats)
Description: Allergic asthma most often develops in young children. Children may
become more easily sensitized to common allergens because of differences
in their immune response compared to adults. Researchers will use an
established model of pulmonary allergy to house dust mites in rats to
examine whether newborn rats become more readily sensitized to antigens
(leading to an allergic response) compared to juvenile and adult animals.
Further studies will investigate whether pre-exposure to viruses, air pollut-
ants, and pesticides influence susceptibility to allergic lung disease.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Hillel Koren, 9 1 9-966-6200
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Title: Environmental Influences on Asthma in Children
Description: A population of wheezing children was recruited from a pediatric practice
in Raleigh, NC. The clinical and allergic status of these children was
documented and compared with children without asthma symptoms.
Concentrations of various allergens were measured in the children's
homes. Analysis of the data is underway.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Hillel Koren, 919-966-6200
OuidooR A!R QuAliiy
Title: New National Ambient Air Quality Standards for Ozone and Fine Particles
Description: EPA's new ozone standards respond to scientific evidence that the previous
standards were not adequate to protect the health of certain sensitive
populations (such as asthmatics) and healthy individuals (including children)
from the effects of ozone and fine particulates. Selected research reviewed
for the proposed standard included studies of children in summer camps.
The fine particles standard responds to evidence that particles 2.5 microns
or less in size are a significant health threat to adults and children, with
studies showing more frequent and serious attacks of asthma in children.
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Sally Shaver, 919-541 -5551
Title: Ozone Outreach Proj ect
Description: EPA Region 1 undertook a comprehensive ground-level ozone outreach
project, advising stakeholders and the public on air quality in the region.
Activities stress the increased susceptibility of children to certain pollut-
ants, particularly ground-level ozone. Outreach includes daily postings on
the Internet of a color map detailing the predicted air quality rating for the
following day for Region 1 areas (http://www.epa.gov.regionOl/eco/
ozone), fact sheets and brochures on ozone and health effects, a confer-
ence on Clean Air and Public Health in July, television and radio mes-
sages, and press releases on days with unhealthy air.
Contact: Region 1, David Conroy, 617-565-3255
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TMe: Enforcement Program for Hazardous Air Pollutant Emissions
Description: Facility inspection, compliance, and enforcement efforts are targeted at
sources emitting hazardous air pollutants, particularly in populated areas.
These facilities may contribute to increased incidences of childhood
cancer. EPA is developing air toxics standards on which the associated
regulations can be enforced, and that will provide for adequate monitor-
ing, record keeping, and reporting requirements.
Contact: Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance, Charlie Garlow,
202-564-1088
Title: Asthma Outreach Initiative
Description: EPA Region 5 developed an Asthma Initiative to alert people with asthma,
parents of children with asthma, and the elderly to the health hazards of
ground-level ozone and its importance as an asthma trigger. The initiative
also seeks to reduce asthma attacks during the ozone season. EPA
published and distributed 150,000 brochures (Ozone Action Days: A
Special Alert for People with Asthma and Other Respiratory Problems) to
schools, doctors, hospitals, libraries, and pharmacies. Approximately
400,000 copies will be distributed in expanded areas. The Region also
developed a Spanish-language brochure to be distributed in Hispanic
communities and is developing an Arabic version.
Partners: Local schools and public health community
Contact: Region 5, Cheryl Newton, 312-353-6730
Title: Air Sampling Project, Winton Hills, Ohio
Description: Using a network of air monitors, EPA is conducting an air toxics study to
identify and quantify ambient air contaminants in the Winton Place and
Winton Hills communities of Cincinnati, Ohio. This study, which was
developed with the assistance of community and industry representatives,
will expand on the air toxics monitoring network currently maintained by
the Hamilton County Department of Environmental Services. All of the
monitoring sites will be in the Winton communities, which are close to
heavy industry. Three sites involve Cincinnati public schools. Data
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collected from the study will provide detailed air quality information for
these communities and will be used to investigate reductions in community
exposure, including enforcement if appropriate.
Hamilton County, Ohio
Region 5, Brian Barwick, 312-353-6730
Partners:
Contact:
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Title: Total and Regional (Area) Deposition of Inhaled Particles in Children
Description: EPA is determining whether children (ages 6-18) can accumulate more
fine particles (soot) in their lungs than adults. The study also will deter-
mine the extent to which age-related differences in lung size, function, and
breathing patterns can influence the amount of soot that accumulates in the
lungs of children and adults. Additional studies will include the accumula-
tion of coarse particles in children (ages 5-18) as compared to adults.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Hillel Koren, 919-966-6200
Title: Contributions of Oral versus Nasal Breathing to Fine Particle Deposition
in Children
Description: Studies will determine whether breathing through the mouth versus
through the nose influences the amount of fine particles (soot) that accu-
mulates in the lungs of children and adults. In conjunction with these
measurements, an assessment of the relative contributions of mouth versus
nasal breathing at rest and during exercise in children will be made for
comparison with adults.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Hillel Koren, 919-966-6200
Title: Deposition of Air Pollutants in the Developing Human Lung
Description: EPA is developing a mathematical model to predict the amount of fine
particulate matter (soot) that will accumulate in the developing human
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lung. The model will account for humidity, temperature, age, and breathing
rate as well as the relative distributions of particles in various lung areas.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Ted Martonen, 919-541 -7875
Title: Childhood Susceptibility to Air Pollutants: Harvard-Mexico Studies
Description: EPA is studying the effects of short-term exposures to particulate matter
and ozone on disease and death in residents of Mexico City. Measure-
ments include daily assessments of preschool and school-age children for
symptoms of acute respiratory illness, and peak flow (a measure of lung
capacity) in school age children. Records of emergency room use in acute
care hospitals and daily death records are being collected. Acute respira-
tory illness, peak flow, emergency room visits, and death are being exam-
ined for any relationship with daily particulate matter or ozone exposure.
Partners: Brigham Young University and Women's Hospital
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Bill McDonnell, 919-966-6220
Title: Lung Growth Study
Description: EPA researchers are determining the effects of long-term exposure to
ozone, fine particulate matter, and other pollutants on lung growth and the
development of chronic respiratory illness in children in 12 southern
California communities. Baseline lung function and symptom data will be
compared with air monitoring information.
Partners: University of Southern California
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Bill McDonnell, 919-966-6220
Title: Acute Respiratory Illness Study
Description: The relationship between acute respiratory illness in school-age children and
short-term exposure to particulate matter and ozone is being studied as part of
the Lung Growth Study. School absences due to illness will be followed up
with a telephone interview with parents, and the relationship between illnesses
and short-term particulate matter and ozone exposure will be examined.
Partners: University of Southern California
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Bill McDonnell, 919-966-6220
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Air Toxics and Pregnancy Outcome
This study will compare data from the Aerometric Information Retrieval
System (AIRS) database (which contains indices of ambient air pollution)
and vital statistics data, such as low birth weight, neonatal death, and fetal
death. EPA is currently examining data from the cities of Chicago, Denver,
and Los Angeles.
Office of Research and Development, Bill McDonnell, 919-966-6220
Childhood Susceptibility to Air Pollutants
A collaborative study is underway to determine whether children are more
susceptible than adults to nasal metaplasia (cancerous changes in cells),
and whether biochemical tests can detect the morphological (form and
structure) alterations caused by high ambient ozone and fine particulate
matter in Mexico City.
Office of Research and Development, Gary Hatch, 919-541-2658
Association between Ambient Ozone Concentration and Respiratory
Symptoms and Effects in German and Austrian School Children
This series of studies is designed to identify associations between levels of
ambient ozone and upper respiratory effects. Ambient concentrations of
ozone are monitored continuously from May to October. When a high or
low ozone episode is detected, nasal samples and respiratory symptoms
are measured in school children (ages 6 to 8). Preliminary results suggest
a correlation between inflammation in the nasal cells and ambient levels of
ozone.
Office of Research and Development, Robert Devlin, 919-966-6255
Delivered Dose to Lungs in Infant versus Adult Rats
This study deals with a comparison of the amount of ozone delivered to
the lungs of infant versus adult rats as measured by radiolabeled isotopes
ofoxygen.
Office of Research and Development, Gary Hatch, 919-541-2658
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TMe: Effects of Oxidants on Pulmonary Damage in the Very Young
Description: This proj ect will confirm preliminary evidence that young rats are more
sensitive to inhaled oxidant pollutants, such as ozone, than adult rats, as
shown by increased lung injury and inflammation. The study also will
examine the mechanisms underlying the increased sensitivity of young
animals to ozone and other pollutants.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Robert Devlin, 919-966-6255
Title: Characterization of Emissions from Home Wood Combustion
Description: An obj ective of this study is to relate the possible health effects of wood
combustion to sensitive subpopulations, such as children. This project will
be completed through the use of field studies and laboratory measurements.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Robert McCrillis, 919-541 -2733
Title: Link between Death Rates in Infants and Exposure to Particulate Air
Pollution
Description: EPA recently conducted a review to determine whether death in infants is
linked with exposure to particulate matter (soot). Death records from the
National Center for Health Statistics were combined with particulate
matter levels from EPA's AIRS database. Among normal birth weight
infants, high particulate matter exposure was associated with an increased
incidence of death due to respiratory problems and Sudden Infant Death
Syndrome (SIDS).
Contact: Office of Policy, Tracey Woodruff, 202-260-6669
Title: An X-Linked Genetic Susceptibility for SIDS and Respiratory Failures in
Infancy
Description: A World Health Organization/EPA epidemiological study has shown that
there may be a genetic cause for SIDS and other respiratory failures in
infancy. The presence of a dominant allele occurring with a frequency of
one-third on the chromosome explains the 61.2 percent male and 38.8
percent female sex distribution in these diseases and points to a defect in
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Contact:
anaerobic oxidation in the respiratory control centers of the brain stem as
the proximal cause of SIDS and infant respiratory death.
Office of Research and Development, David Mage, 919-541 -1327
ULUlU
uuuuu
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REfERENCES
1. ALA. 1997. When You Can't Breathe, Nothing Else Matters. American Lung
Association, Washington, DC.
2. CDC. 1995. Vital and Health Statistics, National Hospital Discharge Survey: Annual
Summary, 1993. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Publication
Number PHS 96-1782. August 1995. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
3. CDC. 1995. Vital and Health Statistics, National Hospital Discharge Survey: Annual
Summary, 1994. U.S.Department of Health and Human Services, Publication Number
PHS 96-1521. December 1995. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
4. Halfon,N. andP.W Newacheck. 1993. Childhood Asthma and Poverty: Differential
Impacts and Utilization of Health Services. Pediatrics. Volume 91, Pages 56-61.
5. CDC. 1996. Asthma Mortality and Hospitalization among Children and Young
Adults, 1980-1993. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. Volume 45, Number
17, Pages 350-353. May 3.
6. Weiss, K.B., P.J. Gergen, and T.A. Hodgson. 1992. An Economic Evaluation of
Asthma in the U.S. New England Journal of Medicine. Volume 326, Pages 862-
866. March 26.
7. ALA. 1997. Asthma in Diverse Communities. American Lung Association,
Washington, DC.
8. Bates, D V. 1995. The Effects of Air Pollution on Children. Environmental Health
Perspectives. Volume 103 (Supplement B), Pages 49-53.
9. USEPA. 1989. Report to Congress on Indoor Air Quality Volume II: Assessment
and Control of Indoor Air Pollution. Publication Number EPA 400-1 -89-OOOC.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Pages 1:4-14.
10. CDC. 1996. Exposure to Second-Hand Smoke Widespread. Press Release.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. April.
11. USEPA. 1994. Indoor Air Pollution: An Introduction for Health Professionals. GPO
Number 1994-523-217/81322. American Lung Association, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Consumer Product Safety Commission, and American Medical
Association.
12. NIOSH. 1991. Current Intelligence Bulletin 54Environmental Tobacco Smoke in
the Workplace. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.
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ULUiLj
DDDDC
n
13. USEPA. 1990. Respiratory Health Effects of Passive Smoking: Lung, Cancer, and
Other Disorders. Publication Number EPA 600-6-90-006F. U.S Environmental
Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development.
14. Allard,P. Undated. Environmental Tobacco Smoke. Arizona Comparative Environ-
mental Risk Project. Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, Phoenix, AZ.
15. MacDorman,M.F.,S. Cnattingius,H.J. Hoffman,M.S. Kramer,andB. Haglund.
1997. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and Smoking in the United States and Swe-
den. American Journal of Epidemiology. Volume 146, Number 3, Pages 249-257.
16. Mannino, D.M.,M. Siegel, C. Husten, D. Rose, andR. Etzel. 1996. Environ-
mental Tobacco Smoke Exposure and Health Effects in Children: Results from the
1991 National Health Interview Survey. Tobacco Control. VolumeS,Pages 13-18.
17. USEPA. 1987. Project Summary: The Total Exposure Assessment Methodology
(TEAM) Study. Publication Number EPA 600-S6-87-002. U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Office of Acid Deposition, Environmental Monitoring and Quality
Assurance.
18. USCPSC. 1990. An Update on Formaldehyde. U.S. Consumer Product Safety
Commission.
19. ALA. Undated. Air Pollution In Your Home. American Lung Association,
Washington, DC.
20. ALA. 1997. Fact Sheet: Carbon Monoxide. American Lung Association, New
York, New York. August.
21. USHHS. 1997. Progress Review: Environmental Health. U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services, Public Health Service. March 12.
22. Thurston, G.D. etal. 1997. Summertime Haze Air Pollution and Children with
Asthma. American Journal of Respiratory Critical Care Medicine. Volume 155,
Pages 654-660.
23. Woodruff, T.J.,J. Grillo, and K.C. Schoendorf. 1997. The Relationship between
Selected Causes of Postneonatal Infant Mortality and Particulate Air Pollution in the
United States. Environmental Health Perspectives. Volume 105, Pages 608-612.
24. CDC. 1991. Children at Risk from Ozone Air Pollution in the United States.
Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. Volume 44, Pages 309-312.
25. U.S. EPA. 1997. Criteria Pollutants (Greenbook). National Ambient Air Quality
Standards. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Air and Radiation.
51
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Childhood CANCER
Approximately 8,000 children under the age of15 are diagnosed with cancer each year in
the United States.(l) In 1992, cancer was the fourth leading cause of death for American
children under age 15, exceeded only by deaths from accidents, congenital anomalies
(birth defects), and diseases of infancy.(2,3) The most prevalent forms of the disease in
children are leukemia and brain cancer. (4)
The death rate from childhood cancer in the United States has declined dramatically in
recent years due to improved treatment.(5) However, the overall incidence rate of new
cancers in children has increased as shown in the table below.(6,7) The trends in some
cancer types suggest the need for a closer examination of the underlying factors leading to
disease in children. This includes determining whether environmental contaminants play a
role in causing the disease.
Incidence of Childhood Cancer
19/0
197S
1980
1935 199O
1995
Year
Incidence of cancer in children by calendar year of diagnosis, 1973-1994, United States, SEER
(data from Table 27-3). The correlation coefficient, r, is 0.75
Cancer is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of cells. When a cell becomes
cancerous, it loses its ability to regulate its own growth, control cell division, and interpret
messages from other cells. Each tumor is believed to originate from a single cell gone
awry. The transformation of a normal cell into a cancerous one requires a series of
alterations often involving mutations in DNA, the genetic code. This stepwise series of
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changes usually takes many years to complete, although in young children, the sequence
may be accelerated. In addition to possibly causing childhood cancer, exposure to a
carcinogen as a child may lead to cancer as an adult. Carcinogens are substances that
trigger or accelerate the development of cancer. Cancer may be initiated or accelerated
by radiation and by some toxic chemicals.
PossiblE ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
Exposures to certain carcinogens in the environment may be associated with some human
cancers.(8,9) People can be exposed to carcinogens through many routes, including air,
water, food, drugs, surface contact, and tobacco use. Examples of environmental factors
that may be associated with cancer are:(4,9, 1 0)
• Environmental tobacco smoke (or secondhand smoke)
• Radon
• Asbestos
• Ultraviolet light
• Some hazardous waste
• Some pesticides
Indoor air toxics are addressed more fully in Chapter 2 and pesticides in Chapter 5 of
this report.
ElNViRONMEINTAl TobACCO SlVlokE (SECONdllANd
Infants and children who live in households with smokers involuntarily inhale the toxic
substances in tobacco smoke. Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) is a complex mixture
of more than 4,000 chemicals, such as nicotine, tars, formaldehyde, and hydrogen cya-
nide.(l 1) Some of these contaminants are known human carcinogens.(12) More informa-
tion on children's risks resulting from toxic substances in ETS is presented in Chapter 2
Asthma and Other Respiratory Effects.
Radon, a known human carcinogen, is a naturally occurring, radioactive gas that is color-
less, odorless, and tasteless. It comes from the natural decay of uranium, a radioactive
metal found in soil and rock in the earth's crust all over the United States. Radon travels
through soil and enters the indoor environments of buildings through cracks and other
openings in the foundation. Eventually, radon decays into radioactive particles that can be
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inhaled and then trapped in the lungs. As these particles decay, they release small bursts
of radiation that can damage lung tissue and lead to lung cancer later in life.( 13)
EPA estimates that radon may cause from 7,000 to 30,000 lung cancer deaths in the
United States each year. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer deaths in
adults, after smoking. An individual's risk of getting lung cancer from radon depends
mainly on three factors: the level of radon, duration of exposure, and smoking habits.
Risk increases in individuals exposed to high levels of radon over a long time. The risk of
dying from lung cancer caused by radon is much greater for smokers than for non-
smokers.
AsbESTOS
Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was used widely in construction materials, such as
shingles for roofing and siding, pipe and boiler insulation, floor tiles, ceiling panels, coat-
ings, and gaskets. It is present in schools and other public buildings as well as in some
residential structures. Asbestos has caused lung cancer and malignant mesothelioma in the
children of asbestos workers. The children were exposed to asbestos-contaminated dust
brought home from work on their parents' shoes and clothing. EPA estimates that at least
1,000 premature deaths from cancer will occur in this country over the next 30 years among
children who are exposed today to asbestos in schools.(14) Asbestos is harmful only when
inhaled. If an asbestos-containing product, such as a floor covering, is not disturbed enough
to release microscopic particles into the air, no disease is expected to result.
UliRAviolET Liqhi
Overexposure to the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) light may damage children's skin.
Ultraviolet light is radiation from the sun that has a wavelength shorter than visible light
(toward the violet end of the visible spectrum) but longer than that of X-rays. This type of
radiation has increased on the earth's surface due to damage to the earth's ozone layer in
the outer atmosphere. Excessive sunburns experienced by children 10-15 years of age
increase by three fold the chance of developing malignant melanoma, the most deadly kind
of skin cancer, later in life.( 15,16)
HAZARdous WASTE
Exposure to hazardous wastes that have been released into the environment may present
serious health hazards to children. Hazardous wastes include substances that have cancer
or non-cancer health effects, are corrosive, or may present a danger due to fire or explo-
sion. They include a wide range of organic chemicals and heavy metals, as well as strong
acids and bases. Children may be exposed to such wastes when they play or live near
uncontrolled hazardous waste sites or spills. EPA estimates that 12 million people,
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including 4 million children, live within one mile of the nation's hazardous waste sites.
Many more children suffer from the toxic effects of heavy metals, such as lead, or are
poisoned accidentally from improper pesticide use in their homes.(l 7, 1 8)
SUMMARY of EPA AcrivmEs
ElNViRONMEINTAl TobACCO
EPA's activities relating to ETS are described in Chapter 2 Asthma and Other Respira-
tory Effects.
EPA oversees a program to detect and reduce elevated radon levels in buildings and to
inform the public about radon. Through partnerships with schools, non-profit organiza-
tions, and state agencies, EPA promotes: ( 1 ) radon awareness and testing programs for
schools and homes; (2) radon-resistant building practices; (3) methods to lower radon
levels; (4) training for school maintenance personnel on methods to lower radon levels; and
(5) technical assistance in inspecting school buildings. An important component of this
program is the National Radon Hotline (see Chapter 11).
EPA has participated in research to identify areas of the country with high levels of radon
in homes, schools, and workplaces, and to determine the national distribution of radon
levels and associated risks. EPA has supported the development of new technologies to
reduce radon concentrations in existing and new buildings.
AsbESTOS
EPA provides education and technical assistance to school districts that inspect school
buildings for asbestos-containing material and control asbestos contamination. This assis-
tance is required by EPA's Asbestos-in-Schools Rule (1987). EPA has a mandatory training
and accreditation program for professionals who work in schools and public and commercial
buildings to control asbestos. EPA has approved 27 states to administer the Asbestos
Model Accreditation Plan (MAP) Rule and directly administers a federal program in the
remaining states. This program protects children and the general public by helping ensure
that buildings are inspected or cleaned up only by properly trained and accredited personnel.
EPA conducts some inspections to ensure compliance with the federal requirements for
managing asbestos indoors. EPA also ensures proper accreditation of workers. The
Agency takes enforcement actions to bring violators into compliance. EPA also provides
grants to several states and Native American Tribes for compliance monitoring activities.
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UliRAviolET Liqk
EPA offers educational programs for parents, students, and teachers about the health risks
resulting from exposure to UV light, and encourages them to reduce exposure. A new EPA
program calls for participating schools tomonitor the daily UV Index (a measure of expo-
sure based on weather), undertake one or more activities to reduce sun exposure, and
report their progress to EPA. EPA also has developed a World Wide Web site that encour-
ages teachers and students to learn about ozone depletion, UV radiation hazards, and steps
to reduce UV exposure.
HAZARdous WASTE
EPA is conducting research to determine the specific effects of hazardous substances on
children. For instance, a current EPA research project includes an approach for predict-
ing the cancer risk from vinyl chloride gas that takes into account a child's increased
sensitivity to this gas. This "state of the science approach" provides a better tool for
determining health risks to children. EPA also is conducting a study of potential exposures
of children to over 300 chemical compounds in a locality with an increased rate of child-
hood cancers over the past 21 years. A related study addresses the health effects of
arsenic as a function of age. EPA enforcement efforts to remove or reduce children's
exposure to hazardous waste are included in Chapters 4 Developmental and Neurologi-
cal Toxicity and 5 Health Effects of Pesticides.
EPA PROJECTS REkrEcl TO CANCER
Title:
Description:
Partners:
Contact:
Radon Mitigation for School Maintenance Personnel
EPA Region 4 sponsored radon courses designed specifically to train
school maintenance personnel on how to fix their own schools. This
approach, which has served 15,000 clients in three states, is much more
cost effective than if the schools had to contract for the work. Discus-
sions are underway with Kentucky and North Carolina to offer the same
opportunity.
Alabama, Tennessee, and South Carolina Radon Programs, and Southern
Regional Radon Training Center
Region 4, Patricia Brooks, 404-562-9145
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litle:
Description:
Partners:
Contact:
Title:
Description:
Contact:
AsbESTOS
Title:
Description:
School Visits in Counties with the Highest Radon Risk
Region 4 has funded a project in which 25 schools in areas expected to be
at risk for high radon levels will be visited. ThelndoorAir Quality Tools
for Schools guidance, which has a radon component, will be introduced
and explained, and a courtesy walk-through inspection of each school will
be conducted. It is anticipated that this program will serve 10,000 clients.
The Southern Regional Radon Training Center
Region 4, Patricia Brooks, 404-562-9145
Radon Outreach
The Indoor Air program of Region 7 includes state and tribal radon
programs and a variety of other indoor air quality topics such as ventila-
tion, carpet, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and microbes. These
programs focus on education, outreach, and technical assistance. The
programs emphasize partnerships with schools, not-for-profit organiza-
tions, and state and local governments to promote radon awareness,
voluntary testing of homes and schools for radon, radon-resistant building
codes and construction, and radon cleanup.
Region 7, Tom Hogan, 913-551 -7684
Asbestos-in-Schools Rule
In response to the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act, EPA
published the Asbestos-in-Schools Rule (1982, updated in 1987). The
rule requires public and private elementary and secondary schools to
inspect for friable (easily crumbled) and non-friable asbestos, develop
management plans to address hazards, and conduct responses to eliminate
the asbestos. The EPA rule also specifies training, examination, and other
requirements to accredit persons who do this work, and sets requirements
for warning signs and transportation and disposal of materials containing
asbestos. EPA continues to monitor the requirements of the Asbestos-in-
Schools Rule and to enforce standards that protect children against
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asbestos hazards. The rule includes requirements for preschools and
daycare centers to protect younger children. EPA provides Toxic Sub-
stances Control Act funds to 26 states to carry out asbestos and other
inspections. States refer violations to the appropriate EPA regional office
for enforcement. Contact Jack Neylan, 202-564-5033 or Karen Taimi,
202-564-5046. Examples of activities to promote the Asbestos-in-
Schools Rule include:
Region 5: The Region currently provides grants to three states for the purpose of
inspecting schools to ensure adherence with the Rule. Contact Phyllis
Reed, 312-886-6018.
Region 6: Local education agencies are required to inspect for the presence of
asbestos in schools. If asbestos is present, it must be managed in good
condition orremoved. Contact Neil Pflum, 214-655-2295.
Region 7: The Region has inspected about half of the approximately 4,000 school
districts in the Region. Schools have removed or immobilized large
quantities of asbestos-containing materials in their buildings to protect the
safety of children, teachers, staff, and other occupants. Contact Tom
Hogan, 913-551-7684.
Region 9: Region 9 conducts inspections and provides technical assistance to the
regulated community to ensure requirements are met in schools and
daycare centers. The Region also funds grants to states and tribes to
develop their own asbestos programs. Contact Paula Bisson,
415-744-1128.
Title: Example of Asbestos Enforcement Case
Description: A company responsible for the removal of asbestos from a Philadelphia
facility abandoned 500 bags of asbestos materials in an unsecured facility.
Children played with the materials and exposed themselves to hazards.
The owner of the company was sentenced to six months incarceration and
three years of probation, and was required to seek mental health counseling.
Partners: EPA and the Philadelphia Environmental Crimes Task Force
Contact: Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance, Martin Topper,
202-564-2564
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LJliRAviolET Liqk
Title: Ozone Depletion Art Project
Description: The Ozone Depletion Art Proj ect uses the Internet to motivate students to
learn about ozone depletion, UV radiation hazards, and ways to reduce
sun exposure. Using an EPA web site (www.epa.gov/ozone/art), teachers
and their students learn more about ozone depletion and UV exposure
precautions. They submit drawings on the ozone layer (how it protects us
from UV radiation); ozone depletion (how ozone-depleting substances
harm the ozone layer); how UV radiation is measured; and how we can
protect ourselves from the sun's UV rays. EPA has received more than
200 drawings so far. EPA also responds to approximately 50 questions
and comments per month from students and teachers.
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Jeffrey Levy, 202-564-9727
Title: Sunwise School Program
Description: The Sunwise School Program is a school-based partnership that directly
addresses health risks resulting from exposure to UV radiation. Member
schools make a commitment to: report the UV Index daily, undertake
activities to reduce sun exposure, and document their activities and report
their progress to EPA. The program encourages schools to work with
local meteorologists, physicians, and community groups in planning their
individual Sunwise School Programs. EPA provides schools with guid-
ance on setting their Sunwise School Program goals, and recognizes
participating schools.
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Kevin Rosseel, 202-564-9731
HAZARdous WASTE
Title: Vinyl Chloride Risk Assessment Approach for Children
Description: EPA Region 9 and the Office of Research and Development developed a
risk assessment method that offers an innovative approach for protecting
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children from exposure to the carcinogenic gas, vinyl chloride. This risk
assessment method has been published in the scientific literature, pre-
sented at national and international scientific meetings, nominated for an
EPA scientific achievement award, and is being incorporated into the
revised vinyl chloride file in IRIS (EPA's Integrated Risk Information
System). Newborn animal exposure studies have demonstrated that even
a brief exposure in newborns to vinyl chloride could cause more cancers
than if exposures had occurred later in life. The risk assessment method
has been used in Region 9 to set indoor air action levels protective of
children exposed in their homes to landfill gas containing vinyl chloride.
Contact: Region 9, Gerald Hiatt, 415-744-2319 or Arnold Den, 415-744-1018
Title: Site Assessment in Response to Cancer in Children
Description: McFarland is a small, mostly Hispanic, agricultural community in
California's Central Valley. For the past 21 years, it has had an increased
rate of childhood cancers documented by the California Department of
Health Services. Due to the concern about children's health, EPA is
sampling and analyzing the air, soil, and water for releases of hazardous
substances associated with past industrial and agricultural practices, and is
investigating health problems relating to children. Sampling is expected to
be completed next year, and should allow EPA to determine the best
approach to eliminating any causes that are identified through the site
assessment.
Contact: Region 9, Mark Calhoon, 415-744-2376 or Elizabeth Adams,
415-744-2261
Title: Multi-Pathway PAH Exposure Field Evaluation for Childrenin
Low-Income Families
Description: The purpose of this research is to understand the extent to which children
in low-income families are being exposed to polycyclic aromatic hydro-
carbons (PAHs). PAHs are a product of incomplete combustion of
carbon substances (e.g., from automobile exhaust, smoke stacks, and
cooking) and are fairly pervasive in the environment. A pilot study that
included both inner-city and rural homes examined the exposures of
children to PAHs in air, water, food, house dust, and soil. EPA is extend-
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ing this research to include low-income children in daycare centers.
Preliminary results indicate that exposure to PAHs through inhalation, skin
contact, and dirt and dust ingestion is as important a source of contamina-
tion as is dietary exposure for young children. Future research will com-
pare low-income and middle-income family exposures.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, N. Colleen Wilson, 913-551 -7272
Title: Evaluation of Urinary Metabolites of Arsenic for Exposure Biomarker
Description: Information on urinary arsenic metabolic profiles (chemical indicators of
the presence of arsenic in the body through urine tests) are being devel-
oped for arsenic in drinking water and diet. This will enable EPA to
compare differences as a function of age (adults and children under 16),
sex, volume of water ingested, and individual differences.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Rebecca Calderon, 919-966-0617
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REFERENCES
i.
Miller, B.A., L.A.G. Ries, F.R. Hankey, F.L. Kosary, A. Harras, S.S. Devesa,
and B .K. Edwards (editors). 1993. SEER Cancer Statistics Review: 1973 -1990.
NIH Publication Number 93-2789. National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD.
USPHS. 1991. Vital Statistics of the United States, 1988, Volume II: Mortality.
National Center for Health Statistics, U.S. Public Health Service, Washington, DC.
Parker, S.L.,T. Tong, S. Bolden, and PA. Wingo. 1996. CA-A Cancer Journal
for Clinicians. Volume 46, Pages 5-28.
Zahm, S.H. and S.S. Devesa. 1995. Childhood Cancer: Overview of Incidence
Trends and Environmental Carcinogens. Environmental Health Perspectives. Vol-
ume 103 (Supplement 6), Pages 177-184.
Bleyer, W. A. 1993. What Can be Learned about Childhood Cancer from Cancer
Statistics Review 1973-1988. Cancer (supplement). Volume 71, Pages 3229-
3236.
NCI. 1997. SEER Cancer Statistics Review, 1973-1994. U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services. National Cancer Institute. NIH Publication Number
97-2789, page 457.
Devesa, S.S.,W.J. Blot,B.A. Miller, R.E. Tarove, and J.F. Fraumeni,Jr. 1995.
Recent Cancer Trends in the United States. Journal: National Cancer Institute.
Volume 87, Pages 175-182.
Doll, R. 1976. The Contribution of Epidemiology to Knowledge of Cancer. Re-
view of Epidemiology and Public Health (FR). Volume 24, Pages 107-121.
Weinstein, I.B. 1988. The Origins of Human Cancer: Molecular Mechanism of
Carcinogenesis and Their Treatment. Cancer Research. Volume 48, Pages 4135-
4143.
10. NRC. 1993. Pesticides in the Diets of Infants and Children. National Research
Council. Washington, DC: National Academy Press.
11. USEPA. 1994. Indoor Air Pollution: An Introduction for Health Professionals.
GPO Number 1994-523-217/81322. American Lung Association, U.S. Environ-
mental Protection Agency, Consumer Product Safety Commission, and American
Medical Association.
12. NIOSH. 1991. Current Intelligence Bulletin 54: Environmental Tobacco Smoke in
the Workplace. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
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13. USEPA. 1996. Radon: Risks and Realities. U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency, Office of Radiation and Indoor Air. August 13.
14. USEPA. 1980. Proposed Rule on Friable Asbestos Containing Materials in School
Buildings: Health Effects and Magnitude of Exposure (Support Document). Publica-
tion Number EPA 560-12-80-003. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office
of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances.
15. ACS. 1996. Skin Cancer Fact Sheet. American Cancer Society.
16. AAD. 1997. Melanoma Risk Factors Fact Sheet. American Academy of Dermatology.
17. ATSDR. 1996. 1996 ATSDR Report to Congress: 1993-1995. U.S. Department
of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Agency for Toxic Substances
and Disease Registry.
18. USEPA. 1996. Pesticides and Child Safety. Publication Number EPA 735-F-93-
050R. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Pesticide Programs.
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AN(J
NEURoloqicAl Toxiciiy
Neurotoxic substances are chemical compounds that, depending on the dose, may have
harmful effects on brain function and interfere with the workings of the nervous system.
Neurotoxics may affect intelligence, language ability, and attention. (1,2,3,4) They may
cause behavioral problems and affect mood and social adjustment. At very high doses,
neurotoxics may produce such effects as coma, convulsions, respiratory paralysis, and
death. (5) Lead, mercury, and poly chlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are among the substances
suspected of having harmful and possibly permanent neurological effects on children.
The Mad Hatter
Lewis Carroll's Mad Hatter character in Alice s Adventures in Wonderland
probably is based on observations of the neurotoxic effects of inhaling vapors from
mercury that nineteenth century hat-makers used to prepare felt.
Abnormal development is a maj or concern in children because it may result in birth
defects and lasting changes in intelligence, behavior, and reproductive capability. A child's
nervous system, reproductive organs, and immune system grow and develop rapidly
during the first months and years of life. As organ structures develop, vital connections
between cells are established. These delicate developmental processes in children may be
easily and irreversibly disrupted by environmental toxic substances, such as lead.(6)
Neurotoxics that may have only a temporary ill effect on an adult brain can cause enduring
damage to a child's developing brain.(7,8) The immaturity of children's internal systems,
especially in the first few months of life, affects their ability to neutralize and rid their
bodies of certain toxics. If cells in the developing brain are destroyed by lead, mercury,
or other neurotoxic chemicals, or if vital connections between nerve cells fail to form, the
damage is likely to be permanent and irreversible. This may mean a loss of intelligence
and alteration of normal behavior.(9,10,11,12)
Lead is a neurotoxic metal that affects areas of the brain associated with regulating
behavior by altering the output of neurotransmitters and disrupting the development of
nerve cells. Lead poisoning in children may cause lowered intelligence, reading and
learning disabilities, impaired hearing, reduced attention span, hyperactivity, and antisocial
behavior. Pregnant women exposed to lead may transfer the metal to a developing fetus,
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resulting in developmental problems. While the fetus is developing, there are critical
periods for each organ system, including the nervous system. During these critical periods,
the cells of the body are especially sensitive to environmental toxics that may interfere with
the normal development of organ structure and function.
A growing body of evidence suggests a number of synthetic and naturally occurring
organic chemicals may disrupt the endocrine (hormonal) systems of humans and wildlife.
A variety of chemicals cause endocrine disruption in laboratory animals, and some scien-
tists have hypothesized that these effects also may occur in humans. Although further
research is needed before such effects can be either demonstrated or ruled out, theoreti-
cally children would be at particular risk from very low levels of endocrine disrupting
chemicals because of the important role the endocrine system plays in development.
Concern exists about the potential for adverse developmental effects because chemicals
that block or "mimic" reproductive and thyroid hormones may determine the course of
prenatal development. (13,14)
PossiblE ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
l_EAd
Lead is a major environmental health hazard for young children. In 1997, the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that between 1991 and 1994, about
900,000 children in the United States under the age of six had elevated blood lead
levels.(15,16)
Childhood Lead Facts
* 900,000 American children have elevated blood lead levels of concern.(l 5)
* Lead paint in older housing is the principal source of lead exposure to-
day.(15,16)
* Drinking water can be a significant source of lead exposure in some homes and
buildings.(15,20)
* In the fetus and young children, elevated lead may damage the brain, resulting in
persistent neurological dysfunction.(12)
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Approximately 75 percent of U. S . homes built prior to 1 978 contain some lead
paint.(l 7, 18,19) Children living in older homes are threatened by chipping or peeling lead
paint, and by excessive amounts of lead-contaminated dust resulting from efforts to
remove paint during remodeling. Children may be exposed to lead through drinking water
that has elevated concentrations from lead plumbing materials and corrosive water. They
may breathe air contaminated from nearby smelters, battery plants, and industrial facilities
that process lead. Exposure to lead from nearby hazardous waste sites also is a con-
cern.(15,20)
ENdocRiNE DisRupiORs
Increasing scientific and public attention has been focused on substances that have the
potential of disrupting the endocrine systems of wildlife, laboratory animals, and possibly
humans.(2 1 ) Disruption of the endocrine system may occur in various ways. Some
chemicals may mimic a natural hormone, in effect fooling the body into over-responding to
the hormone. Other chemicals may block the effects of a hormone in parts of the body
normally sensitive to it. Still others may indirectly stimulate or inhibit the endocrine system,
leading to overproduction or underproduction of hormones. Endocrine disrupters may
also play a role in reproductive cancers. (22)
Scientific questions remain, however, about which chemicals are involved in disruption of
the endocrine system and how children may be exposed to those chemicals. It is not yet
known whether health effects similar to those observed in laboratory animals are pro-
duced in humans, and what methods are best for testing for these effects. EPA is investing
significant resources to find answers to these questions.
PCBs ANd DioxiNs
PCBs and dioxins produce anumber of toxic effects in animals. (23 ,24) They have been
linked to such health concerns as decreased gestational age, lower birth weight, de-
pressed immune responses, impaired mental development, and growth retarda-
tion. (24, 25 ,26) Dioxin is considered by EPA to be a known human carcinogen and as
such may have adverse effects on children that do not become apparent until many years
after exposure occurs.(24,27) However, no direct causal relationship has been established
between PCB exposure and human health effects.
EPA banned PCBs over 20 years ago, and the Agency has taken steps to regulate over
95 percent of known sources of dioxin in the United States. Unfortunately, these chemi-
cals are highly persistent in the environment. Because PCBs accumulate in fish and in
humans, additional exposures to infants and young children may occur through ingesting
contaminated fish and breast muk.(22)
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MERCURY
Mercury is another neurotoxic substance that can produce a wide range of health effects
depending on the amount and timing of exposure. Mercury is a liquid at room temperature
but vaporizes readily; in vapor form it is readily absorbed through the lungs. Repeated
exposures to low levels of mercury vapor over long periods have been associated with
tremors, irritability, impulsiveness, drowsiness, impaired memory, and sleep distur-
bances.(28) These effects may occur at lower levels of exposure in children than adults.
When mercury attaches to an organic molecule, it may be absorbed into the body through
the digestive tract. Methylmercury, which is produced naturally by certain bacteria, is such
a molecule. It can cross the placenta and enter the brain, causing severe brain damage in
fetuses. High mercury levels in fish consumed by pregnant women have been linked to
severe brain damage and cerebral palsy in newborns.(28,29)
Children are exposed to mercury primarily from eating contaminated fish. However,
children eating soil contaminated with mercury or accidental exposures to mercury, also
have been documented.
MANQANESE
Airborne manganese particles emitted from industrial and natural sources or from a fuel
additive (methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl or MMT) may be neurotoxic.
Although MMT was banned by EPA as a gasoline additive in 1994, a recent court ruling
allowed the additive to be used while being tested for health effects. Laboratory studies
show that manganese disturbs normal functioning of brain cells in rats. Manganese com-
pounds also cross the placenta and may retard growth in fetal rodents. Evidence of
developmental effects from chronic inhalation of manganese compounds in humans comes
from manganese miners, who have high rates of psychosis and frequently suffer from a
condition similar to Parkinson's disease.(30,31)
SUMMARY of EPA AcrivmEs
l_EAd
EPA's phase out of lead in gasoline, beginning in 1976, has resulted in a major reduction in
airborne lead levels. Between 1976 and 1995, ambient air lead concentrations in the
United States have declined on average by 97 percent.(32)
Several measures have substantially reduced lead exposure from drinking water. The Safe
Drinking Water Act prohibits use or sale of lead solder and the manufacture of water
coolers containing lead components. Plumbing manufacturers have phased down the
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amount of lead in faucets and other fixtures. Water suppliers are required by EPA regula-
tion to minimize the corrosiveness of their water and replace, where needed, lead service
connections. Lead in the diet has been reduced dramatically because crops are much less
likely to be contaminated by lead in the air and because of the phase out of lead solder in
food cans. The combination of all of these actions has helped reduce average blood lead
levels in children and adults by more than 80 percent since the 1970s, according to CDC
data, protecting millions of children from serious, permanent neurological effects.(16)
Because of the continuing threat of exposure from lead paint, EPA works with the De-
partments of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Health and Human Services
(HHS) to ensure that the nation's housing is safe from lead contamination. HUD and EPA
are responsible for enforcement of the Residential Disclosure Rule that gives consumers
the right to know about lead-based paint hazards in pre-1978 homes that they may buy or
rent. This rule requires, among other things:
• Disclosure of all known lead-based paint hazards in pre-1978 housing and any
available reports on lead in the housing.
• Distribution of the EPA pamphlet "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home."
• Inclusion of warnings in sales or lease contracts.
• An opportunity to test the housing for lead.
EPA also is working with the states to help ensure that abatement (control or removal) of
lead-based paint hazards is carried out safely. The Agency has established rules regulat-
ing the training of individuals conducting lead-based paint abatement, accreditation of
training programs, and certification of contractors.
A comprehensive assessment of residential lead risks to children is being developed by
the Agency. This assessment will include a process for identifying specific levels of lead
contamination in residential dust and soil as well as paint conditions that present hazards
to children.
EPA is taking legal action at nonferrous metal smelters that violate state or federal regula-
tions. Through increased enforcement, EPA is reducing lead emissions that may contami-
nate schools and lawns where children play. The Agency also is researching childhood
blood lead levels in communities surrounding former lead smelters and paying close
attention to ongoing studies in this area.
EPA, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), and HUD are
working together to examine blood lead levels in children and to develop ways to deal
with the effects of environmental lead on children in urban environments. This work
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includes examining the dietary intake of lead in young children and investigating the effects
of lead on adolescent development and maturation.
The Agency conducts a variety of public education programs aimed at the children most at
risk from lead poisoning, particularly disadvantaged children who live in houses contami-
nated with lead paint. For example:
• A number of EPA regions are training volunteers to educate residents in low-income
areas about how to recognize and prevent childhood lead poisoning in their communities.
• In Region 7, community outreach focuses on protecting children from lead poisoning in
residential settings and in mining communities, where blood lead studies revealed
unsafe lead levels in children.
• Other regions offer programs to protect tribal groups and migrant workers from lead
contamination in soils.
Scientists Study New Methods for Assessing
Lead Exposure among Children
EPA is expanding its efforts to evaluate the impact on children from lead-contaminated hazardous waste
sites. A new Integrated Exposure and Uptake Biokinetics (IEUBK) model was designed to be used in
predicting the risks to children posed by sites with lead contamination. This method allows researchers
to evaluate the risk of lead poisoning to children between the ages of six months and six years for the
first time. It predicts changes in blood lead levels based on exposure through soil ingestion and inhala-
tion, allowing EPA to better evaluate the need for cleanup at the site.
DisRupiORs
EPA has developed a substantial research program to understand the adverse effects of
endocrine disrupting chemicals that exist in the environment. Under the mandates of the
Safe Drinking Water Act and the Food Quality Protection Act, EPA established the
Endocrine Disruptor Screening and Testing Advisory Committee to advise the Agency
on a screening and testing strategy for potential endocrine disrupters. EPA has issued new
guidelines for evaluating reproductive toxicity and is updating guidelines for reproductive and
developmental toxicity testing. Region 5 sponsored a workshop to discuss science and
public policy issues related to endocrine disrupters in the Great Lakes Basin.
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EPA is devoting significant resources to implement a multi-year research strategy on endo-
crine disrupters. Agency personnel participate in a workgroup (convened by the President's
Office of Science and Technology Policy) charged with coordinating research on endocrine
disrupters throughout the federal government. The Agency is funding the National Research
Council 's detailed review of existing literature on endocrine disruption. EPA has prepared
its own review of the literature and has issued an interim policy statement while it awaits the
NRC report. (22) EPA also is sponsoring research on the reproductive effects of certain
pesticides, the relationship between human sperm count and fertility, and reproductive
problems among alligators and fish resulting from chemical contamination.
PCBs ANd DioxiNs
EPA is conducting research to better understand the potential neurological and develop-
mental effects of PCBs and dioxins. EPA is assessing the neurotoxic risks to children
exposed to PCBs, and is further examining the long-term effects of PCB exposure.
MERCURY
EPA has recently completed a Report to Congress on mercury that assesses the magni-
tude of U.S. mercury emissions, the health and environmental implications, and control
technologies. (33)
EPA is conducting studies that focus on specific risks to children from mercury, and is
monitoring the findings of human studies on methylmercury exposure and its impact on
nervous system development. The Agency will continue its work on setting standards for
allowable levels of exposure to mercury. EPA also has begun a public education program
to increase awareness and prevent mercury poisoning in children exposed to mercury
vapors in homes.
EPA PROJECTS ON DEVELOPMENTAL Ai\d NEURoloqicAl Toxiciiy
l_EAd
Title: Lead-Based Paint Compliance Assurance Program—Compliance
Assistance, Inspections, and Enforcement
Description: EPA has issued guidance to help ensure compliance with rules designed to
protect the public from lead-based paint hazards. Compliance assistance,
inspections, and enforcement are all tools that will be used to help ensure
that children are safe from lead-based paint hazards. EPA regions have
provided compliance assistance to the real estate industry and others
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subject to the Residential Disclosure Rule. EPA also is following up on
complaints from the public about potential violations of this Rule. With
regard to other lead-based paint requirements, a federal compliance and
enforcement program addressing abatement, certification, and training will
operate in those states without an authorized program.
Contact: Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance, Claude Walker, 202-
564-4042 or Fran Jonesi, 202-564-7043.
Title: Examples of Regional Lead-Based Paint Activities:
Description: As illustrated below, each EPA regional office conducts programs to
reduce lead-based paint hazards:
Region 1: Region 1 publicizes the new real estate notification rules that are designed
to protect children from lead poisoning and lead paint, and to remove
children from premises undergoing renovation. Contact Maureen
McClelland, 617-565-3543.
Region 2: The Region is conducting a study of high risk urban communities affected
by the real estate disclosure regulations to ensure that realtors are inform-
ing sellers and landlords of their responsibilities and properly informing
buyers and lessees. Outreach to community groups and compliance
assistance to the regulated community also target these areas. Contact
Louis Bevilacqua, 732-321-6671.
Region 5: The Region has developed initiatives for public awareness and compliance
with lead-based paint standards for daycare centers and other buildings
frequented by children. Outreach to realtor groups raises awareness and
helps prevent parents from buying or renting residential property that might
expose children to unsafe lead-based paint conditions. Contact Phyllis
Reed, 312-886-6018.
Region 6: Region 6 is providing outreach to assist the real estate industry in meeting
the requirements of the lead-based paint regulations, and to inform parents
about lead-based paint exposure and hazards. These actions will allow
families to take the necessary steps to minimize risk to children. Contact
AnnaTreinies, 214-665-8348.
Region 7: Through a lead-based paint outreach program, the Region is testing blood
lead levels, developing certification training classes for nonprofit organiza-
tions, providing compliance assistance, conducting presentations and mass
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mailings, and developing an Internet home page for children. The Region
purchased X-ray fluorescence equipment to test the level of lead in tribal
homes. Contact Tom Hogan, 913-551-7684.
Region 9: Region 9 maintains an outreach program to implement the Residential
Lead-Based Paint Hazards Reduction Act. State and tribal grants are
awarded to establish programs for preventing or eliminating lead poison-
ing in children and to help community-based organizations conduct public
programs on the dangers of lead. The Region also provides technical
assistance and training. Contact Paula Bisson, 415-744-1128.
Title: Lead-Based Paint Compliance Monitoring and Enforcement Cooperative
Agreement Funding for States
Description: In fiscal year 1997, EPA provided $ 1 million to 13 states to enhance the
state enforcement component of their lead-based paint programs.
Partners: State agencies
Contact: Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance, Jack Neylan, 202-
564-5033 or Karen Taimi, 202-564-5046
Title: Community/University Partnership for Lead Education
Description: Through an EPA grant, Xavier University has developed a proj ect to
identify, prevent, and intervene in instances of lead poisoning of at-risk
children residing along the Mississippi River Chemical Corridor. The
university is working with ten community-based organizations to develop
and promote lead education and training for community members, health
care providers, children, and elementary and secondary teachers. The
program includes lead screening and lead testing in homes to reduce
exposure in children.
Contact: Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance, Daniel Gogal,
202-564-2576
Title: The Childhood Lead Action Project
Description: EPA is assisting the Rhode Island Childhood Lead Action Project to
prevent childhood lead poisoning through education, parent support, and
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advocacy. The Childhood Lead Action Project has conducted lead
education and outreach in high-risk, low-income Hispanic,
African-American, and Asian communities.
Contact: Region 1, Maureen McClelland, 617-565-3543 or Jim Bryson,
617-565-3836
Title: Urban Environmental Initiative
Description: EPA Region 1 works with community leaders to address critical urban
environmental issues, including lead poisoning. Efforts include the "Com-
munities Saving Their Children's Future" series of workshops to train
residents in the prevention of early childhood lead poisoning. Region 1
also provides funds to its partners for outreach and educational campaigns
directed toward parents and human service providers in the inner city.
Partners: Boston University School of Public Health, Boston Department of Envi-
ronmental Health, National Center of Lead-Safe Housing, The Medical
Foundation of Boston, and Childhood Lead Action
Contact: Region 1, Lois Adams, 617-565-3487
Title: Lead Poisoning Prevention Curriculum
Description: Through a cooperative agreement with the Education Development
Center, EPA Region 1 has assisted in developing and distributing "Health
Beginnings: Lead-Safe Families," an English-as-a-second-language
curriculum on lead poisoning prevention. Almost 400 regional learning
centers have received the curriculum and provided thousands of families
with critical information on avoiding lead exposure.
Contact: Region 1, Maureen McClelland, 617-565-3543 or Jim Bryson,
617-565-3836
Title: New England Lead Coordinating Committee
Description: EPA and The New England Lead Coordinating Committee, through a
cooperative agreement with Tufts University, facilitates coordination of
lead poisoning prevention among the states, EPA, and other federal
agencies. More than $130,000 has been granted to grassroots community
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organizations working to prevent lead poisoning, many of which focus of
children's health issues. For example, puppet shows have been devel-
oped to teach children about lead safety.
Partners: Tufts University
Contact: Region 1, Maureen McClelland, 617-565-3 543 or Jim Bryson,
617-565-3836
Title: Daycare Provider Lead Awareness Course
Description: The Daycare Provider Lead Awareness Course was developed by EPA
Region 1 and distributed in all New England states. State agencies and
nonprofit organizations deliver the course to daycare providers.
Partners: Connecticut Department of Public Health and University of Connecticut
Cooperative Extension System in West Hartford, CT
Contact: Region 1, Maureen McClelland, 617-565-3 543 or Jim Bryson,
617-565-3836
Title: Vermont Lead S afety Proj ect
Description: The Vermont Lead Safety Project, through an EPA grant, has given
hundreds of slide presentations and workshops. Children's puppet shows
on lead have been performed for schools, community groups, daycare
providers, hospitals, and other organizations. The staff of the project
also provide free phone consultations on lead to the public.
Contact: Region 1, Maureen McClelland, 617-565-3543 or Jim Bryson,
617-565-3836
Title: AmeriCorps/EPA Neighborhood Improvement Project
Description: With EPA funding, AmeriCorps members teach Newark, NJ, residents to
recognize and prevent lead and carbon monoxide poisoning through
public awareness presentations. More than 2,400 residents are more
aware of lead and carbon monoxide poisoning risks and what they can do
to keep themselves and their children healthy.
Contact: Region 2, Louis Bevilacqua, 732-321 -6671
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TMe: Environmental Justice Grants
Description: EPA Region 2 has awarded over 45 grants totaling approximately
$ 1,000,000 to nonprofit grassroots organizations for projects on children's
health issues, primarily to prevent lead-paint poisoning. Grant programs
include projects in the Bronx, NY; Syracuse, NY; and Patterson and
Newark, NJ. One grant supports statewide outreach in New York to
educate parents of school-aged children about environmental health and
safety hazards in schools, such as pesticides, lead, asbestos, radon, and
indoor air pollution.
Contact: Region2, Melva Hayden, 212-637-5027
Title: Superfund Risk Assessment for Children
Description: Using the Integrated Exposure and Uptake Biokinetic (IEUBK) model,
EPA Region 2 and other EPA regions have improved assessments of risks
to children posed by Superfund sites. The IEUBK model allows re-
searchers to evaluate risks to children of ages six months to six years
through soil ingestion or inhalation. By predicting changes in blood lead
levels in the population, EPA can evaluate the need for remediation.
Potential risks to children trespassing onto abandoned hazardous waste
sites also are evaluated.
Contact: Region2, Marion Olsen, 212-637-4313
Title: An Adult Lead Model at Hazardous Waste Sites
Description: EPA's Region 2 Superfund program has started evaluating risks to women
of childbearing age and their prospective children from lead exposure at
commercial and industrial sites. This allows the potential for elevated
blood lead levels in the developing fetus to be taken into consideration
when determining whether to proceed with cleanup of lead contamination.
The model is being used by other EPA regions, states, and contractors.
Contact: Region 2, Mark Maddaloni, 212-63 7-4315
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Title: Vega Baj a Solid Waste Disposal Site Assessment
Description: EPA Region 2 conducted various tests to determine lead levels at the
Vega Baja landfill site in a rural area of Rio Abajo Ward, Puerto Rico.
Inspection of the site revealed that lead levels in soil samples collected
from the residential area (200 dwellings on 11 acres) were higher than
expected. Additional samples were collected to explore possible lead
hazards in soil, tap water, and homegrown fruits and vegetables. Blood
lead testing of 42 children, ages one to six, living on the Vega Baja site
revealed no indication of health concerns at the present time, although
isolated soil hot spots remain a potential health threat.
Partners: ATSDR, Food and Drug Administration, and Puerto Rico Department of
Health
Contact: Region2, Jose Font, 212-637-6951
Title: Roebling Playground Remediation
Description: Lead paint contamination was removed from two playgrounds near the
Roebling Steel Superfund site in New Jersey. Cleanup activities helped
protect the health of children using the playgrounds. EPA Region 2
continues to monitor the playgrounds in order to protect against recon-
tamination from nearby structures.
Contact: Region 2, Mark Maddaloni, 212-637-4315
Title: Program-Specific Activities and Strategies
Description: EPA Region 3 is working with the CDC and state agencies to promote
community-based assistance projects to reduce and prevent childhood
lead poisoning. Activities designed to protect children include: developing
data on cumulative and simultaneous exposures from industrial chemical
facilities; providing families with improved access to environmental and
health information; developing data systems to facilitate better detection of
children's unmet health needs; and measuring program improvements.
Partners: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Contact: Region 3, Aquanetta Dickens, 215-566-2080
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TMe: Urban Environmental Initiatives
Description: Region 3 is pursuing environmental and enforcement activities in urban
areas that have high concentrations of industrial activity coincident with
populations that are disadvantaged and largely minority. These areas are:
Baltimore, Maryland; Chester and South/Southwest Philadelphia, Pennsyl-
vania; and Anacostia, District of Columbia. The Childhood Lead Poison-
ing Prevention Program provides outreach designed to inform parents of
the health risks of lead dust and to train them to protect their children from
these threats. Cleaning kits are distributed to families with at-risk children
in order to reduce the levels of lead-bearing dust in these homes.
Contact: Region 3, Reggie Harris, 215-566-2988
Title: Superfund Evaluation of Lead-Contaminated Soil
Description: Region 6 has taken response actions at three large lead sites (National
Zinc, RSR, and Eagle-Picher) and is planning for another at Tar Creek.
Concerted efforts are being made with state health departments to provide
hygiene information to residents, schools, and daycare centers for minimiz-
ing children's exposure to lead. For example, at the National Zinc site,
EPA worked with Oklahoma's Department of Environmental Quality and
Department of Health to develop educational programs for preventing
children's exposure to lead. The agencies held seminars during a blood
sampling campaign to discuss lead exposure prevention techniques with
schools and daycare centers. Schools were provided material for children
to take home to parents. At the RSR site, 1,500 families in seven neigh-
borhoods received this type of information, and residential yard cleanup
was conducted on four sites.
Contact: Region 6, Ghassan Khoury, 214-665-8515 or Don Williams,
214-665-2197
Title: Industrial Chrome Plating Emergency Response
Description: EPA Region 8 emergency response personnel are conducting response
activities on the Industrial Chrome Plating Site in Denver, Colorado. A
school is located near the plating facility, and local children used the property
as a playground and its back alley as a school walkway. Industrial Chrome
Plating is an abandoned electroplating facility that stored hazardous
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materials, including acidic, caustic, oxidizing, and combustible materials
associated with chrome, nickel, and lead plating. EPA has fenced the
property and is removing hazardous materials and contamination from the
site for disposal.
Contact: Region 8, Due Nguyen, 3 03 -312-6509
Title: Residential Cleanups of Lead-Contaminated Soil
Description: A number of EPA Region 8 Superfund residential cleanups of
lead-contaminated soil are being conducted to protect children under
seven years of age from lead poisoning. These cleanups are intended
primarily to reduce exposure occurring through ingestion of
lead-contaminated soil. Sites being cleaned up are:
• Smuggler Mountain, Colorado, 500 families
• Leadville, Colorado, 1,700 families including 550 children
• East Helena, Montana, 2,100 families including 800 children
• Butte/Silver Bow Creek, Montana, 4,000 families
• Herriman, Utah, 75 families
• Bingham Creek, Utah, 1,100 families including 1,000 children
• Sandy, Utah, 200 families including 250 children
• Midvale, Utah, 600 families including 240 children
• Murray Smelter, Utah, 100 families including 70 children.
Blood lead levels were tested in 200 children of ages ten or less at the Butte/
Silver Bow Creek site and in 45 children at the Smuggler Mountain site.
Contact: Region 8, Susan Griffin, 303-312-6651
Title: Environmental Epidemiological Survey of Lead Exposure of Children in
Tijuana, Mexico
Description: EPA and researchers from the University of California-Irvine are conduct-
ing an epidemiological study of blood lead concentration. The research
includes 1,600 Tijuana children of ages one to six years. Scientists are
exploring sociological and demographic factors related to lead exposure.
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The project will raise awareness of the problems associated with children's
exposure to lead among Tijuana government officials, industries, and
citizens. Work completed includes renovation of a nurses' coordination
facility, development of a Spanish language survey instrument, training on
blood lead analysis for Mexicans in San Diego, and agreements with the
medical services in Tijuana to permit the collection of samples from children.
Approximately 100 children have been screened over the past year.
Partners: University of California-Irvine and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Contact: Region 9, Winona Victery, 415-744-1021
Title: Tribal Children Blood Lead Hazards
Description: Region 10 is funding a region-wide information and education program
designed to reduce exposure of tribal children to lead. During 1996, EPA
awarded $346,268 in grants to Washington, Alaska, and Idaho for lead
information outreach to seven tribes and for blood lead level testing in
tribal children.
Contact: Region 10, Barbara Ross, 206-553-1985
Title: Oregon Legal Services Corporation Grant
Description: Region 10 provided funds to the Oregon Legal Services Corporation for
outreach on lead poisoning to low-income rural and minority families in
nine Oregon counties. The project will:
• develop prevention methods,
• identify children at risk,
• direct at-risk children to medical staff for blood lead level testing,
• obtain information about risk factors in rural housing, and
• advocate statewide lead abatement programs to identify children at risk.
Information about lead poisoning hazards will be provided to 8,000 people,
including more than 80 percent of the area's families. The
proj ect will identify specific rural concerns for use in state and local
plans. Blood lead level testing of children between the ages of two and four is
underway.
Contact: Region 10, Susan Morales, 206-553-8580
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Title: Migrant Worker Housing Facility Lead and Arsenic Survey
Description: With EPA assistance, the Washington State Department of Health con-
ducted an environmental lead and arsenic study at five migrant worker
housing facilities in North Central Washington. Housing was located in or
adj acent to orchards where soil was thought to be contaminated with lead
arsenate used in the past to control the codling moth in apple and pear
orchards. Data suggest that lead and arsenic remain at these facilities and a
health risk may exist. As a result, efforts are being made to provide risk
information to the residents. A strategy for preventing lead and arsenic
exposure to young children will be implemented prior to the next harvest
season.
Contact: Region 10, Barbara Ross, 206-553-1985
Title: Bunker Hill Superfund Site Childhood Blood Lead Study
Description: EPA Region 10 is conducting a childhood blood lead study in the commu-
nities surrounding the former lead smelter at the Bunker Hill Superfund
Site near Kellogg, ID. Since 1974, every child nine years of age or
younger has been screened annually. The study is used to direct the
efforts of the local health intervention program and to target residential
cleanup activities. Approximately 7,000 adults and 400 children in the
community are affected. Project results show a 30-fold decrease in the
percent of children whose blood lead concentrations exceed ten micro-
grams per deciliter, a ten-fold drop in average blood lead concentrations,
and a decrease in the percentage of children living on contaminated yards.
Partners: Idaho Department of Environmental Quality
Contact: Region 10, Nancy Wilson, 206-553-1237
Title: Yakima Children Blood Lead Study
Description: EPA awarded the Washington State Department of Health more than
$2.5 million in grant funds for determining the extent of threats to children
caused by lead paint and lead dust across the state. A study in the
Yakima, WA, area found that 9 percent of about 170 children (six months
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to three years old) had elevated blood lead levels. The Agency will rely
on education and awareness about lead poisoning to reduce blood lead
levels in children.
Contact: Region 10, Barbara Ross, 206-553-1985
Title: Monitoring Compliance with and Enforcing the Requirements of the
National Drinking Water Regulations for Lead and Copper
Description: EPA is currently evaluating compliance of public water systems with the
national primary drinking water regulations for lead and copper. These
regulations established monitoring and treatment requirements for public
water systems. This project is designed to ensure compliance by all public
water systems, thereby reducing the amount of lead children consume from
drinking water. So far, several hundred enforcement actions have been
taken by EPA and the states against systems that have failed to meet the
initial monitoring requirements of the rule. Currently, EPA is evaluating
data on whether systems have complied with the subsequent requirements
in the rule (e.g., installation of corrosion control, beginning of lead service
line replacement). EPA will be working with the states to take appropriate
actions to return violators to compliance.
Partners: State agencies
Contact: Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance, Brian Maas,
202-564-6019 or Betsy Devlin, 202-564-4054
Title: Investigations and Enforcement at Nonferrous Metal Smelters
Description: EPA is conducting investigations and enforcement activities at nonferrous
(other than iron) metal smelters in an effort to reduce overall emissions at
facilities that violate state or federal regulations. Those in violation may be
emitting lead and other toxic metals into the air, which may contaminate
schools and lawns where children play. Sources have been targeted for
inspections to determine compliance with state and federal requirements.
Contact: Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance, Gary Secrest,
202-564-8661
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Title: Rulemaking on Do-It-Yourself Debris from Removal of Lead-Based Paint
Description: EPA will clarify the regulations concerning disposal of debris generated
from renovations and remodeling that involves removal of lead-based
paints from private households. This program is aimed at protecting
children because they are most at-risk from lead-based paint in house-
holds. The Agency will encourage homeowners and contractors to
accelerate the removal of lead from children's home environments by
addressing disposal costs for lead-contaminated debris.
Contact: Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response, Rajani Joglekar,
703-308-8806
Title: Targeting Criminal Violations that Threaten Health and Safety of Children
Description: EPA is implementing strategies to expose potential criminal violations that
threaten the health and safety of children. Criminal enforcement actions
can have direct relevance to children's health. For example, 17 children
showed high blood lead levels after lead mining waste from railroad cars
was illegally disposed of in a rural creek bed near the children's homes.
Criminal actions were pursued in this case and others.
Contact: Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance, David Montoya,
202-564-2548
Title: Lead in Children's Products
Description: EPA and the Consumer Product Safety Commission work together to
monitor the use of lead in consumer products, especially those used by
children in the United States. Examples of products that have posed
exposure problems in the past include crayons imported from China, toys
decorated with lead-based paint, and non-glossy vinyl mini-blinds. Both
agencies currently are reviewing studies of lead in other children's vinyl
products.
Partners: Consumer Product Safety Commission
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Tova Spector,
202-260-3467
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litle:
Description:
Contact:
Title:
Description:
Contact:
Title:
Description:
Contact:
Lead-Based Paint Activities in Residences and Daycare Centers—State
and Tribal Program Development
Safe removal of lead-based paint requires a professional who knows how
to evaluate and remove the hazard without worsening the problem. To
ensure that homeowners and others who need these services can locate
trained professionals, EPA issued rules on the training and certification of
lead-based paint inspectors and abatement professionals. The rule also
includes procedures for states and tribes to apply to EPA for authorization
to set up their own programs. States and tribes have been given two years
to apply. After August 31,1998, EPA will administer the program in any
remaining states and tribal areas.
Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Mark Henshall,
202-260-5089
Lead-Based Paint Activities in Buildings and Other Structures
In September 1977, EPA took comments on a series of questions EPA
had formulated to better understand the industrial painting sector prior to
developing new regulations for lead-based paint activities in buildings and
other structures. EPA will develop regulations similar to those for lead-
based paint activities in residences and daycare centers. Over the next
year, EPA will gather information on the industry. The proposed rule will
be issued for public comment in 199 8.
Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Ellie Clark, 202-
260-3402
Disposal of Lead-Based Paint Debris
EPA is exploring regulatory alternatives to lower the cost of disposal
of lead-based paint waste while continuing to protect human health and
the environment. These regulations will make abatement less expensive
so that more families will be able to remove lead-based paint from
their homes.
Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Tim Torma,
202-260-4595
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Title: Evaluating the Risks of Lead Hazards from Renovation and Remodeling
Description: The 1992 Lead Hazard Reduction Act required EPA to assess the risk of
exposure to lead resulting from renovation and remodeling of housing,
commercial buildings, and public buildings constructed before 1978. EPA
is currently completing studies of renovation and remodeling activities.
EPA will use the results and consult with stakeholders to determine if
revisions to the training and certification rules for lead-based paint inspec-
tors and abatement professionals are needed.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Dana M.
Screws, 202-260-1562
Title: Lead-Based Paint Hazard Standards
Description: EPA is developing standards that specify the condition and location of
lead-based paint in pre-1978 housing and child-occupied facilities that
can result in exposure to dangerous levels of lead. The regulation also will
specify when lead in household dust and residential soil are at dangerous
levels, and provide objective criteria for identifying hazards in housing.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Jonathan
Jacobson, 202-260-3779
Title: Lead-Based Paint in Housing Disclosure Requirements and Implementation
Description: In March 1996, EPA and HUD issued final regulations implementing the
disclosure requirements mandated under Section 1018 of the Residential
Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992. The regulations
impose obligations on sellers and lessors. These provisions will ensure
that families receive lead hazard information before they buy or rent
housing built before 1978. The new rule recognizes the public's right to
know about potential hazards in the home and options for reducing those
hazards. The Agency is working with national and local media, child and
housing advocates, the real estate community, and local community
leaders to highlight awareness of the issue and the law, and to ensure the
smooth implementation of the rule.
Partners: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and Alliance to
End Childhood Lead Poisoning
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Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Dayton Eckerson,
202-260-1561 or Megan Carroll, 202-260-7269
Title: Redefining Childhood Blood Lead Level Reduction Goals and Lead
Strategic Plan
Description: EPA is revising the Environmental Lead Goals for 2005 based on new
data from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
(NHANES III) Phase II report published in 1997. EPA and the CDC will
evaluate all applicable data.
Partners: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Dana M. Screws,
202-260-1562
Title: Environmental Indicators Bulletin
Description: As part of a series of environmental indicator bulletins, EPA is developing
the Lead in the Environment bulletin. This public outreach document
provides information on the sources of lead in the environment, the state of
human health related lead exposure, and responses taken to reduce lead
exposures.
Contact: Office of Policy, Planning, and Evaluation, Susan Auby, 202-260-4901
Title: National Lead Information Clearinghouse
Description: The National Safety Council, under a cooperative agreement with EPA,
operates the National Lead Information Clearinghouse—a valuable
resource for the public on lead hazards. Parents, homeowners, state and
local officials, and anyone else can speak to a trained lead specialist and
receive answers over the phone, request written materials, or obtain
references to other resources. The Clearinghouse operates in both English
and Spanish and maintains a web site and fax service to better serve the
needs of the public (see Chapter 11).
Partners: U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Georgene
Cooper, 202-260-3904
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Title: Lead Poisoning Prevention and Lead Hazard Awareness Public Educa-
tion and Outreach Grant Program
Description: In 1997, EPA announced a new lead poisoning prevention and lead
hazard awareness public education and outreach grant program. The
purpose of the program is to increase lead-based paint hazard awareness
and promote lead-poisoning prevention to high-risk target audiences.
EPA is particularly interested in supporting projects conducted by smaller
organizations, such as local governments, community groups, and other
specialized non-governmental organizations operating on the local level.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Megan Carroll,
202-260-7269
Title: Lead-Based Paint Maintenance Training Program
Description: EPA and the HUD have developed a lead-safe training program for
building maintenance staff. The training is designed to educate workers
and their supervisors at multi-unit rental properties on techniques to use
during routine maintenance to prevent lead hazards in the buildings they
maintain.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Jack Primack,
202-260-3407
Title: Renovation and Remodeling Study Phases 1 and 2
Description: EPA is conducting a renovation and remodeling study to characterize the
lead levels associated with selected renovation and remodeling activities
and the blood lead levels from a survey of workers who typically engage
in renovation and remodeling.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Darlene Watford,
202-260-3989
Title: Laboratory Study of Lead Cleaning Products
Description: EPA conducted a laboratory study of cleaning products. In the past, EPA
has recommended the use of trisodium phosphate or powdered dish-
washer detergent with a high phosphate content for cleaning dust. Based
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on the study, EPA now recommends cleaning with an all-purpose cleaner
or cleaner made specifically for lead. This recommendation is for cleaning
after a lead-based paint abatement and for regular household cleaning.
One conclusion was that the amount of effort involved in cleaning probably
is more important than the choice of cleaning product.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Ben Lim, 202-
260-1509
Title: Renovation and Remodeling Study Phase 3
Description: EPA is working with the University of Wisconsin to study the relationship
between the incidence of renovation and remodeling activities and
children's blood lead levels. Data has been collected from approximately
3,600 households. Participants were administered an extensive question-
naire by telephone. The primary goal is to determine if there is an associa-
tion between elevated blood lead levels in children and renovation and
remodeling activities in the home. A secondary goal is to examine the
relationship between behavioral characteristics and blood lead levels.
Partners: University of Wisconsin
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Dan Reinhart,
202-260-1585
Title: Guidance for Testing Lead Products
Description: The goal of this project is to develop guidelines and performance characteris-
tics for the testing of lead hazard identification and lead hazard control prod-
ucts by third party organizations. A number of meetings with affected stake-
holders are planned to gather information on how a third party testing program
would work. In the past, EPA has tested lead-related productsby itself.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Darlene Watford,
202-260-3989
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Title: Repair and Maintenance Study
Description: This study examined the effect of different levels of lead-based paint
interventions on dust and children's blood lead levels. The study includes
three intervention groups, a control group of homes built after 1978, and a
group of homes previously abated. The three intervention groups applied
a series of control measures that cost about $ 1,500 per home for the least
intensive intervention, about $3,000 per home for the next level of inter-
vention, and $6,000-7,000 per home for the most expensive intervention.
Reports on the outcome will be published in 1998.
Partners: Kennedy Krieger Research Institute
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Ben Lim, 202-
260-1509
Title: Milwaukee Low-Cost Intervention Studies
Description: In cooperation with the Milwaukee Health Department, EPA is assessing
the effectiveness of in-home visits by trained representatives of the Health
Department and of low-cost abatement methods. The in-home visits
cover hygiene, nutrition, cleaning, and reducing lead exposure, and they
cost approximately $ 100 per visit. The abatement methods include paint
stabilization and window treatments.
Partners: City of Milwaukee Health Department and University of Wisconsin
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Brad Schultz,
202-260-3896
Title: National Lead Laboratory Accreditation Program (NLLAP)
Description: The NLLAP provides a list of laboratories recognized by EPA as being
proficient for analysis of lead in paint, dust, and soil. Two additions to the
NLLAP are planned. First, the proficiency testing part of NLLAP will be
changed to a double-blind system that more closely represents typical
laboratory performance. Second, the NLLAP will be expanded to
include field-portable technologies commonly used to test for lead in
paint, dust, and soil.
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Partners: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention, and U.S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, John Scalera,
202-260-6709
Title: Assessment of the Effectiveness of Risk Assessments
Description: Risk assessments are conducted to identify and control lead hazards. The
purpose of this project is to determine if risk assessments are effective in
identifying hazards that would cause a child to have an elevated blood lead
level.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Susan Dillman,
202-260-5375
Title: CD-ROM Release of Technical Reports
Description: The purpose of this project is to produce and release a CD-ROM copy
of technical lead reports dealing with lead in paint and soil, and some of
the larger data sets associated with those reports. The release of the CD-
ROM will make these reports and data available to a wider audience than
in the past.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Sam Brown,
202-260-2282
Title: Dissemination of Technical Information
Description: EPA has published a substantial number of documents in recent years
on a variety of lead issues. Staff continuously update EPA's lead home
page with current information, publicize available reports, and speak at
professional meetings in order to make the public aware of the available
information.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Ron Morony,
202-260-0282 or John Schwemberger, 202-260-7195
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Title: Evaluating Food Contamination Scenarios in Dietary Exposure
Studies—Child Dietary Lead Study
Description: EPA is conducting a study to examine dietary lead exposure using experi-
mental techniques for determining actual lead intake of children two to
three years of age. The subjects live in New Jersey homes with high
levels of environmental lead. Dietary exposure is being evaluated by
collecting food samples representative of the foods young children eat in
their homes. EPA also is collecting samples of drinking water, dust on
floors, and data on skin exposure, as well as measuring blood lead levels
to evaluate the potential for food to be contaminated during handling and
eating by the child.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Maurice Berry, 513-569-7284
Title: Effects of Lead on Adolescent Development
Description: This study will examine the relationship between blood lead levels and
adolescent development and maturation. Both human and laboratory
studies suggest that relatively low levels of lead exposure may affect the
growth and sexual maturation of the child.
Partners: Indo-U.S. Collaborative Program in Science and Technology
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Gary Kimmel, 202-260-5978
Title: Long-Term Potentiation as a Model System for Cognitive Function
Description: This study utilizes lead as a model compound for establishing methods of
identifying chemicals that can disrupt brain function over the long term by
affecting nerve cell development. Using a biologically-based
dose-response (BBDR) approach, the research will try to establish a
direct link between the many alterations in cell function that accompany
lead exposure and the observed effects of lead on intellectual function in
children.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Elaine Francis, 202-564-6789
Title: The Integrated Exposure Uptake Biokinetic (IEUBK) Model
Description: This project will broaden the usefulness of the IEUBK Model for assess-
ing lead in children. The improved model will provide better estimates of
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lead in blood, bone, and other tissues for children in the first six months of
infancy. The current model does not estimate concentrations in these
tissues until after six months due to a lack of information on the maternal
contribution to fetal lead burdens. The project will incorporate data on the
mobilization of bone-lead during pregnancy and the uptake and distribution
of this lead into fetal tissues.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Robert Elias, 919-541-4167
DisRupiORs
Title: Test Guidelines for Developmental Neurotoxicity
Description: EPA is working with the Organization of Economic Cooperation and
Development to produce an international testing guideline that will evaluate
the effects of prenatal and early post natal exposure to chemicals on the
developing nervous system of laboratory animals.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Susan Makris,
703-305-5222
Title: Test Methodologies for Endocrine Disrupters
Description: The Food Quality Protection Act of 1996 mandates that EPA develop
screening and testing methods for certain kinds of endocrine disrupters.
Supported by the work of the Endocrine Disrupter Screening and Testing
Advisory Committee, EPA is developing screens and tests for the evalua-
tion of potential effects mediated by estrogens, androgens, and thyroid
hormones.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Gary Timm,
202-260-1859
Title: Pollutant-Specific Risk Assessments
Description: EPA is studying pollutant-specific assessments that address risks to
children. Risks under evaluation include exposure to PCBs, environmen-
tal tobacco smoke, and mercury. Researchers also are conducting a
reassessment of dioxin risks to children.
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Contact: Office of Research and Development, Jim Cogliano, 202-260-3814;
Jennifer Jinot, 202-260-8913; Gary Kimmel, 202-260-5978; Sherry
Selevan, 202-260-2604; or Kate Mahaffey, 513-569-7957
Title: The Effects of Pesticides on Reproductive Toxicity
Description: Research on the effects that perinatal exposures to pesticides have on the
function of the reproductive system are being examined. The prolonged
gestation period of rabbits closely approximates the infancy-adolescence
phase in humans. Male rabbits are being evaluated for alterations in
endocrine markers (such as hormone levels), semen (sperm number,
motility and morphology), fertility, and reproductive organ changes.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Gary Klinefelter, 919-541 -5779
Title: Effects of Endocrine Disrupters on Disposition of Testosterone in Adult
and Developing Rats
Description: This proj ect will measure changes in testosterone in rats administered
anti-androgenic chemicals (one form of an endocrine disrupter). Project
results will aid understanding of how anti-androgens affect adolescent and
adult rats.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Teresa Leavens, 919-541 -4431
Title: Mechanisms of Abnormal Reproductive Development Produced by
Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals Administered during Critical Develop-
mental Periods
Description: The purpose of this research is to identify mechanisms of toxicity and to
develop biological models. These models will help to assess the severity
of the risk of endocrine disrupters to human health. Several endocrine
disrupting chemicals that primarily target the reproductive system of
developing and adult animals are under investigation.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Earl Gray, 919-541 -7750 or
WilliamKelce, 919-541-1580
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TMe:
Description:
Contact:
Title:
Description:
Contact:
Effects of Environmental Toxicants on the Steroid Hormone Pathway
This research will characterize the toxic effects of environmental sub-
stances (4-tert-octylphenol, nonylphenol, bisphenol A, phytoestrogens)
on steroid receptors; address differences in age, gender, and target tissue
sensitivities; identify pathways through which toxics alter steroid receptor
function; and demonstrate how such changes relate to altered fertility.
Office of Research and Development, Susan Laws, 9 1 9-54 1-0173
Endocrine Disrupters
EPA Region 5 has initiated several forums to increase the understanding of
endocrine disrupters. Activities include hosting a symposium with national
experts to discuss endocrine disrupters and policy implications for the Great
Lakes Basin; providing presentations about recent research on endocrine
disrupters for tribal representatives, the public, and other regional staff;
including endocrine disrupters as contaminants of concern at Superfund
sites; and funding grants for research on endocrine disrupters.
Region 5, Amy Pelka, 3 12-886-9858 or Lara Pullen, 3 12-886-0138
PCBs ANd DioxiN
Title: Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) and Polychlorinated Benzodifuran
(PCDF) Biomarkers of Risk Assessment in Adolescent Children and
Mothers
Description: This is a comparison study of endocrine and cytochrome biomarkers for
risk assessment of developmental toxicities in humans induced by PCBs
and PCDF. The study will examine effects in mother rats and their sexu-
ally mature adolescents that have been exposed to high levels of PCB/
PCDF since conception. Biomarkers (induction of cytochrome enzymes
and serum levels of endocrine hormones) will be measured in the subjects.
Adverse health impacts on sexual maturation, menstrual cycles, neuro-
behavioral development, and growth will be examined.
Partners: Mississippi State University
Contact: Office of Research and Development, David Reese, 202-564-6919
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Title: Neurotoxicity of PCBs
Description: This project examines the long-term consequences of developmental PCB
exposure in rats. PCB-induced changes in calcium homeostasis in the
brain are being examined as a basis for long-term behavioral effects.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Prasada Kodavanti,
919-541-7584
Title: Developmental Toxiciry of PCBs
Description: This proj ect focuses on examining whether perinatal exposure to PCBs
alters the development of learning and memory behavior in rats. Re-
searchers are studying whether these alterations are associated with
changes in neurotransmitters (chemicals that transmit signals in the brain)
in the central nervous system. The physiology of chemical-induced
thyroid dysfunction also is being investigated.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Christopher Lau, 919-541 -5097
Title: The Ototoxicity of Developmental Exposure to PCBs
Description: This project tests the hypothesis that developmental exposure of rats to
PCBs results in abnormal development of the hearing system. Research-
ers also are studying whether this toxic effect is related to alterations in
thyroid hormone levels.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Kevin Crofton, 919-541 -2672
Title: Toxicokinetics in Pregnant and Lactating Rats
Description: The amount of TCDD, a dioxin, transferred from mothers to fetal tissues
is being assessed in rats in order to understand the effects of dioxin
concentrations on development. Researchers are determining tissue
concentrations following single or continuous exposures, and examining
the possibility of transferring dioxin from mothers to nursing infants
through breast milk.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Linda Birnbaum, 919-541 -2655 or
Christine Hurst, 541-754-4739
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litle:
Description:
Partners:
Contact:
MERCURY
Title:
Description:
Contact:
Title:
Description:
Contact:
Title:
Description:
PCB Compliance Monitoring Cooperative Agreement Funding for States
EPA provides funds to 14 states to carry out PCB compliance monitoring
activities. States make referrals to EPA on potential violations of federal
requirements that require clear identification and marking of PCBs and
proper use and disposal.
State agencies
Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance, JackNeylan, 202-
564-5033 or Karen Taimi, 202-564-5046
Great Lakes Binational Toxics Strategy
This Canada-U.S. strategy seeks to eliminate persistent toxic substances,
such as mercury, PCBs, lead, and dioxins/furans from the Great Lakes
Basin. The strategy sets specific percentage reduction targets for many of
these substances. For example, the strategy calls for a 50 percent reduc-
tion in the use and release of mercury.
Region 5, Elizabeth LaPlante, 312-353-2694
Promulgation of Standards for Municipal Waste Combustion (MWC)
Municipal waste combustors (MWCs) located primarily in urban areas
emit mercury, dioxin, lead, and other pollutants related to developmental
problems and birth defects. EPA's MWC rules of 1995 were struck
down by the courts in December 1996 because of a challenge by a
municipality. However, EPA has filed a petition to vacate a portion of the
rules that were under dispute, allowing the remainder to go into effect.
EPA's action will allow standards applicable to MWC units, representing
87 percent of the capacity in the United States, to remain in effect.
Office of Air and Radiation, Bruce Jordan, 919-541 -5572
Emergency Response
EPA Region 8 has responded to several emergency situations at sites
where children were found playing with mercury. Approximately seven
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children were affected through this type of mercury exposure at two
mobile homes and an apartment during 1993. In each case, Region 8 's
Emergency Response Team helped local officials identify and clean up
areas of contamination. EPA personnel collected air samples, tested
children who had touched or played with the mercury, and disposed of
contaminated materials, personal items, and soils.
Contact: Region 8, Due Nguyen, 3 03 -312-6509
Title: Mercury Neurotoxicity in Children
Description: EPA Region 8 is conducting an outreach proj ect aimed at increasing the
awareness of emergency cleanup personnel, parents, and others about the
risk of mercury exposure. A collaborative effort with the states in Region
8 focuses on identifying and preventing mercury neurotoxicity in children
exposed to mercury vapors in homes. EPA has set standards and coordi-
nated with emergency response personnel in Colorado and Wyoming to
identify children who are overexposed to mercury in homes and are at
risk for mental injury.
Contact: Region 8, Chris Weiss, 3 03 -312-6671
Title: Grand Street Relocation
Description: EPA provided immediate temporary relocation of the residents of a
converted loft building in Hoboken, NJ, when resident families were
exposed to high levels of mercury. The building's former use as a mercury
vapor lamp factory was discovered when mercury began oozing from the
walls and ceilings during residential renovation. Six children were among
the residents; all had elevated mercury levels in their urine. Mercury levels
in all residents, including children, have decreased since relocation.
Contact: Region 2, Marian Olsen, 212-637-4313
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TMe: Pollutants and Neurobehavioral Function in the Czech Republic
Description: This study focuses on determining the relationship between behavioral test
performance in school children and their exposure to pollutants, particu-
larly mercury and arsenic. Elevated mercury levels in the urine of children
have been associated with behavioral problems. Poorer test perfor-
mances were found in children residing in heavily polluted mining areas.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, David Otto, 919-541 -0479
Title: Developmental Biologically-Based Dose-Response (BBDR) Model for
Mercury Vapor
Description: This proj ect focuses on developing a biologically-based dose-response
model for the effects of mercury vapor in rats following developmental
exposure. Biologically-based models describe and quantify the key steps
in cellular, tissue, and organism responses to environmental toxicants.
Changes in prenatal and neonatal nervous systems of rats were found to
be associated with mercury exposure over time. Information gained from
this study will be used to determine nervous system changes in children
exposed to mercury vapor and associated risks.
Partners: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Stanley Barone, Jr., 919-541-3916
Title: Prenatal Developmental Research
Description: EPA is conducting prenatal developmental research to determine age-
related sensitivities and reduce risks to fetuses and children. This research
identifies and quantifies effects to provide data that will be used by the
Agency to assess potential hazards to humans resulting from exposure to
various environmental pollutants. EPA also is evaluating methods for using
data collected in animal studies to predict health outcomes in humans.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Robert!. Kavlock,
919-541-2771
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Title: Perinatal Exposure of Rats to Toxic Chemicals and the Effects on Immune
Function Development
Description: Immune systems in rats are being evaluated at various ages following
perinatal exposure to pesticides or toxic chemicals. Researchers will
determine if developmental exposure to pesticides or toxic chemicals
results in persistent alterations in immune system response.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Ralph Smialowicz, 919-541 -5776
Title: Molecular Mechanisms Common to Toxicant-Induced Neural Injury
Description: This proj ect utilizes nerve cell proteins as indicators of neural damage to
the developing and adult nervous system. Tests have been developed for
localizing nerve cell proteins that are used to assess critical toxic effects on
normal nervous system maturation, such as the growth and development
of new nerve cells, dendrites, and synapses (e.g., neurogenesis, myelino-
genesis, and synaptogenesis).
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Elaine Francis, 202-564-6789
Title: Individual Variability for Neurotoxic Effects
Description: EPA is evaluating how neurotoxic effects vary among individuals within a
sensitive subpopulation, such as children. The results will be used to more
accurately predict risks in children from neurotoxics.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Kenneth Hudnell, 919-541-7866
Title: Environmental Exposures and Human Neurological Function
Description: This project involves the development and testing of neurobehavioral and
electrophysiological tests for evaluating the effects of neurotoxic chemicals
in humans and animals.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Kenneth Hudnell, 919-541-7866
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REfERENCES
1. Bellinger, D., A. Leviton, and C. Waternaux. 1987. Longitudinal Analyses of
Prenatal and Postnatal Lead Exposure and Early Cognitive Development. New
England Journal of Medicine. Volume 316, Pages 1037-1043.
2. Needleman,H.L.,A. Schell,andD. Bellinger. 1990. The Long-Term Effects of
Exposure to Low Doses of Lead in Childhood: 11-Year Follow-Up Report. New
England Journal of Medicine. Volume 322, Pages 83-88.
3. McLaughlin, J.F., R.W. Telzrow, and C.M. Scott. 1980. Neonatal Mercury Vapor
Exposure in an Infant Incubator. Pediatrics. Volume 66, Number 6, Pages 988-990.
4. Maker, E.L.,T.J. Smith, and PL. Landrigan. 1985. The Neurotoxicity of Industrial
Solvents: A Review of the Literature. American Journal of Industrial Medicine.
Volume 8, Pages 207-217.
5. Morgan, D.P. 1989. Recognition and Management of Pesticide Poisonings (4th
Edition). Publication Number EPA 540-9-88-001. U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency.
6. Schardein, J.L. andK.A. Keller. 1989. Potential Human Developmental Toxicants
and the Role of Animal Testing in their Identification and Characterization. CRC
Review and Toxicology. Volume 19, Pages 251-339.
7. NRC. 1993. Pesticides in the Diets of Infants and Children. National Research
Council. Washington, DC: National Academy Press.
8. Needleman, H.L. andC.A. Gatsonis. 1990. Low-Level Lead Exposure and the
IQ of Children: A Meta-Analysis of Modern Studies. Journal of American Medical
Association. Volume263, Pages 673-678.
9. ATSDR. 1993. Toxicological Profile for Arsenic. U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Public Health Service. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
Registry.
10. ATSDR. 1993. Toxicological Profile for Lead. U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Public Health Service. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
Registry.
11. Gilbert, S.G. andK.S. Grant-Webster. 1995. Neurobehavioral Effects of Devel-
opmental Methylmercury Exposure. Environmental Health Perspectives. Volume
103(Suppl. 6), Pages 135-142.
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12. ATSDR. 1993. Case Studies in Environmental Medicine: Lead Toxicity. U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service. Agency for
Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.
13. ATSDR. 1989. Toxicological Profile for PCBs. U. S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Public Health Service. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
Registry.
14. ATSDR. 1994. Toxicological Profile for 4,4'-DDT,4,4'-DDE,4,4'-DDD (Up-
date). U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service.
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.
15. ATSDR. 1997. Healthy Children—Toxic Environments. Report of the Child Health
Workgroup. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health
Service. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.
16. CDC. 1997. Update: Blood Lead Levels—United States, 1991-1994. Morbidity
and Mortality Weekly Report. Volume 46, Number 7, Pages 141 -145.
17. Sargent, J.D., M.J. Brown, J.L. Freeman, A. Bailey, etal. 1995. Childhood Lead
Poisoning in Massachusetts Communities: Its Association with Sociodemographic
and Housing Characteristics. American Journal of Public Health. Volume 85, Pages
528-534.
18. Gemmel, D. 1994. Association of Housing Age and Condition with Blood Lead
Levels. In: Proceedings of the 25th Public Health Conference on Record and
Statistics.
19. USEPA. 1996. Lead Hazard Prevention in Homes: Fact Sheet. Publication
Number EPA 747-F-96-003 .U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of
Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances.
20. ATSDR. 1995. A Case-Control Study to Determine Risk Factors for Elevated
Blood Levels in Children. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public
Health Service, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.
21. Kavlock, R.J. andG.T. Ankley. 1996. A Perspective on the Risk Assessment
Process for Endocrine-Disruptive Effects on Wildlife and Human Health. Risk
Analysis. Volume 16, Pages 731-739.
22. USEPA. 1997. Special Report on Endocrine Disruption: An Effects Assessment
and Analysis. Publication Number EPA 630-R-96-012. U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development.
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23. Kimbrough, R.D. 1995. Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) and Human Health: An
Update. Critical Reviews of Toxicology. Volume 25, Pages 133-163.
24. ATSDR. 1992. Congressional Testimony: Public Health Implications of Dioxins.
Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Agency for Toxic
Substances and Disease Registry.
25. Schantz, S.L. 1996. Developmental Neurotoxicity of PCBs in Humans: What Do
We Know and Where Do We Go from Here? Neurotoxicology and Teratology.
Volume 18, Pages 217-227.
26. Silbergeld, E.K. 1993. Evaluating the Success of Environmental Health Programs in
Protecting the Public's Health. In: Hazardous Waste Conference 1993. Agency for
Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.
27. ATSDR. 1989. Public Health Statement: PCBs. U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Public Health Service, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
Registry.
28. Amler, R.W., D.A. Rice, and B.L. Johnson. 1996. Assessment of Mercury Neu-
rotoxicity through Psychometric and Neurobehavioral Testing. Neurotoxicology.
Volume 17, Pages 237-240.
29. Koos, B.J. andL.D. Longo. 1976. Mercury Toxicity in Pregnant Women, Fetuses,
and Newborn Infants. Obstetrics and Gynecology. Volume 126, Pages 390-409.
30. Mena, L.,O. Meurin, S. Feunzobda, and G.C. Cotzias. 1969. Chronic Manga-
nese Poisoning—Clinical Picture and Manganese Turnover. Neurology. Volume 17,
Pages 128-136.
31. Mena, L.,H. Kazuko, K. Burke, and G.C. Cotzias. 1969. Chronic Manganese
Poisoning—Individual Susceptibility and Absorption of Iron. Neurology. Volume 19,
Pages 1000-1006.
32. USEPA. 1996. National Air Quality and Emissions Trends Report, 1995. Publica-
tion Number EPA 454-R-96-005. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of
Air and Radiation.
33. USEPA. 1997. Report to Congress on Mercury. U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency, Office of Air and Radiation.
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LlApTER 5
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EFFECTS
of
A pesticide is any substance intended to destroy, prevent, or repel pests, such as insects,
weeds, fungi, and rodents. The term pesticide includes numerous types of substances
designed for different purposes. For instance, herbicides kill unwanted plants, fungicides
kill fungi, rodenticides kill rodents, and disinfectants kill microorganisms. Although many
pesticides are synthesized from petroleum, some are derived from natural origins.
Childhood Pesticide Facts
* Children develop leukemia three to nine times more often when pesticides are
used around their homes.(l ,2)
* Brain tumors and other cancers in children have been linked with exposures to
insecticides.(3,4,5)
* EPA estimated that as much as 75 percent of household pesticide use is inside
the home and 22 percent is in yards and gardens.(6)
Pesticides are used widely in the United States, but not without some risk. Depending on
the dose, pesticides may cause a range of harmful health effects and may accumulate in
ecosystems. Among the health effects reported are cancer, acute and chronic injury to the
nervous system, lung damage, reproductive dysfunction, and possibly dysfunction of the
endocrine (hormone) and immune systems.(7,8)
Children are at greater risk of pesticide exposure than most adults. Pound for pound of
body weight, children not only breathe more, eat more, and have a more rapid metabo-
lism than adults, but also they play on the floor and lawn where pesticides are commonly
applied. Children have more frequent hand-to-mouth contact as well.
Children may be exposed to pesticides in their diets, drinking water, and during activities
at home, play, and school. Children may be exposed more heavily to certain pesticides
because they consume a diet different than adults. For instance, children typically con-
sume larger quantities of milk, applesauce, and orange juice per pound of body weight.
This means their exposure to any pesticide residues in these foods may be higher than that
of adults. Children generally are more susceptible than adults to environmental toxics
because they are growing and developing. Also, their enzymatic, metabolic, and immune
systems are immature, allowing in some cases for less natural protection than that of
adults.(9,10)
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Several hundred active ingredients, representing thousands of pesticide products, are
registered with the EPA.( 1 0) Some may cause massive acute poisoning if used improperly.
Others have no obvious immediate effects, but may lead to cancer, nervous system injury,
or immune system damage years or decades after exposure. (10)
EffEds FROM PEsiicidE EXPOSURE
The organophosphate and carbamate insecticides are commonly-used pesticides and are,
therefore, a concern for children. Organophosphate insecticides work by disrupting the ner-
vous system of insects . Unfortunately, they have a similar effect on people, pets, and wildlife.
Exposure to organophosphates inhibits an important enzyme (acetylcholinesterase) found at
many nerve endings. Inhibiting this cholinesterase enzyme can cause excessive nerve stimula-
tion. Pinpoint pupils, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, profuse sweating, and muscle
twitching are common symptoms after exposures to high doses of organophosphate pesti-
cides . Respiratory paralysis and death may occur in severe cases. Repeated exposures may
damage the nervous system.
Carbamate insecticides are very similar to the organophosphates, but the acute effects are
usually reversible.(8,l 1) For this reason, carbamate insecticides often are used instead of
organophosphates. Delayed adverse effects to the nervous system have not been docu-
mented with the newer carbamate chemicals.
In recent years, scientists have become concerned that certain chemicals, including a few
pesticides, might be disrupting the endocrine systems of humans and wildlife. Scientists
also have proposed that endocrine disruption might result in cancer and harm to the
reproductive system and thyroid glands. (8, 12) EPA activities related to endocrine disrup-
ters are described in Chapter 4 Developmental and Neurological Effects .
Pesticides may present a threat to the health of children because of their wide-spread use, high
toxicity and possible misuse by uninformed, inexperienced homeowners and professionals.
Some active ingredients in pesticides have been shown to cause birth defects, cancer, and
thyroid disease in rats and mice . Supposedly inert ingredients in any pesticide product may
include solvents, diesel fuel, or other petroleum products that also may be toxic to exposed
children.(9,10,ll)
PossiblE ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
DiETARy EXPOSURES
Infants and children may be exposed to trace amounts of pesticides in food and in breast
milk. EPA regulates trace amounts of pesticides, termed "residues," in food through a
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system of standards called "food tolerances." A tolerance is a legal limit on the amount of
pesticide in a particular food. In the past, the amount of pesticide predicted to be consumed
was based on the behavior and diet of an average adult American rather than on the special
susceptibility, diet, and behavior of children.( 10,11) For over a decade, however, assess-
ments of pesticide residues in the diet has included other age groups, including children under
one year of age and one to six years of age. Also in the past, EPA considered the effects of
each pesticide in isolation rather than recognizing that people, and especially children, often
are exposed to many pesticide residues at the same time. This practice has changed in light
of the requirements of the 1996 Food Quality Protection Act.
Certain agricultural chemicals, particularly herbicides, have been detected in ground water
in some areas of the country. (13,14) As aresult, children and others maybe exposed to
pesticides through their drinking water. Although insecticide use in the United States has
decreased in recent years, herbicide use has increased dramatically. Certain herbicides
have been associated with cancer, particularly soft tissue sarcoma and non-Hodgkin's
lymphoma in animal studies. Fungicides also may be toxic, and some have been linked to
cancer.( 15) They are used extensively on fruits and vegetables, many of which are eaten in
larger quantities by children than adults.
Each year children accidentally ingest pesticides as a result of careless storage or handling.
EPA receives an average of 24,000 pesticide hotline calls each year, two-thirds of which
are from parents concerned about pesticide risks to their children.
DERMA! ANd AinboRNE EXPOSURES
Pesticides are used extensively in homes, apartments, schools, daycare centers, and
public buildings to control cockroaches and other pests. In the home, flea bombs,
insecticide sprays, and foggers are the primary sources of exposure to children. The
pesticide chlordane, banned by the EPA for termite control because of its cancer-causing
potential, was used for many years in basements and around foundations of homes and
other buildings. Because it persists in the environment for decades, children may remain
at risk in areas where this pesticide was used.( 16,17) Lawn-care pesticides also are a
major source of childhood exposure. Children not only contact these pesticides while
playing outside, but also track them inside.
Children living on or near farms or pesticide manufacturing facilities may be exposed to
pesticides in the air. Children also may be exposed to pesticides through contaminated
shoes and clothing if their parents work in agriculture or with pesticides. Occupational
and household pesticide exposures of parents have been associated with increased risks
for acute nonlymphoblastic leukemia in their children.(l)
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Finally, children may come into contact with pesticide residues from pest treatment of
school buildings and classrooms. Because of health concerns and costs, schools are trying
to reduce pesticide use through new pest-control methods. The use of integrated pest
management strategies, encouraged by EPA, offer alternatives to and reduction in chemical
pesticide use.
SUMMARY of EPA AcrivmEs
A 1993 National Academy of Sciences report Pesticides in the Diets of Infants and
Children concluded that the scientific and regulatory approaches in effect at that time did
not adequately protect infants and children from pesticide residues in food. (9) The Acad-
emy called on EPA to make significant changes: to identify pesticide exposures, analyze the
potential for harmful health effects, and use these data to determine actual risks. The
Academy report provided a major challenge to EPA to improve the safety of the food
supply and provide greater assurance that children are protected.
EPA Administrator Carol Browner responded to the Academy report with the announce-
ment of a national policy to consistently and explicitly take into account health risks to
children and infants from environmental hazards when assessing environmental risks. In
1996, Congress passed the Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA) to provide further
protection to children (See box on following page).
EPA is committed to ensuring the safety of the foods children eat by: (1) reducing the use
of high-risk pesticides, (2) increasing the research and testing needed to learn more about
children's exposure to pesticides in food, (3) working with the states to assure compliance
with existing pesticide laws and regulations, and (4) establishing new standards to protect
children and infants from dietary exposures to pesticides. EPA also is expanding its study
of the effects of pesticides on the neurological, endocrine, and immune systems of children.
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FQPA Reforms on Pesticides
* Strengthen health-based standards to limit risks of pesticide exposure to children.
* Require an additional safety factor in setting standards to protect the health of unborns
andnewborns.
* Require consideration of all sources of pesticide exposure, such as diet and drinking water, and
the cumulative effects of pesticide residues when determining health risks to children.
* Expand consumers' right-to-know about pesticide risks to children.
To reduce the use of the most dangerous pesticides, EPA is working with other govern-
ment agencies on integrated pest management techniques. The purpose of this program is
to ensure the availability of cost-effective alternatives for agricultural growers, utilities, and
other groups. Toward this end, EPA is hastening the movement of safer pesticides onto
the market.
EPA assesses the dietary risk to infants and children when registering and re-registering
uses of pesticides on foods. The Agency is developing better methods to assess pesticide
exposures. EPA also is working with the Department of Health and Human Services
(HHS) and the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to design new surveys to improve
knowledge of what infants and children eat. The USDA, in partnership with several state
laboratories, conducts an annual survey of residues of pesticides in foods (the Pesticide
Data Program, or POP). The foods that are sampled are those most often eaten by chil-
dren. The sampled pesticides are those commonly used on the foods eaten by children.
EPA, USDA, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are working with the Na-
tional Food Processors Association and other private sector groups to develop a National
Pesticide Residue Database. This database will contain PDP and other residue data EPA
will use to develop more accurate estimates of pesticide residues in food. EPA is devel-
oping methods for estimating pesticide exposures and risks from multiple sources, such as
food, drinking water, and household pesticides. The Agency also has developed a new
method for assessing acute exposures to pesticides.
A new Consumer Labeling Initiative will expand the amount of hazard and health informa-
tion on pesticide labels, similar to the new food nutrition labels. EPA is working with the
Consumer Product Safety Commission, FDA, key industry groups, parents, and health
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professionals to implement this program. EPA also provides numerous publications and public-
service announcements to increase public awareness of the dangers to children from careless
handling and other misuses of pesticides.
SuppORT FOR llNTEqRATEd PEST MANAqEMENT
Pesticides are useful to society because of their ability to kill disease-causing organisms
and control insects, weeds, and other pests. However, they need to be managed to
protect people and the environment. EPA, which has the lead responsibility for regulating
pesticides in the United States, supports an integrated pest management (IPM) approach.
The overall goals of IPM are to minimize pesticide use, choose those pesticides that are
least toxic to people and the environment, and increase the use of non-chemical ap-
proaches, such as good housekeeping and preventive maintenance. IPM has been suc-
cessfully adopted by many school districts across the country.
ExpANckd ENFORCEMENT EffoRTs
EPA and state pesticide agencies cooperate to ensure that pesticide users, manufacturers,
producers, dealers, and the rest of the regulated community follow the pesticide laws and
regulations. This cooperation includes issuing enforcement actions in response to viola-
tions, some of which may endanger children. For instance, EPA and several state agencies
are responding to a series of incidents in urban and other residential communities involving
illegal application of methyl parathion. Methyl parathion is approved only for use outdoors
as an agricultural pesticide, but was used illegally in homes and businesses mainly to
control cockroaches.
The Urban and Residential Pesticide Control and Enforcement Program provides guidance
to state agencies to help identify, halt, and prevent the illegal use of pesticides indoors. The
program also attempts to facilitate cooperation between state enforcement agencies, public
health officials, and other local organizations.
Risks TO ChildREN's
EPA will require pesticide and chemical manufacturers to conduct new tests to assess
potential toxic effects of pesticides on reproduction and development and on the immune
and nervous systems. EPA has proposed updated guidelines for assessing the risks of
cancer causing substances. It also recently issued guidelines for assessing potential neuro-
toxic effects in humans, including children.
EPA is expanding its research program on pesticides in children. Scientists are surveying
children's exposures to pesticides through air, water, food, and house dust in schools,
daycare facilities, and other places children may encounter pesticides. Researchers are
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studying children's activity patterns and examining how the health effects of pesticides
differ for children and adults. They are especially interested in how pesticide effects differ
at critical periods of neurological and immunological development.
Title:
Description:
Contact:
EPA PROJECTS ON HEAlih EffECis of
STANdARds ANd BETTER Public
Pesticide Re-Registration Program
Through the re-registration program, EPA is reviewing human health and
environmental effects data and making re-registration eligibility decisions
on all active pesticide ingredients registered before November 1,1984.
All registered pesticides must meet the new safety standards of the 1996
Food Quality Protection Act. Under this law, EPA must conclude with
"reasonable certainty" that "no harm" will come to infants and children or
any other individuals exposed to pesticides. Pesticide exposure from
food, drinking water, home, garden, and all other sources must be consid-
ered in determining allowable levels of pesticides in food. As a result of
this law, all pesticide tolerances are being reassessed as part of the
re-registration program.
Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Carol Stangel,
703-308-8007
Title: Pesticides: Food Safety
Description: EPA Region 5 frequently provides information to the public regarding
pesticide residues in food. This includes general information on why
pesticides are needed, ways to reduce the residue remaining on fresh
fruits and vegetables, pesticide-specific data, and specific food tolerances.
Region 5 provides bulletins to help educate the public on food safety
particularly the FQPA provisions for infants and children.
Contact: Region 5, John Ward, 312-886-5220
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TMe: Great Lakes Binational Toxics Strategy: Virtual Elimination of Persistent
Toxic Substances
Description: The Great Lakes Binational Toxics Strategy targets certain persistent, toxic
substances, including six banned pesticides, for elimination from the Great
Lakes Basin. Although these pesticides are no longer used in the United
States, they are still being released into the global environment where they
may cause harm. The strategy seeks to find the remaining sources and
releases affecting the basin and virtually eliminate them. The targeted
pesticides are DDT, chlordane, mirex, toxaphene, and aldrin/dieldrin.
Contact: Region 5, Elizabeth LaPlante, 312-353-2694
Title: Pesticide Safety for Agricultural Workers and Their Families
Description: Under EPA's Worker Protection Standard, farm workers must receive
pesticide safety training prior to working in the fields. Workers learn about
the potential dangers of field-applied pesticides. Since the standard was
published in 1992, EPA Region 5 has performed extensive outreach on
agricultural safety and has assisted in the development and approval of
education tools for states and safety trainers to relay pesticide safety
messages to farm workers. Region 5 also has performed general pesticide
safety outreach and offered training to rural primary health care providers.
Partners: States and local health care organizations
Contact: Region 5, Don Baumgartner, 312-886-7835
Title: National Pesticide Telecommunications Network (NPTN)
Description: NPTN is a national toll-free telephone information service that provides
poisoning prevention and technical information on pesticide active ingredi-
ents and product registrations in the United States. Callers receive infor-
mation, such as:
• Emergency human and animal treatment
• First aid and safety tips
• State health and agricultural contacts
• Poison Control Centers
• Product labeling
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• Toxicology
• Cleanup and disposal
• Regulation of pesticides
• Referrals for pesticide incident investigations and laboratory analyses
• Training in the recognition and management of pesticide poisonings
Partners: Oregon State University
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Frank Davido,
703-305-7576
Title: Poison Prevention
Description: Accidental poisoning from pesticide chemicals in and around the home
remains a serious threat to children. EPA is an active member of the
Poison Prevention Council and annually distributes thousands of fact
sheets on pesticides and child safety to medical establishments and the
general public. As a result of the Poison Prevention Week outreach in
1995, EPA sent a poison prevention message to 3.5 million television
viewers.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Carol Stangel,
703-308-8007
SuppORT FOR llNTEqRATEd PEST MANAqEMEINT
Title: Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom Program
Description: With EPA support, the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture and Okla-
homa State University have developed a curriculum for grades K-4 on
pesticide management in the classroom. The program, which has been
distributed to all elementary schools in Oklahoma City, emphasizes
Integrated Pest Management (IPM), safe pesticide use, and food safety.
Partners: Oklahoma Department of Agriculture and Oklahoma State University
Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources
Contact: Region 6, Jerry Oglesby, 214-665-7563
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TMe: Texas Structural Pest Control Board IPM in Schools Program
Description: The Texas Structural Pest Control Board (TSPCB) developed a pilot
program to assist school districts in developing IPM policies. The TSPCB
representatives visit the districts to explain regulations, provide resource
materials, and review existing policies and practices. The pilot involves 16
school districts of various sizes. The goal of the program is to provide
economical and effective pest control while reducing the risks posed to
children's health. Utilization of IPM practices is a state legislative mandate.
Partners: Texas Structural Pest Control Board
Contact: Region 6, Jerry Oglesby, 214-665-7563
Title: Integrated Pest Management in Schools Proj ect
Description: Through a cooperative agreement, EPA is funding the IPM Project for
schools in the Monroe County Community School Corporation
(MCCSC). Most MCCSC schools spray for common pests on a
monthly schedule. MCCSC eliminated 90 percent of applications in three
elementary schools. The cooperative agreement funds will be used to
expand this program in all 18 MCCSC schools.
Partners: National Foundation for Integrated Pest Management
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Anne Leslie,
703-308-8727
Title: Sustainable Reduction of Cockroaches and Rodents in Inner-City Dwellings
Using IPM Techniques
Description: This project seeks to demonstrate the effectiveness of IPM techniques to
reduce or eliminate pesticide use and cockroach and rodent infestations in
inner-city apartments. Simple IPM techniques that may be learned and
used effectively by residents are sustainable and create a healthy indoor
environment for children.
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001
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Title: Educational Photo Literature for Integrated Pest Management in a
Low-Income Setting
Description: IPM techniques to reduce cockroach and rodent infestations in inner-city
housing (currently being demonstrated in EPA Region 2) will be outlined
in community-based educational literature. Each community will learn
about pest infestations and their association with asthma, methods for
teaching people about IPM, methods for conducting IPM, and the
production of photo literature. This program is being implemented in the
Hunts Point community of South Bronx, NY.
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-63 7-4001
Title: English/Spanish Video on Integrated Pest Management Techniques to
Reduce Cockroaches and Rodents in Inner-City Dwellings
Description: EPA provided funding to Rutgers University to produce English and Spanish
language versions of a video on integrated pest management in the home. A
disproportionately high cockroach infestation is often found in low-income,
minority communities, and especially in inner-city buildings. Asthma inci-
dence and pesticide exposure are linked with cockroach infestations.
Partners: Environmental Sciences Training Center at Rutgers University
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-63 7-4001
Title: New Jersey S chools and Pesticides
Description: The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Pesticide
Control Program (NJDEP/PCP) mailed a letter and survey to all schools
(over 2,000) in New Jersey to promote the use of IPM practices instead
of routine chemical applications. The survey will be used to develop an
IPM strategy.
Contact: Region 2, Adrian Enache, 732-321 -4424
Title: Cornell University Non-Ag Sector IPM Program
Description: Cornell University started a program approximately three years ago to
promote IPM in the non-agricultural sector. The program, which started
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with schools, examines both interior and exterior pesticide uses. Pilot
projects demonstrate IPM concepts. Outreach material is distributed to
all area school districts.
Region 2, Audrey Moore, 732-906-6809
ExpANckd ENFORCEMENT EffoRis
Title: Urban and Residential Pesticide Control and Enforcement Program—A
National Initiative
Description: This national program addresses the illegal use of highly toxic agricultural
pesticides indoors in residential dwellings and commercial businesses, such
as daycare centers. Comprehensive guidanceis provided to state agencies
for identifying, halting, and preventing the illegal diversion of agricultural
pesticides into residential areas. States that receive EPA funds are asked to
identify communities at risk, conduct inspections of commercial establish-
ments with a high probability of agricultural pesticide misuse, and investigate
applicators who may be misusing these pesticides. The program encourages
outreach activities to educate residents concerning proper pest control and
potential dangers of using bootleg pesticides. The states and EPA pursue
enforcement actions when needed. EPA provides regulatory oversight as
well as technical assistance to the states for investigation and enforcement
actions. The national program was developed by the Office of Enforcement
and Compliance Assurance in cooperation with Regions 4 and 5.
Partners: State agencies
Contact: Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance, Mary McDonnell,
202-564-4173 or Carl Eichenwald, 202-564-4036; Region 4, Carter
Williamson, 404-562-9003; Region 5, Phyllis Reed, 312-886-6018
Title: Methyl Parathion Outreach Proj ect
Description: Misuse of methyl parathion indoors has been reported in numerous states.
EPA issued a nationwide alert to consumers through the Agency for Toxic
Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). EPA is working with the
pesticide supplier to recall all methyl parathion products, add a stenching
agent to give the products an offensive odor, package all products in
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containers that may be tracked by retailers, and inform the public about
the dangers of misusing pesticides indoors.
Partners: ATSDR and state agencies
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Claire Gesalman,
703-308-3260
Title: Methyl Parathion Investigation
Description: EPA Region 5 is working with a number of state and local health and
environmental agencies to determine the extent of the illegal use of the
highly toxic insecticide methyl parathion in the Chicago area. The Agency
is conducting community outreach and testing. Homes illegally sprayed
with this pesticide are being cleaned up under a multi-agency health and
safety procedure.
Partners: City of Chicago and State of Illinois
Contact: Region 5, Don de Blasio, 312-886-4360
Title: Example of Illegal Pesticide Use Case
Description: A Mississippi pesticide applicator was sentenced to six and one-half
years in prison on a 45-count conviction for knowingly spraying methyl
parathion without a license and distributing the substance in violation of
the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. This is the
longest consecutive imprisonment ever handed down in a case involving a
strictly environmental violation. A codefendant received a similar sen-
tence. The defendants applied the agricultural pesticide to residences and
a variety of commercial facilities, including daycare centers.
Partners: Federal Bureau of Investigation and State of Mississippi
Contact: Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance, Martin Topper,
202-564-2564
Title: Tropical Fruits Enforcement Case
Description: Operators of an agricultural facility in Guayanilla, Puerto Rico, regularly
applied pesticides, such as Malathion, Supracide-2E, Captan 50, and
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Dithane F-45, to agricultural crops. These pesticides drifted or migrated
into an adjacent housing complex for low-income families. Children have
shown symptoms consistent with pesticide exposure, although a causal link
has not been established. EPA ordered the operators of the facility to
cease all pesticide applications and develop a comprehensive plan for any
future application, which EPA would oversee.
Contact: Region 2, Jose Font, 212-637-6951
Title: Example of Enforcement Case in Antimicrobials Program
Description: Under federal law, public health claims of products containing pesticides
cannot be made for any products distributed or sold unless the products
have been approved and registered by EPA or have been granted an
exemption. EPA reached an enforcement agreement with Hasbro, Inc.
that prevents the manufacturer of Playskool toys from claiming that toys
treated with an antibacterial pesticide protect children from infectious
diseases caused by bacteria. Labels and ads for the toy suggested that the
treatment protects kids from health risks, when in fact it protects only the
plastic in the toy.
Contact: Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance, Mark Garvey, 202-
564-4 1 68 or Brenda Mosley, 202-564-4 1 74
Risks TO ChildREixi's
\Title: Dietary Exposure Models and Related Databases to Estimate Exposure to
Chemical Residues
Description: The Dietary Exposure Potential Model (DEPM) provides estimates of
pesticide exposure in the diet by linking food consumption with residue
information. The model incorporates available information from nationwide
surveys of food consumption, food intake surveys on individuals in specific
demographic subgroups, and national food chemical residue measurements.
EPA is modifying the model to improve its usefulness for infants and children.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Maurice Berry, 513-569-7284
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Title: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES)
Description: NHANES, conducted by the National Center for Health Statistics
(NCHS), is designed to assess the health and nutritional status of a
statistically representative sample of the U.S. population. It includes
information on active and passive smoking; respiratory function tests;
blood, urine, and hair sample tests for the presence of various toxic
substances; and house dust tests for lead. The survey utilizes extensive
questionnaires and standardized physical examinations. NCHS and EPA
will collect data for the NHANES-4 version that details health, medical,
and nutritional information on children.
National Center for Health Statistics
Office of Research and Development, Sue Perlin, 202-260-5877
Partners:
Contact:
Title:
Description:
Exposure of Children to Pesticides in Yuma County Arizona
EPA will survey pesticide use by families of 300 children in low-income
Hispanic communities. One hundred families will be selected and various
samples taken to determine the level of pyrethroids and organophos-
phates in their homes. Samples will be taken from air, dust, surfaces, and
children's hands to provide a comprehensive assessment of multiple
pesticide exposures.
Office of Research and Development, Chris Saint, 202-260-1093
Measuring and Apportioning Children's Exposure to Pesticides in Urban,
Suburban, and Rural Communities
The purpose of this study is to compare pesticide exposure data on
children based on where they live. Researchers will measure total expo-
sure (including all important exposure pathways to selected pesticides) for
a sample of children living in inner-city, suburban, and rural neighborhoods
of Minnesota and determine the relative contributions of important pesti-
cide sources. The data will be obtained from questionnaires; skin contact
measurements; and monitoring of air, water, food, house dust, outside soil,
urine, and blood.
Partners: Minnesota Department of Health
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Chris Saint, 202-260-1093
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TMe: Pesticide Exposure of Young Children in Minnesota
Description: In collaboration with the Minnesota Department of Health, children and
their households will be screened for pesticide use. The purpose is to
identify children highly exposed to pesticides in an urban setting, and
determine the routes and sources of exposure. The study includes a
survey of residential pesticide use, information on indoor exposure (air,
skin, diet), environmental concentrations (air, surfaces), biomarkers
(urine), and activity patterns (questionnaire, diary, observation).
Partners: Minnesota Department of Health
Contact: Office of Research and Development, James Quackenboss,
702-798-2442
Title: Total Organophosphorus Pesticide Exposure among Children in Urban
and Rural Environments
Description: This one-year study in Washington State will characterize the variability in
total organophosphate pesticide exposure in children based on location,
time, age, and gender. The goal is to determine the relative contributions
of different environmental sources of organophosphate pesticides to the
amount of pesticide in children's bodies. The study will account for all
exposure pathways (diet, air, skin, house dust).
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Chris Saint, 202-260-1093
Title: Children's Exposure to Pesticides in the Agriculture Health Study (AHS)
Description: This is a study of the relationship between pesticide exposure and the rates
of cancer and non-cancer diseases in 250 licensed pesticide applicators,
50 spouses, and 50 children in Iowa and North Carolina. Pesticide
applicators and their families will be selected randomly within each group
of interest. Pesticide exposure will be monitored using personal monitoring
procedures. The results of the study will be used in characterizing pesti-
cide exposures to families, defining cancer and non-cancer exposure-
response relationships, and identifying methods to reduce the risks of
pesticide poisoning.
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Partners: National Cancer Institute and National Institute of Environmental Health
Sciences
Contact: Office of Research and Development, David Mage, 919-541 -1327
Title: Pesticides in Young Children Study in Border States
Description: Research will be conducted in Arizona, California, New Mexico, and
Texas as part of the Environmental Health on the US-Mexico Border
program. The study includes a review of existing environmental pesticide
exposure and health data. Researchers will identify exposure indicators
or biomarkers in body fluids, and screen infants and children under five
years old for evidence of pesticide exposure. Children classified as
subject to "high exposures" will receive more extensive monitoring.
Partners: States of Arizona, California, New Mexico, and Texas
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Brian Schumacher, 702-798-2242
Title: The Effects of Pesticides on the Immune System and Allergic Response
Description: Researchers are examining the impact of exposure to pesticides on the
development of allergies to house dust mites in adult and young animals.
The hypotheses being tested are that pesticide exposure promotes
development of allergic sensitization, and that this effect is greater in young
than in mature rodents. Measures of allergic sensitization include immune
parameters, lung inflammation, and pulmonary hyper-reactivity.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Mary Jane Selgrade,
919-541-2657
Title: The Biochemical Effects of Pesticides on the Central Nervous System
Description: This research will determine if the adverse effects of exposure to pesticides,
such as organophosphates and carbamates, in young rats during develop-
ment of the central nervous system (CNS) are different from the adverse
effects of exposure in adults. In the body, these pesticides block an impor-
tant enzyme, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), found at many nerve endings.
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Blocking the activity of this enzyme may cause excessive nerve excitement.
Age-related changes in this enzyme's activity in blood and tissues and CNS
development in young and adult animals will be examined.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Stanley Barone, Jr., 919-541-3916
Title: The Effects of Pesticides on Learning and Memory
Description: This project will determine if perinatal exposure to pesticides, such as the
organophosphates and carbamates, produces persistent effects on learning
and memory in young animals and whether these effects are different from
those produced by comparable exposure in adult animals. Also the
project will study possible mechanisms for these effects, including changes
in neurotransmitter levels.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Robert MacPhail, 919-541-7833
Title: Neurochemical Changes and Behavioral Effects Induced by Pesticides
Description: Cognitive and neurotransmitter effects of pesticides on memory and learning
will be compared in young and adult rodents. Immediate and long-term
effects will be assessed and changes in behavioral measures will be
evaluated.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Mark Stanton, 919-541 -7783
Title: Neurotoxicity of Cholinesterase-Inhibiting Pesticides
Description: The objective of this research is to determine the effects of pesticides that
block acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in animals of different ages and gen-
ders. Chemical-specific effects on blood AChE levels, and toxic effects
elicited by anti-AChE pesticides as a function of age and gender, are being
examined in rodents.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Stephanie Padilla, 919-541 -3 956
Title: Neurobehavioral Characterization of Susceptible Populations and Pesti-
cide Neurotoxicity
Description: Researchers are comparing the behavioral and biochemical effects of
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cholinesterase-inhibiting pesticides on male and female rats at ages
representing those of human toddlers, preadolescents, and young adults.
Researchers also will try to determine the mechanisms responsible for the
observed effects and track any changes that persist or develop later in life.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Ginger Moser, 919-541 -5075
Title: Age-Related Sensitivity to Cholinesterase-inhibiting Pesticides
Description: Specific biological factors that may be responsible for differences in the
sensitivity of young versus adult animals to cholinesterase-inhibiting
pesticides will be identified. Once identified, factors contributing to the
different age sensitivities will be applied to predict human toxic responses.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Stephanie Padilla, 919-541-3956
Title: Organophosphate Insecticide Exposure from Pets Treated with Flea
Control Insecticides
Description: This study will assess the amount of residues of organophosphate insecti-
cides available for transfer to children from dogs treated for fleas with
either a dip or a collar. The study will determine the potential exposure of
children who play with, touch, and spend large amounts of time with pets.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Chris Saint, 202-260-1093
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REfERENCES
1. Buckley, J.D., L.L. Robison, R. Swotinsky, D.H. Garabrant, M. LeBeau, P.
Manchester, M.E. Nesbit, L. Odom, J.M. Peters, W.G. Woods, and G.D.
Hammond. 1989. Occupational Exposures of Parents of Children with Acute
Nonlymphocytic Leukemia: A Report from the Children's Cancer Study Group.
Cancer Research. Volume 49, Pages 4030-4037.
2. Lowengart, R.A., J.M. Peters, C. Cicioni,J. Buckley, L. Bernstein, S. Preston-
Martin, and E. Rappaport. 1987. Childhood Leukemia and Parents' Occupation and
Home Exposures. Journal ofNational Cancer Institute. Volume 79, Pages 39-46.
3. David, J.R., R.C. Browonson,R. Garcia, B.J. Bentz,andA. Turner. 1993.
Family Pesticide Use and Childhood Brain Cancer. Archive of Environmental Con-
tamination and Toxicology. Volume 24, Pages 87-92.
4. Gold, E., L. Gordis, J. Tonascia, and M. Szklo. 1979. Risk Factors for Brain
Tumors in Children. American Journal of Epidemiology. Volume 109, Pages 309-319.
5. Olshan, A.F.,N.E. Breslow, J.M. Falletta, S. Grufferman, T. Pendergrass, L.L.
Waskerwitz, W.G. Woods, T.J. Vietti,andG.D. Hammond. 1993. Risk Factors
for Wilm's Tumor: Report from the National Wilm's Tumor Study. Cancer. Volume
72, Pages 938-944.
6. Whitmore, R.W., J.E. Kelly, and PL. Reading. 1992. Executive Summary, Results,
and Recommendations. In: The National Home and Garden Pesticide Survey, Volume
1. Publication Number RTI/5100/17-0 IF. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
7. Zahm, S.H. andS.S. Devesa. 1995. Childhood Cancer: Overview of Incidence
Trends and Environmental Carcinogens. Environmental Health Perspectives. Volume
103 (Supplement 6), Pages 177-184.
8. Goldman, L.R. 1995. Children—Unique and Vulnerable: Environmental Risks
Facing Children and Recommendations for Response. Environmental Health Per-
spectives. Volume 103 (Supplement 6), Pages 13-18.
9. NRC. 1993. Pesticides in the Diets of Infants and Children. National Research
Council. Washington, DC: National Academy Press.
10. USEPA. 1996. Office of Pesticide Programs Annual Report for 1996. Publication
Number, EPA 73 5-R-96-001. U. S. Environmental Protection Agency.
11. Longnecker, M.P., WJ. Rogan,andG. Lucier. 1997. The Human Health Effects of
DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane) and PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls) and an
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Overview of Organochlorines in Public Health. Annual Review of Public Health.
Volume 18, Pages 211-244.
12. Kavlock, R.J. andG.T. Ankley. 1996. A Perspective on the Risk Assessment
Process for Endocrine-Disruptive Effects on Wildlife and Human Health. Risk
Analysis. Volume 16, Pages 731-739.
13. USEPA. Undated. Drinking Water and Health Fact Sheet on Atrazine. U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Water.
14. EXTOXNET. 1993. Atrazine. Extension Toxicology Network. National Agricul-
tural Pesticide Impact Assessment Program. Cooperative Extension Offices of
Cornell University Michigan State University, Oregon State University, and Univer-
sity of California at Davis.
15. Zahm, S.H. and A. Blair. 1993. Carcinogenic Risks from Pesticides. In: 1992
Accomplishments in Cancer Research (Fortner, J.G. and I.E. Rhoads, Editors).
General Motors Cancer Research Foundation. Philadelphia: Lippincott. Pages
266-279.
16. ATSDR. 1994. Toxicological Profile for Chlordane (Update). U.S. Department
of Health and Human Services, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.
17. EXTOXNET. 1993. Chlordane. Extension Toxicology Network. National
Agricultural Pesticide Impact Assessment Program. Cooperative Extension Offices
of Cornell University, Michigan State University, Oregon State University and
University of California at Davis.
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Risks FROM
CoiNTAMiNATEd WATER
iAl WATERb>ORNE Risks
Children's exposure to waterborne contaminants can occur when eating contaminated
fish, consuming contaminated drinking water, or swimming in contaminated oceans, lakes,
or streams. Disease-causing organisms in sewage-contaminated water can result in
hepatitis, dysentery, gastrointestinal illness, fever, ear infections, and other health prob-
lems. Also bodies of water and their sediments can be contaminated with toxic sub-
stances, such as polychlorinatedbiphenyls (PCBs) and metals like arsenic, mercury, lead,
and chromium. These contaminants are thought to contribute to serious health problems,
such as cancer, birth defects, nervous system damage, respiratory system disease, burns,
and skin irritations.(l ,2,3,4,5)
Hundreds of beaches are closed each summer because of contamination from untreated
sewage and other sources. In 1995, more than 3,500 beaches in the United States
posted warning signs or closed for at least one day due to bacteriological or other types
of contamination. The most frequent sources of harmful microbes are fecal contamination
from sewer overflows, water treatment plant malfunctions, and storm water runoff.
Surface waters and their sediments also can be contaminated by toxic chemicals, such as
PCBs and heavy metals.(6)
Children and women of childbearing age may be at increased risk compared to other
subpopulations. Compared to adults, children are at increased risk to bacterial and viral
infections because they play in the water for longer periods, tend to have more cuts and
scrapes, and may accidentally swallow more water than adults. Women exposed to high
levels of PCBs or mercury during pregnancy may give birth to children with delayed
development and learning disabilities. Fish are an important part of a healthy diet. How-
ever, some fish caught for sport or subsistence may contain chemicals that could pose
health risks if eaten too often.
Pollutants, such as PCBs and mercury that accumulate (or bioaccumulate) in increasing
amounts in the tissues offish, birds, animals, and humans, are of great concern because of
the potential for high exposures. Eating fish containing certain chemical pollutants may
cause birth defects, liver damage, cancer, and other serious health problems. These
pollutants may pose special risks to a developing fetus, nursing infant, and young child
when they or their mothers eat contaminated fish.(7)
Tap water that meets federal and state standards generally is safe to drink. However,
some contaminants of potential concern are not currently regulated. Threats to drinking
water quality and quantity are increasing. These emerging problems need attention and
are the object of extensive federal, state, and local efforts.
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All drinking water contains some naturally occurring chemical contaminants, which are
usually not harmful at low levels. Actual events of serious drinking water contamination are
infrequent, and typically are not at levels posing acute health concerns. In 1994, only eight
percent of community drinking water systems reported a violation of the total coliform
(bacteria) standard in drinking water.(8) Generally, these standards are established based
on a lifetime of exposure, therefore, one violation poses a limited health risk.
When microbiological and chemical contaminants enter water supplies, their potential
effects include gastrointestinal illness, skin irritations, cancer, reproductive and develop-
mental problems, and other health effects. Microbiological contaminants are of greater
concern because they may cause immediate health threats, such as gastrointestinal ill-
ness.(9,10) Frequently occurring microbial contaminants include the Norwalk virus,
Cryptosporidium, and Giardia. The effects of contaminated drinking water are illustrated
by localized outbreaks of waterborne disease. Most of these outbreaks have been linked
to contamination by bacteria, protozoa, or viruses, probably from human or animal waste.
For example, in 1993 and 1994, there were 30 reported disease outbreaks associated
with drinking water: 23 associated with public drinking water supplies; and seven with
private wells.(9,10) In 1993, the water treatment plant in Milwaukee became ineffective
during a period of heavy rainfall and storm water runoff, and hundreds of thousands of
Milwaukee residents became ill from drinking water contaminated by the microbe
Cryptosporidium. Over 4,000 persons were hospitalized, and over 50 died (some
counts put deaths as high as 100). (11)
Children may be more vulnerable to certain waterborne contaminants. Because children,
especially infants, drink more fluids per pound of body weight than adults, they could be
more exposed to contaminants present in drinking water. Since the immune systems of
very young children are not as well developed as those of adults, they may be less able
than healthy adults to fight microbes in drinking water, and children have more severe
effects from gastrointestinal infections. While growing, children may be susceptible to
contaminants that affect the critical stages of development.
Nitrates, which are occasionally found in drinking water at concentrations above the
national standard, can pose a serious threat to very young children, especially newborns.
Commonly used in fertilizer and as curing agents in foods, nitrates can be converted to
nitrites in the intestines of children. After entering the blood stream, nitrites block the
oxygen carrying capacity of the blood, resulting in anemia or blue-baby disease. While
rare, this condition can be particularly severe in infants who consume nitrate-rich water in
their milk formula. An enzyme that reverses the effect of nitrites in older children and
adults is not fully functional in infants.(12)
POTENTJA! Risks FROM CONTAMJNATEC! WATER
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BEACH
SUMMARY of EPA AcrivmEs
EPA is protecting children from risks associated with water pollution in drinking water,
surface water, and fish. EPA issues national standards and health advisories; oversees the
monitoring of drinking water supplies; and supports state programs that help ensure safe
beaches, clean surface water, and uncontaminated fish. EPA takes enforcement actions
where there are violations of drinking water standards or wastewater discharge permits,
or where a discharge is not permitted.
CONTAMINANTS IN DmNkiNq WATER
EPA is engaged in a number of activities to characterize better the occurrence, exposure,
and health impacts of drinking water contaminants on a number of particularly vulnerable
populations (sensitive subpopulations), including infants and young children. These
activities result in better health assessments, regulations, and enforcement with respect to
drinking water protections. Examples of these activities include general improvements in
risk assessments that cut across all areas of the drinking water program:
• Health assessment methods: Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) for drinking
water are written with the goal of protecting the most sensitive subpopulations from
contaminant exposure. Therefore, regardless of whether children are found to be the
most sensitive subpopulation to exposure to a particular contaminant, their health is
protected.
• General health research: The Safe Drinking Water Act of 1996 calls for better science
and analysis of health effects to sensitive subpopulations, including children, to support
the development of drinking water regulations. Extensive research to better charac-
terize risk is underway and focuses on the health effects of chemical and microbial
contaminants.
• Risk-based contaminant selection: New tools are being developed to help ensure that
contaminants posing the greatest threat to public health are the first to be considered
for regulation. (Determinations of greater public health risk are based on the most
sensitive subpopulation.) For example, a National Contaminant Occurrence database
is being developed that will store information on occurrence of drinking water con-
taminants and potential contaminants. This database will be used to support EPA's
decisions on which contaminants to regulate in the future.
In the past, EPA has focused its drinking water regulatory activities in three areas: gas-
trointestinal diseases resulting from exposure to waterborne microbes, cancer, and lower
intelligence quotients (IQ) in children exposed to lead in drinking water. The Surface
Water Treatment Rule and the Total Coliform Rule help prevent gastrointestinal diseases
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by controlling microbial pathogens in drinking water. Future regulations will target high
priority chemical contaminants. Also, EPA is examining the health risk trade-off between
controlling microbial pathogens, including Cryptosporidium, and increased risk of cancer
resulting from potentially cancer causing byproducts that are formed when water disinfec-
tants come in contact with organic matter present in water.
The Safe Drinking Water Act controls children's exposure to lead via drinking water by
requiring regulated public water supplies to treat their water to reduce the water's capacity
to corrode lead materials in plumbing and distribution systems.( 13) Also, there are national
standards for lead in various plumbing materials, houses, and the connections between the
public water main and buildings where people receive their water. Lead service lines can
no longer be installed, and those still in place must be tested and replaced if tap water
exceeds the drinking water action level. Other lead materials, particularly lead solder, have
been banned from use in water systems. Faucets must undergo performance testing to
demonstrate that they do not contribute excessive concentrations of lead to the drinking
water. The requirements of the Lead and Copper Rule have resulted in a significant
reduction in the exposure of children to excessive lead in drinking water.(8)
CONTAMINANTS IN SURFACE WATER
EPA's efforts to protect people from surface water contamination center around the Clean
Water Act. Under the Act, any point-source discharge to a water of the United States is
prohibited unless authorized by a permit. Through the permit process, EPA and the states
control chemical and other discharges to surface waters. Facilities must operate, monitor,
and report in compliance with their permits. EPA or delegated states enforce the provi-
sions of the permit when violations of the limits occur.
The Beach Health Protection Program works with local officials and groups to inform the
public about contamination at beaches and thus reduce children's exposure. EPA has begun
to collect beach monitoring and closure information and make it available to the public. This
information will be compiled in a database and included on a World Wide Web site on beach
health. EPA takes legal action against municipal wastewater systems by requiring that they
upgrade to eliminate or reduce overflows and malfunctions, which are major contributors to
beach contamination. The Agency also is working with other federal agencies and the states
to protect infants from exposure to toxic molds resulting from floods.
CONTAMiNATEd Fish
EPA and state and tribal health departments are improving the effectiveness offish con-
sumption advisories and thus are reducing health risks to children who eat fish and to the
fetuses of pregnant women who eat fish. EPA is developing new ways to determine health
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risks and to assess how much fish children and women of childbearing age eat. In con-
junction with the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), EPA is
developing materials that explain the health risks developing fetuses and children may
encounter when their mothers consume contaminated fish. These materials are intended
for pediatricians; state, tribal, and local health agencies; and the public. Through its
regional initiatives program, EPA is working with a number of states, tribes, and Canada
to reduce contamination and eliminate future pollution in the Great Lakes.
PROJECTS ON CONTAMINANTS ii\ WATER ANC! Fish
CONTAMINANTS IN WATER
Title: Microbial Disinfectant/Disinfection Byproducts (M-DBP) Rules:
Description: A new set of rules currently is being developed to address the risk trade-
off between controlling microbial pathogens, including Cryptosporidium,
and potentially cancer causing byproducts formed when disinfectants
come into contact with organic matter present in water. These rules are
collectively known as the Microbial-Disinfectant/Disinfection Byproducts
(M-DBP) Rules. The first of these, the Interim Enhanced Surface Water
Treatment Rule and the Stage 1 Disinfectant/Disinfection Byproducts Rule
(D/DBPR), are due to be completed in November 1998. Other rules in
the M-DBP cluster are the Information Collection Rule, the Final En-
hanced Surface Water Treatment Rule, and the Stage 2 D/DBPR. These
standards will be set based on the most sensitive subpopulations affected
by the contaminants. Children are among those sensitive subpopulations
considered, and therefore will be protected by these regulations.
Contact: Office of Water, Elizabeth Corr, 202-260-8907
Title: Information Collection: Sensitive Subpopulations
Description: The 1996 amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act charge EPA to
identify subpopulations (e.g., infants, children, pregnant women) at greater
risk than the general public to adverse health effects from exposure to
contaminants in drinking water. The contaminants of interest for the
Interim Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule are microorganisms
(specifically Cryptosporidium, Giardia, and intestinal viruses) that are a
potential hazard to human health. In addition, EPA has begun to collect
data on individuals whose immune systems are potentially suppressed
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(e.g., individuals with diabetes, osteoporosis, renal disorders, AIDS,
cancer, organ transplants). One project seeks to compile information on
daycare facilities where children are in close physical contact with each
other. In the event of a waterborne disease outbreak, infection may
spread rapidly in daycare centers, especially if hand washing and diaper
changing practices are inadequate.
Contact: Office of Water, Joyce M. Donohue, 202-260-1318
Title: Microbial Diseases: Effects of Age and Sex on Morbidity and Mortality
Description: In the regulation of disinfectants and their byproducts, there is a delicate
balance between the risk associated with chemical exposure and the risk
associated with exposure to waterborne pathogens. The relative risks are
affected by a number of factors, including the impact of age and sex on
sensitivity to microbial diseases. EPA proposes to use CDC data on
morbidity and mortality from outbreaks of microbial foodborne and
waterborne diseases, to evaluate the influence of age and sex on suscepti-
bility to microbial diseases and disease mortality Differences in apparent
response for different microorganisms will be evaluated where possible.
The CDC data will be supplemented by published accounts of the disease
outbreaks. This study will allow EPA to document the susceptibility of
children to microbial diseases and make better risk-management decisions
based on improved data.
Contact: Office of Water, Joyce M. Donohue, 202-260-1318
Title: Water Consumption Estimates for Subpopulations, Including Children
Description: This study will examine whether and to what extent infants, children,
pregnant women, the elderly, individuals with a history of serious illness, or
other subpopulations may experience elevated health risks from contami-
nants in drinking water. Current drinking water intake rates for primary
sources of water are based on data now 20 years old, and there is reason
to believe that water consumption patterns have changed since that time.
To characterize current exposure to contaminants in drinking water, EPA
will generate estimates of tap and bottled water intake based on the U.S.
Department of Agriculture's 1994,1995, and 1996 Continuing Survey of
Food Intake by Individuals (CSFII). Estimates will be generated based
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on population demographics, such as age, gender, and geographical region.
Consumption estimates for plain water consumed as a beverage and water
added to foods and beverages during preparation will be determined.
Contact: Office of Water, Helen Jacobs, 202-260-5412 or Julie Du, 202-260-7583
Title: Monitoring Compliance with and Enforcing the Requirements of the
National Drinking Water Regulations on Lead and Copper
Description: EPA currently is evaluating compliance of public water systems with the
national primary drinking water regulations for lead and copper. These
regulations established monitoring and treatment requirements for public
water systems. This project is designed to ensure compliance by all
public water systems, thereby reducing the amount of lead children
consume from drinking water. So far, several hundred enforcement
actions have been taken by EPA and the states against systems that have
failed to meet the initial monitoring requirements of the rule. Currently,
EPA is evaluating data on whether systems have complied with the
subsequent requirements in the rule (e.g., installation of corrosion control,
beginning of lead service replacement). EPA will be working with the
states to take appropriate actions to return violators to compliance.
Partners: State agencies
Contact: Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance, Brian Maas, 202-
564-6019 or Betsy Devlin, 202-564-4054
Title: Ongoing Nitrate/Nitrite Compliance Monitoring
Description: Primary responsibility for compliance with the national nitrate/nitrite
regulations in drinking water has been delegated to most states. The
regions work cooperatively with the states. EPA performs inspections
and takes enforcement actions on selected systems in all regions.
Contact: Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance, Betsy Devlin,
202-564-4054
Title: Community Enteric (Intestinal) Disease Study
Description: This project will characterize the nature and magnitude of common
waterborne disease in approximately 300 families with children between
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the ages of two and ten. Gastrointestinal symptoms will be recorded on a
daily basis. Questionnaires and reports obtained from hospital admissions
and clinical laboratories will be used to assess the health status of families.
Efforts will be made to identify the microbes or other contaminants that
cause diseases, using laboratory analysis of fecal and body fluid speci-
mens, and a survey of blood characteristics. The research will allow EPA
to document the susceptibility of children to microbial disease and respond
appropriately.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Rebecca Calderon, 919-966-0617
Title: Determination of Human Infective Dose and Antibody Levels for
Cryptosporidium Parvum
Description: This proj ect will help determine water treatment goals and drinking water
standards for Cryptosporidium by estimating the Infective Dose 50 (the
dose at which 50 percent of people can be expected to show symptoms).
This value has been determined in human volunteers for one strain. Other
strains are being examined.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Walter Jakubowski, 513-569-73 85
Title: Feasibility of a Cultural Method for Detecting Viable Cryptosporidium
Parvum Oocysts in Environmental Samples
Description: This study is attempting to develop a more effective and efficient method
for detecting Cryptosporidium, a type of microorganism that causes
waterborne disease.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Walter Jakubowski, 513-569-7385
Title: Source Water Protection Activities
Description: EPA regions are working with states using various tools to institute source
water protection measures as an important part of the initiative to protect
children from contaminated drinking water. Among other efforts, regions
are identifying systems and sources with significant nitrate levels, which is
of particular concern for infants. Regions also are piloting an education
and outreach program involving small communities and tribes for whom
source water protection may be the only means to protect the community
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from drinking water contamination. All of EPA's regions continue to
provide technical assistance and conduct enforcement activities related to
municipal and industrial wastewater treatment works.
Contact: Office of Water, Beth Hall, 202-260-5553
Title: Enforcement of Drinking Water Regulations Governing Microbial Quality
of Drinking Water
Description: Enforcement oflhedrinkingwaterregulations dealing with themicrobiological
quality of drinking water, specifically the Surface Water Treatment Rule and
Total Coliform Rule, is a high priority. Two of the most common violations in
the drinking water program are violations of the total coliform monitoring/
reporting requirements and violations of the total coliform Maximum Contami-
nant Level. While compliance with this rule has improved somewhat over the
years, efforts to increase the rate of compliance must continue.
Contact: Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance, Brian Maas, 202-
564-6019 or Betsy Devlin, 202-564-4054
Title: Flood-Related Disease in Children
Description: EPA Region 8 is working with interagency groups to identify infectious
agents and mold toxins that selectively injure children. The proj ect includes
the initiative to identify mycotoxins produced by stachybottrous molds that
have been linked to potentially fatal lung damage in infants. Recent studies
have been conducted in Grand Forks and Fargo, North Dakota.
Partners: National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention, and states
Contact: Region 8, Chris Weiss, 303-312-6671
Title: Children's Health Protection
Description: Because children are very vulnerable to beach contamination when they
spend a lot of time playing near water, EPA strives to protect them and
others from the risks of beach contamination. The primary contaminants
of beaches are microbial organisms from fecal material in sewer over-
flows, storm water runoff, and water treatment malfunctions. The pur-
pose of EPA's beach health program is to improve methods of assessing
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Contact:
the problems, monitoring conditions, and informing the public who may be
at risk. EPA has begun to collect beach monitoring and closure informa-
tion and make it available to the public. This information will be compiled
in a database and included on an Internet beach health home page.
Office of Water, William F. (Rick) Hoffmann, 202-260-0642
CONTAMINANTS IN Fish
Title: Fish Consumption/Toxics in the Harbor Program
Description: EPA Region 3 is collecting data on fish consumption patterns in a minority
community to estimate the risks to children and their families from eating
the fish. The program will provide effective communication to Baltimore
residents about the fish consumption advisories in the harbor, best methods
for preparing and cooking fish to reduce exposure to contaminated fish
tissue, and the risks from eating fish caught in the harbor.
Contact: Region 3, Reggie Harris, 215-566-2988
Title: Fish Advisories in Region 2
Description: EPA has been involved in public communication offish advisories in the states
ofNew York and New Jersey. The health advisories are targeted to particular
populations at risk, including anglers who eat their catch, pregnant and nursing
women, and children. Communication takes the form of flyers (some trans-
lated into other languages); public service announcements; and working with
local health care providers, particularly pre-and neonatal clinics. The bodies of
water most involved are the Hudson River, New York/New Jersey Harbor,
Passaic River, Niagara River, and the Great Lakes.
Partners: States of New York and New Jersey
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001
Title: EPA Region 4, U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), and State of South
Carolina Contaminated Fish Public Involvement Campaign
Description: EPA Region 4 is working closely with DOE and South Carolina to publi-
cize health issues associated with eating contaminated fish downstream
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from the Savannah River facility. Recent research has shown that young
children have been eating fish taken from waters where fish historically
have been shown to have unhealthy levels of Cesium 137 and Strontium
90. The public involvement campaign provides information to local health
centers and produces fact sheets and public announcements for radio and
TV stations.
Contact: Region 4, Camilla Warren, 404-562-8519
Title: Columbia River Intertribal Fish Commission (CRITFC) Study
Description: EPA is in the second phase of a two-phase study to examine the role of
fish consumption as an exposure route for waterborne contaminants
among individuals of four Columbia River tribes, including their children.
The first phase, which was completed by the Columbia River Intertribal
Fish Commission, documented the types and amounts offish eaten by
tribal members. It showed that tribal children ate an average of 19.6
grams offish per day, three times the national average of 6.5 grams. This
finding is important since several studies have shown that plants and
animals in the Columbia River Basin have elevated levels of harmful
contaminants. Phase II of the study consists of sampling and analysis of
fish species that are eaten by tribal members. Information from both
phases will be used to assess the potential health impacts to children from
consuming contaminants in the river.
Partners: Columbia River Intertribal Fish Commission
Contact: Region 10, Marcia Lagerloff, 206-553-0176
Title: Reduction/Elimination of Persistent Toxic Substances in Great Lakes
Description: EPA's Great Lakes National Program Office and Region 5 have been
working with several partners to eliminate the releases of specified
persistent toxic substances to the Great Lakes Basin. The strategy targets
PCBs, DDT, mercury, dioxins, and certain canceled pesticides for per-
centage reductions within a ten-year timeframe on the path to virtual
elimination of these substances.
Partners: Environment Canada, Great Lakes states, industries, tribes, environmental
groups, and non-government organizations
Contact: Region 5, Elizabeth LaPlante, 312-353-2694
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Title: Technical Assistance on Risk from Consumption of Contaminated Fish
Description: EPA's Fish Contamination Program (FCP) provides technical assistance to
states and tribes in characterizing health risk associated with exposure to
chemical contaminants in noncommercial fish and wildlife. In cooperation
with the states, tribes, and other federal agencies, the FCP has developed
a four-volume set of guidance documents entitled Guidance for Assessing
Chemical Contaminant Data for Use in Fish Advisories. This guidance
includes recommended methods for protecting children and women of
childbearing age from consuming fish with harmful levels of contaminants.
The guidance has been distributed nationally and is used by the majority of
states for issuing fish advisories, and is periodically updated to reflect new
information.
Contact: Office of Water, Jeffrey Bigler, 202-260-1305
Title: Guidance on Risk from Consumption of Contaminated Fish
Description: EPA's Fish Contamination Program (FCP) is currently undertaking several
projects that will include recommendations for protecting children from
harmful levels of contaminants. These projects include:
• The Comparative Dietary Risk Project, which will compare health risks
in people who eat chemically contaminated fish to health risks in people
who do not eat fish.
• Guidance for Conducting Fish Consumption Rate Surveys.
• New toxicity values for five chemicals (DDT, DDE, chlorpyrifos,
chlordane, and toxaphene) found in fish tissue and included in the FCP
national guidance.
• A collaborative outreach effort with the Public Health Service.
• Guidance directed at women of childbearing age on how to reduce risks
associated with the consumption of PCB-contaminated fish.
Partners: States and Tribes, Agency For Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
Contact: Office of Water, Jeffrey Bigler, 202-260-1305
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REFERENCES
1. ATSDR. 1989. Toxicological Profile for PCBs. U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Public Health Service. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
Registry.
2. ATSDR. 1993. Toxicological Profile for Arsenic. U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Public Health Service. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
Registry.
3. ATSDR. 1995. Toxicological Profile for Mercury. U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Public Health Service. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
Registry.
4. ATSDR. 1993. Toxicological Profile for Lead. U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Public Health Service. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
Registry.
5. ATSDR. 1995. Toxicological Profile for Chromium. U. S. Department of Health
and Human Services, Public Health Service. Agency for Toxic Substances and
Disease Registry.
6. USEPA. 1997. Before You Go to the Beach. Publication Number EPA 820-K-
97-001. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
7. USEPA. 1997. Should I Eat the Fish I Catch? Publication Number EPA 823-B-
97-009. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
8. USEPA. 1994. Indicator I: Population Served by Community Drinking Water
Systems Violating Health-Based Requirements. Safe Drinking Water Information
System. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
9. USEPA. 1997. Public Water System Inventory and Compliance Statistics
FY1991-FY1995. Publication Number EPA 816-R-97-006. U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency.
10. Kramer, M.H., B.L. Herwaldt, G.F. Craun, R.L. Calderon, andD.D. Juranek.
1996. Waterborne Disease: 1993-1994. Journal AWWA. Volume 88, Pages
66-80. March.
11. Solo-Gabriele, H. andS. Neumeister. 1996. U.S. Outbreaks of
Cryptosporidiosis. Journal AWWA. Volume 88, Pages 81-82. September.
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12. USEPA. 1994. National Primary Drinking Water Standards, February 1994.
Nitrate/Nitrite Health Advisory. Series 7 Inorganics, 1987. Publication Number
EPA 810-F-94-001 A. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Water Resource
Center.
13. USEPA. 1991. Preamble to National Primary Drinking Water Regulations for Lead
and Copper. June 7,1991. Federal Register. Volume 56, Page 26460.
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Stepl:
Step 2:
Step 3:
Step 4:
EPA ASSESSES Risk TO PROTECT ChildREN ANC]
ENVIRONMENT
To protect human health and the environment, EPA estimates the severity of environmental
risks that could influence human populations and the environment. Risk assessment is the
process of identifying and estimating the level of risk. Risk assessment is a complex,
analytical process involving expertise in various disciplines, such as chemistry, biology,
ecology, statistics, and medicine. EPA's risk assessment process has evolved over the
years and is described in anumber of reports. (1 ,2,3,4,5)
People often have different perceptions of risk based on their personal experiences and
knowledge. Risk assessments are important because they provide a systematic, consis-
tent way of estimating risk.
Risk assessments are used along with other factors in deciding what to do about environ-
mental hazards. Decisions to prevent or control risk involve the participation and expertise
of many different people in government, industry, and the community who have a broad
understanding of the risks, laws, community, business, and feasibility of pollution control or
prevention methods. Thus, risk assessments help interested parties decide how to reduce or
prevent health risks by offering a common means of analyzing a complex situation.
Most EPA human health or ecological risk assessments address specific substances, such
as toxic chemicals, or sites, such as a lake, river, city, industrial facility, or uncontrolled
Risk Assessment Process
Hazard Identification:
Determines whether exposure to a substance can cause cancer, birth defects, or other
adverse health effects.
Dose-Response Assessment:
Determines the possible severity of adverse health effects at different levels of exposure.
Exposure Assessment:
Estimates the amount of contact individuals within a population—including potentially
sensitive groups, such as children—could have with the substance.
Risk Characterization:
Combines the information in the first three steps to determine the level of potential risk
to humans andthe environment.
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hazardous waste areas. Typically, a human health risk assessment entails a four-phase process
(see box on previous page) to identify the type of adverse health effects, estimate the severity
of effects, determine exposure levels, and characterize the overall risk.
Some substances, such as lead, mercury, and nitrates, have prompted EPA to conduct more
research and develop better risk assessment methods to protect children from exposure to such
substances. In addition, EPA has begun developing new methods to account for combined
exposures to a variety of substances and sources of exposure. For instance, an individual may
be exposed to lead from many sources, such as contaminated drinking water, lead-based paint,
and airborne lead in industrial or densely populated areas. The exposures from all of these
sources could be combined into one measure for an assessment of combined risk to children.
EPA Policy liNimAiivEs Ai\d RESEARC^ TARqEiiiNq ChildREN
WATER
EPA historically has developed national standards to protect children and adults against
potential exposures to contaminants in drinking water. However, EPA is broadening the
protection of children by ensuring that the developmental studies used to determine national
drinking water standards are designed to evaluate lifetime effects of exposures of infants and
children during their formative years. EPA also is evaluating whether children are more
susceptible than adults to water contaminants. The 1996 Safe Drinking Water Act and the
Food Quality Protection Act provide for additional measures to protect susceptible segments
of the population, including children, from contaminants in water.
HAZARdous WASTE
EPA's Superfund program analyzes possible risks to children from exposure to hazardous
waste sites. The analysis of risks to children between six months and six years of age ac-
counts for exposures from soil ingestion and inhalation as well as potential risks from tres-
passing on abandoned hazardous waste sites. In determining risk to children, the Superfund
Program modifies several factors in their calculations. Among them are body weight, inhala-
tion rates, and ingestion rates to account for age-specific activities, such as playing in soil.
EPA and the states track the treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste under
the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). Risk assessments guide the
RCRA program in correcting past pollution problems at hazardous waste facilities, as well
as in setting standards for operating the facilities. The RCRA program requires an assess-
ment of the potential risks to a child at any hazardous waste facility on which housing may
someday be built. EPA also addresses potential ways that children might become exposed
when evaluating chemicals being considered as hazardous waste.
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In assessing potential risks to children from lead exposure, the Superfund and RCRA
Programs use methods specifically developed for children to predict changes in blood
lead levels. The Integrated Exposure and Uptake Biokinetic model (IEUBK) uses
exposure values based on the behavior and physiology of children six years of age and
under to predict future lead levels in children.
In a project to develop better tools for risk assessment, the Superfund Program in EPA's
Region 9 incorporated the unique characteristics of children's activities into screening
values called preliminary remediation goals (PRGs). The PRGs allow for rapid identifica-
tion of potential cancer and non-cancer health risks (especially to children) from contami-
nation at hazardous waste sites. Since they were developed, PRGs have gained wide-
spread acceptance. They are used for screening of hazardous waste contamination and
for setting cleanup priorities at Superfund sites and hazardous waste facilities.
EXPOSURE
In response to the Food Quality Protection Act, the Agency has been developing analyti-
cal methods to better estimate children's exposures to pesticides in the diet and from other
sources. EPA's risk assessments will address the differences in exposure levels and
susceptibilities between children and adults wherever adequate data are available. EPA
already has made significant progress in protecting children from lead poisoning and
exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).
Several projects are underway to improve exposure estimates in infants and children. For
instance, EPA is studying the structural differences in the airways of children and adults.
The Exposure Factors Handbook, recently revised and reviewed by EPA's Science
Advisory Board, includes exposure information by age group and provides information on
childhood exposure factors. These factors include age-based exposures (such as soil
ingestion), physical characteristics (such as body size), and activity patterns (such as time
spent outdoors).
CuMulAiivE Risk
The Cumulative Exposure Project is a comprehensive effort to develop estimates of pollut-
ant exposures to children. This new initiative considers a wide range of environmental
hazards, such as the combined exposure to contaminants in food, drinking water, and
outdoor air. The Cumulative Exposure Proj ect will identify pollutants that have the greatest
impact on children and identify their sources. This project is consistent with EPA's 1997
Guidance on Cumulative Risk Assessment.(6)
Through collaboration with the World Resources Institute and the School of Public Health at
the University of California, Berkeley, EPA is developing a children's environmental "health
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index" as part of an overall Children's Environmental Health Indicators project. The index
will be a combination of environmental health conditions for children and will evaluate both
exposures and effects. The goal is to provide information for developing policies to improve
environmental health conditions for children and to generate useful information for the public.
EPA is preparing a "vulnerability index" for children that will be used in the Agency's Chemi-
cal Indexing System. The Chemical Indexing System describes the relative hazard of chemi-
cal releases rather than simply ranking facilities, industries, or chemicals by the number of
pounds of chemicals released into the environment each year. The vulnerability index pro-
vides a description of socioeconomic characteristics that may make children and other
groups more susceptible to specific chemicals than the general population.
EPA PROJECTS TO IMPROVE Risk ASSESSMENT
WATER
Title:
Description:
Partners:
Contact:
Children Health Protection-Improvement in Risk Assessment Methods for
Drinking Water
To protect children from drinking water contaminants, EPA evaluates the
potential adverse effects of contaminants on reproduction and development.
The available data, usually from animal studies, are reviewed extensively to
determine the potential risk from short-term and long-term exposure to
contaminants on the developing fetus and children. These efforts include:
• Improvements in risk assessment to evaluate the effects of children's
exposure to water contaminants.
• Application of new risk assessment methods to characterize the risk
associated with these exposures and how they disrupt children's normal
development into healthy adults.
• Evaluation of the mechanisms underlying children's susceptibility to
water contaminants.
• Education and communication to prevent maj or outbreaks from water
contamination.
State and local health departments, Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention, and Food and Drug Administration
Office of Water, Amal M. Mahfouz, 202-260-9568 or Alan Rubin,
202-260-7589
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Title: Children's Health Protection-Biosolids
Description: Biosolids, commonly known as sewage sludge, are the remains of domes-
tic and wastewater treatment. They may be processed and used as
fertilizer or fill. In developing standards (Part 503 Regulation for the Use
or Disposal of Biosolids), EPA applied a risk assessment method that
offers extraordinary protection to young children, toddlers, newborns, and
fetuses from potential human health impacts of arsenic, cadmium, lead,
mercury, selenium, and other pollutants inbiosolids. The standards for
these pollutants protect not only the young and very young, but also the
rest of the population.
Contact: Office of Water, Alan Rubin, 202-260-7589
HAZARdous WASTE
Title: Determining Potential Exposure of Children Near Superfund Sites
Description: Potential cancer risks and other hazards to children from exposure to
chemicals in air, water, and soil at National Priorities List sites are ana-
lyzed as a routine part of the Superfund program. These evaluations
include assessing risks to children aged six months to six years who may
ingest soil, evaluating risks to children through inhalation, and evaluating
potential risks to children and teenagers trespassing onto abandoned
hazardous waste sites (primarily 10-18 year olds). In addressing risk to
children, appropriate adjustments are made to body weight, inhalation
rates, and ingestion rates to account for age-specific activities. The
analysis predicts changes in blood lead levels in the population. This
information is used to evaluate the potential need for site cleanup.
Contact: Region2, Marian Olsen, 212-637-4313, Mark Maddaloni, 212-637-
4315, Audrey Galizia, 212-637-4352, or Gina Ferreira, 212-637-4431
Title: Superfund Site Evaluation
Description: The mathematical model used to evaluate Superfund sites for possible
response actions explicitly considers children as a segment of the
population. Children are counted twice when exposure to contamination
can occur in their schoolyards and homes. Response actions have been
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taken at three large lead sites in Region 6 to address children's health.
Risks to children from exposure to Superfund site contaminants are
estimated using a special set of assumptions for children six years of age
and younger. Baseline risk assessments have been conducted at every
National Priorities List site in the Region.
Contact: Region 6, Don Williams, 214-665-2197 or John Rauscher,
214-665-8513
Title: Human Health Risk Assessments/Risk Assessment Work Plans
Description: All human health risk assessments reviewed by Region 6 for hazardous
waste programs address sensitive populations, including infants and young
children. The potential pathways for a child's exposure to hazardous
wastes include eating, breathing, and skin contact. Risk assessments also
address the potential for accumulation of hazardous constituents through
the food chain, such as the breast milk pathway. The Region also ad-
dresses potential pathways for children's exposure when evaluating
substances petitioned for delisting as a hazardous waste. Ten risk assess-
ments were completed in FY1997.
Contact: Region 6, William Gallagher, 214-665-6775
Title: Cleanup Actions
Description: Once a site is placed on the National Priorities List, the risk assessment
performed for the site may take into account exposure to children as a
special group that needs protection. This determination is made on a
site-by-site basis depending on the potential population that may be exposed
to contaminants at the site. If children are currently present at the site or are
expected in the future, the risk assessment will address them specifically.
Actual or potential exposure to children is a factor considered in determining
the levels of risk and the appropriateness of a removal action.
Contact: Region 5, Pat Van Leeuwen, 312-886-4904
Title: Hazardous Waste
Description: An important component of the Hazardous Waste Program (RCRA
Corrective Action) process is an assessment of risks to human health and
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the environment at potentially contaminated properties. These assess-
ments require inclusion of children as a distinct exposure population. For
example, a quantitative risk assessment that explicitly includes children's
risk is required for any facility that may contain homes in the future, even
though no one currently lives on or near the property. EPA requires that
assessments of children's risk include the use of Agency methods for
assessing risk specifically to children (e.g.,Guidance Manual for the
Integrated Exposure Uptake Biokinetic Model for Children).
Contact: Region 8, Tala Henry, 303-312-6648
Title: Risk Assessment in Region 9
Description: Region 9 hazardous waste management programs incorporate protection
of children's health into virtually all risk assessment activities. These
include assessments for specific contaminants to which children are
susceptible. For example, children may be very susceptible to vinyl
chloride. Region 9 and EPA's Office of Research and Development have
developed a new vinyl chloride risk assessment method. In its first use at
the Operating Industries, Inc. Superfund site, the method helped deter-
mine safe levels of exposure to landfill gas containing vinyl chloride for
children in nearby homes. Indoor air was sampled in more than 200
homes, seven of which were found to be unsafe for children because of
the high vinyl chloride cancer risk. This new method is being used in four
other environmental cleanup projects.
Contact: Region 9, Gerald Hiatt, 415-744-2319 or Arnold Den, 415-744-1018
Title: Preliminary Remediation Goals to Protect Children
Description: In a project to develop better tools for risk assessment, toxicologists from
Region 9 incorporated the particular characteristics of children's activities
into risk-based screening values called preliminary remediation goals
(PRGs). The PRGs allow for rapid identification of potential health risks
(especially to children) from contamination at hazardous waste sites.
Since their development, Region 9 PRGs have gained widespread
acceptance regionally, nationally, and internationally. They are used for
risk-based screening of hazardous waste contamination and for setting
priorities at hazardous waste sites. PRGs have been developed to
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address both contaminants that cause cancer and those responsible for
non-cancer toxicity. The non-cancer PRGs are based entirely on a
childhood exposure scenario, and the PRGs for carcinogens are devel-
oped from a child-to-adult exposure scenario.
Contact: Region 9, Gerald Hiatt, 415-744-2319, Stanford Smucker,
415-744-2311, or Daniel Stralka, 415-744-2310
Title: ATSDR Implementation
Description: EPA has been involved in the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
Registry (ATSDR) Child Health Initiative. EPA ATSDR's Board of
Science Counselors in efforts to protect children at Superfund sites. EPA
also is currently working with the Rush Medical Center in Cleveland in
writing a chapter for the American Academy of Pediatrics Green Book on
Environmental Diseases in Children. EPA and ATSDR are planning
new projects that go beyond studying risk of specific substances to
studying cumulative risks to children at Superfund sites.
Partners: ATSDR and American Academy of Pediatrics
Contact: Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response, Gershon Bergeisen,
703-603-8816
Title: Office of Solid Waste Risk Assessments
Description: EPA continues to include children when considering risks posed by contami-
nants . A new multi-pathway risk assessment (MPRA) model evaluates
human and ecological risks from the disposal of more than 100 waste
constituents (50 evaluated for ecological risk). The MPRA evaluates the
movement of contaminants through the air, surface water, groundwater, and
soil, and chemical changes that occur during this movement. Because of
their small bodyweight and lifestyle, children may be more likely to encounter
higher exposures per unit bodyweight than adults. In addition, children are
more sensitive to certain toxics, such as lead and mercury.
Contact: Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response, Charlotte Bertrand,
703-308-9053
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Title:
Description:
Contact:
EXPOSURE
Title:
Description:
Contact:
Title:
Description:
Contact:
Combustion Rulemaking
EPA currently is developing regulations that will significantly reduce
emissions of dioxins, furans, and mercury from hazardous waste combus-
tion. These chemicals pose significant risk to children. When exposed,
children may suffer from brain and central nervous system damage or
harmful developmental effects, such as delayed walking and talking.
Mercury exposure in mothers may cause developmental effects in their
children. EPA is examining alternative technologies for the treatment and
disposal of mercury-bearing wastes.
Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response, Fred Chanania,
703-308-8420
Airway Anatomical Structure
This is a study of anatomical differences between children and adults. The
research uses complete airway measurements for ten generations of
children ranging from infants to young adults to improve the previous
estimates of airway dimensions in children. The analyses will provide
estimates of changes in children's airways. This work will contribute to
estimates of quantitative human health risk assessments in children.
Office of Research and Development, Elaine Francis, 202-564-6789
Exposure Factors Handbook
The Handbook contains exposure information by age group, including
children. It provides information on childhood exposure factors, including
age-based exposure route data, physical characteristics, and daily activity
patterns. Information is presented for factors, such as dietary intake,
drinking water intake, and activity patterns.
Office of Research and Development, Jacqueline Moya, 202-260-2385
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Title: The Chester Environmental Justice Initiative
Description: This is an assessment of the exposure pathways and sources of environ-
mental threats faced by children in Chester, Pennsylvania. Region 3 will
estimate the relative risk posed by each exposure pathway and develop
measures to help ensure that children are not exposed to unacceptable
health threats. Chester has a high concentration of industrial facilities (oil
refineries, an incinerator, and a medical waste processing facility) that are
located close to residential neighborhoods. The city has the highest infant
death rate, the lowest birth rate, and the highest death rate from malignant
tumors of any city in Pennsylvania.
Contact: Region 3, Janet Viniski, 215-566-2999
ivE Risk
Title: Cumulative Exposure Proj ect
Description: The Cumulative Exposure Project is a broad-based examination of expo-
sure that considers cumulative exposures to pollutants through air, food,
and drinking water. The methods rely on existing data to estimate occur-
rence of exposures across communities and for different segments of the
populations. Data from the Cumulative Exposure Project will focus on
identifying pollutants and sources with the greatest impacts on children.
Initial analyses will focus on exposures through air and food. Levels of
toxic pollutants in air, food, and drinking water will be examined to identify
exposures of greatest concern.
Contact: Office of Policy, Tracy Woodruff, 202-260-6669
Title: Chicago Cumulative Risk Initiative (CCRI) Proj ect
Description: This project is designed to advance EPA's science of cumulative risk,
possibly leading to a better understanding of urban industrial areas and the
complexities of permitting and locating numerous incinerators and other
sources in a relatively confined geographic area around Southeast Chicago
and Northwest Indiana. The first phase is the development of a profile of
the pollution exposures experienced by these communities based on
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existing studies and data. In a second phase, Argonne National Laboratory
will conduct a project to calculate cumulative risk impacts on children.
The profile of pollution exposures and the resulting data will be available
for use by the Agency and other interested parties to determine what
activities are needed to reduce risk (e.g., inspections, education and
training, and pollution prevention).
Partners: States of Illinois and Indiana and local agencies
Contact: Region 5, Cheryl Newton, 312-353-6730
Title: Sixteenth Street Community Health Center
Description: The Sixteenth Street Community Health Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin,
was funded in part by EPA's Office of Environmental Justice to raise
awareness of environmental hazards. Children of low-income Hispanic,
Southeast Asian, and other ethnic groups living in the vicinity of the
inner-city health center are of particular concern. A 1995 survey found
that most residents in this area were poorly informed about health risks
associated with exposure to environmental hazards. Children in these
communities had elevated levels of lead in their blood but were not being
routinely tested. They also had extremely high asthma rates. The project
translated educational materials into the Hmong and Laotian languages
and provided in-home education and health treatment, monitoring, and
cleanup.
Partners: Sixteenth Street Community Health Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Contact: Region 5, Linda Smith, 312-564-2602
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REfERENCES
1. Cohrssen, J.J., andV.T. Covello. 1989. Risk Analysis: A Guide to Principles and
Methods for Analyzing Health and Environmental Risks. Council on Environmental
Quality. National Technical Information Service (NTIS) Publication Number PB 89-
137772.
2. NRC. 1983. Risk Assessment in the Federal Government: Managing the Process.
Committee on the Institutional Means for Assessment of Risks to Public Health,
Commission on Life Sciences. National Research Council. Washington, DC: Na-
tional Academy Press.
3. NRC. 1993. Issues in Risk Assessment. Committee on Risk Assessment Method-
ology, Commission on Life Sciences. National Research Council. Washington, DC:
National Academy Press.
4. NRC. 1994. Science and Judgment in Risk Assessment. Committee on Risk
Assessment of Hazardous Air Pollutants, Commission on Life Sciences. National
Research Council. Washington, DC: National Academy Press.
5. USEPA. 1994. Report on the Workshop on Cancer Risk Assessment Guidelines
Issues. EPA 630-R-94-005a. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of
Research and Development, Risk Assessment Forum.
6. USEPA. 1997. Guidance on Cumulative Risk Assessment. U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Science Policy Council.
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PROTECT! Nq Chi Id REN
EPA's RO!E AS INTERNATIONAL LEAdER ii\ ENVIRONMENTAL
PROTECTION
The United States plays a role in promoting children's environmental health in interna-
tional organizations and other nations. The United States' goal is to foster
multi-national efforts to reduce risks to children's health from global environmental
hazards. EPA's leadership in building international cooperation and technical capability
is an essential part of the U.S. role.
DECLARATION of T^E ENVIRONMENTAL LEAC!ERS of T^E Eiqkr
ON ChildREN's ENVIRONMENTAL
The 1 997 Declaration of the Environment Leaders of the Eight on Children's Environmen-
tal Health has given worldwide attention to environmental hazards that threaten children
and to the need for international cooperation to improve protection of children. The
Declaration was adopted unanimously by environmental leaders of the G7 countries plus
Russia, known as "the Eight," at a summit hosted by Administrator Carol Browner in May
1 997 . Its adoption signifies the willingness of the eight most economically influential
countries to collaborate on children's environmental health issues.
The Declaration, and its list of implementation actions, provides guidelines for domestic
and international efforts to improve the protection of children's health. The guidelines
specify concrete actions that the Eight will undertake in considering infants and children in
environmental studies, risk assessments, and protection programs. Seven specific areas
for international collaboration are identified:
• Improving environmental science and risk assessments by using more explicit scientific
knowledge of children's characteristics.
• Reducing blood lead levels in children to below ten micrograms per deciliter and
reducing child, infant, and maternal exposure to lead.
• Improving access worldwide to microbiologically-safe drinking water.
• Reducing air pollution.
• Reducing children's exposure to environmental tobacco smoke.
• Increasing and coordinating scientific research on endocrine (hormone) disrupting
chemicals.
• Taking decisive international action to confront the problem of global warming.
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EPA will coordinate U.S. efforts to put into action the steps called for in the Declaration and
will work with other countries of the Eight. EPA also will work with the United Nations
Environment Programme, United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), the World Health
Organization, and other international organizations to further the goals of the Declaration.
EPA INTERNATIONAL AcrivmEs
EPA already supports several international initiatives that promote the goals of the 1997
Declaration. The project to promote microbiologically safe drinking water includes a
water reference laboratory in the Americas and an international exchange of water moni-
toring data. EPA also plans to fund a scientific conference on environmental tobacco
smoke and participate in international meetings on endocrine disrupters, environmental
science, and risk assessments.
EPA is committed to reducing the risks to children's health from toxic chemicals in the
environment on a global scale. The Agency will continue to cooperate with other federal
agencies and international organizations to:
• Promote worldwide use of environmentally safe technologies and services.
• Coordinate environmental policies and implement cooperative research programs.
• Provide international technical assistance, training, and information exchange.
EPA will continue working to ensure that today's children and future generations receive
the protection they deserve.
ASTHMA ANd OT^ER RESpiRATORy EffECis
The Declaration on Children's Environmental Health highlighted the need to reduce air
pollution in order to "alleviate both domestic and transboundary impacts of air quality and,
particularly, children's health." Of particular concern are the effects of poor air quality on
children and infants. Childhood asthma and other pediatric respiratory ailments are
increasing dramatically around the world. These ailments can be exacerbated by environ-
mental pollutants in the air, including emissions from fossil fuel combustion.
Studies in locations where air pollution is very concentrated, such as an EPA-sponsored study
of children in China, provide information that will benefit children around the globe.
Achieving our national environmental goals requires cooperation with neighboring countries
to reduce pollution that crosses international borders. EPA and Environment Canada
provide joint leadership in efforts to better protect children from the negative effects of air
pollution. The U.S.-Canada Air Quality Agreement is intended to reduce smog pollution
in the Midwest and Eastern regions of the two countries. As highlighted in Chapter 2
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Asthma and Other Respiratory Effects, the United States has established new national
ambient air quality standards for ozone and fine participate matter.
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promote the protection of safe drinking water sources through watershed protection activi-
ties, good wastewater management practices, and improved community sanitation.
Under the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement, EPA and Environment Canada review
and report on discharges of toxic substances and their effects in the Great Lakes Basin.
The agreement sets goals to better protect children, pregnant women, and women of
childbearing age from persistent pollutants found in fish and marine mammals.
EPA INTERNATIONAL PROJECTS
ASTHMA ANd OT^ER RespiRATORy EffECis
Title: Children's Lung Function Study in China
Description: This U.S.-China cooperative study in four Chinese cities will determine
long-term effects on children's lung function caused by several air pollut-
ants, including: 1) ambient acid aerosols, particulates, and sulfur oxides;
and 2) indoor air pollution (coal smoke, environmental tobacco smoke).
The study also examines the effects of changes in ambient pollution levels
on children's lung function. Pilot study results have shown a clear associa-
tion between particulate matter exposure and long-term reduction in
elementary school children's lung function.
Partners: China National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA) and Robert
Wood Johnson Medical School, New Jersey, USA
Contact: Office of International Affairs, Jentai Yang, 202-564-6429
Title: U. S .-Canada Air Quality Agreement
Description: This agreement on reducing smog pollution of the Midwest-Eastern
regional airshed involves federal, provincial, and state governmental
cooperation and significant public and private stakeholder involvement.
EPA and Environment Canada also review, assess, and report on
ground-level ozone and its effects through joint biennial progress reports.
Partners: Environment Canada
Contact: Office of International Affairs, Pete Christich, 202-564-6404
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TMe: Mobile Source Training/Lead Phase-Out Training
Description: Working with international organizations, EPA has developed a training
program designed to encourage the phase-out of leaded gasoline and
reduce motor vehicle pollution. The course has been delivered in two
Latin American countries, two Chinese cities, and the English-speaking
Caribbean countries. It has been partially credited with China's subse-
quent commitment to phase lead out of gasoline by 2000.
Partners: World Health Organization, Pan American Health Organization, and
World Bank
Contact: Office of International Affairs, Sylvia Correa, 202-564-6443
Title: Mobile Source Program in India
Description: During the next three years, EPA will assist the City of Delhi, India, to
implement a program to phase out lead in gasoline and reduce motor
vehicle emissions. EPA experts will provide training, technical assistance,
and tools to national and municipal governments. Specific time frames are
set for elimination or reduction of targeted pollutants, including lead,
particulate matter, ozone, and hydrocarbons. One key benchmark will be
the successful elimination of lead from gasoline in India by 2000.
Partners: U.S. India Fund
Contact: Office of International Affairs, Jane Metcalfe, 202-564-645 1
EffECTS Of
Title: Pesticides Management Proj ect in Central America
Description: This program assists governments of Central American countries to
regulate, monitor, and ensure safe use of pesticides. The national program
focuses on building capacity to develop regulations for pesticide handling,
storage, and use. The community-level program targets agricultural workers
and public health and safety issues related to pesticide use. It focuses on
using protective equipment, safe pesticide handling and application, container
disposal, and avoiding pesticide contamination of drinking water.
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Partners: U.S. Agency for International Development
Contact: Office of International Affairs, Paul Almeida, 202-564-6453
iAl Risks FROM CONTAIN! NATEC! WATER
Title: U.S.-Canada Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA)
Description: Under this agreement, EPA and Environment Canada review, assess, and
report biennially on discharges of toxic substances and their effects in the
Great Lakes basin. A GLWQA Binational Strategy signed in April 1997
lists targeted persistent toxics and sets ambitious discharge reduction
goals to better protect women of childbearing age, pregnant women, and
children. These provisions are particularly targeted to minority cultures
dependent upon family subsistence fishing and other people who depend
on fish from the Great Lakes for food.
Partners: Environment Canada
Contact: Office of International Affairs, Pete Christich, 202-564-6404
Title: Microbiologically Safe-Drinking Water Laboratory Capacity in Latin
America
Description: EPA will provide technical assistance from its national laboratories to help
convert the Pan-American Health Organization's training laboratory in
Lima, Peru, to a microbiological drinking water reference laboratory
serving all of Latin America. Technical expertise, technology transfer,
and training will be provided to assist with monitoring programs and
certifying compliance with World Health Organization drinking water
quality guidelines.
Partners: World Health Organization and Pan-American Health Organization
Contact: Office of International Affairs, Martha Shimkin, 202-564-6453
Title: Municipal Water Management in Latin America
Description: This proj ect seeks to improve human health and child survival in Latin
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American and Caribbean countries through better access to microbiologi-
cally-safe drinking water. Activities include training Peace Corps volun-
teers on ways to improve drinking water supplies, protect watersheds, and
improve community sanitation and wastewater treatment practices.
Partners: U.S. Peace Corps
Contact: Office of International Affairs, Martha Shimkin, 202-564-6453
Title: The Central American Small Community Wastewater Treatment Project
Description: This project focuses on the use of appropriate wastewater treatment tech-
nologies to reduce microbiological contamination of water used for house-
hold purposes and to ensure safer water for communities downstream.
Partners: U.S. Agency for International Development
Contact: Office of International Affairs, Paul Almeida, 202-564-6402
Title: Semen Quality in 18 Year Olds and Air Pollution in Czech Republic
Description: This project is evaluating semen quality in 18 year olds and air pollution
levels in two districts of the Czech Republic: (1) Teplice, with high levels of
air pollution, and (2) Prachatice, with low levels. The air pollution levels
during the winter months in Teplice may reach extremely high levels. Data
were collected on men who took physical examinations prior to joining the
military. Sampling was conducted in early spring after three months of high
exposure, or in the fall after the relatively cleaner summer months. Each
man was interviewed, given a physical examination, and asked to provide
a semen sample. The results from the first phase of the study revealed
significant air pollution effects on sperm, including changes in cell structure
and mobility. A second phase has begun to study these relationships in
more depth.
Partners: Brno Veterinary Research Institute; Institute of Hygiene, Brno; South
Dakota State University; and University of North Carolina
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Sally Perreault Darney, 919-541 -
3826 or Sherry G. Selevan, 202-260-2604
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ElNViRONMENTAl EduCAliON
TO Chi Id REN'S
PURPOSES of ENVIRONMENTAL EducAiioN
As part of the National Agenda to Protect Children's Health from Environmental Threats,
EPA is working with health and environmental professionals to identify, prevent, and
reduce environmental health threats to children. Environmental education increases public
awareness and knowledge about environmental issues, and provides children, parents,
and communities with skills they need to make informed decisions. With education and
improved access to information, parents and community leaders can better understand
complex issues and find creative ways to improve the protection of children's health.
Congress recognized the importance of working with educators, parents, and children
when it passed the National Environmental Education Act in 1 990. This Act authorizes
grants to non-profit organizations and institutions. EPA awards $3 million annually to
support approximately 250 grants for environmental education projects. The majority of
grants are for small, local-level projects costing $5,000 or less. Current funding priorities
include projects that educate the public about human health problems caused by environ-
mental pollution, programs that educate young people, and teacher training.
A number of EPA's public information activities are described throughout previous chap-
ters, and additional resources, publications, and Internet sites are listed in Chapter 1 1 .
This section focuses on environmental education projects supported by EPA that help
teach children, parents, and educators about the environment. The projects encourage
students to become involved in community pollution prevention activities, and they often
lead to removal of environmental hazards in homes, schools, and communities.
How ENVIRONMENTAL EducAiioN ACTRESSES
ISSUES
EPA environmental education programs seek to empower Americans to make better
environmental decisions and participate in setting local and national priorities. The Agency
is working to inspire a sense of personal responsibility for the care of the environment
through relationships with environmental educators, students, media, non-profit institu-
tions, the private sector, and state and local governments.
EducAiiNq Chi Id REN
EPA believes that an environmentally-educated population starts with children. Environ-
mental education programs teach children about environmental health issues of interest to
them and their families, schools, and communities. Children learn about the effects of air
and water pollution. They learn about the importance of conserving resources for the
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future through pollution prevention, waste reduction, and recycling. Young people who
learn about environmental issues may want to participate in community environmental
programs and may influence their elders.
EducAiiNq PARENTS ANd TEACHERS
Environmental education programs provide knowledge that parents, educators, and
community leaders can use in simple, everyday ways to protect children from environmen-
tal hazards at home, at school, and at play. EPA has worked to educate parents and
teachers about potential environmental risks and how to avoid them. For instance, a
number of consumer information kits have been produced to help prevent exposures to
pesticides, lead, radon, environmental tobacco smoke, and other indoor air contaminants.
The Agency provides a focus on environmental justice issues through a special program of
grants for ethnically diverse and disadvantaged populations.
Sample EPA Education Programs Targeted to
Poor and Disadvantaged Communities
* The New Orleans Environmental Justice Education Teacher Training Program addresses
environmental health threats in the New Orleans area, especially those affecting children. The
Teacher Training Program focuses on environmental justice issues related to lead, air pollution,
asthma, pesticides, landfills, and abandoned urban industrial sites.
* The Youth Star environmental justice project in Revere, Massachusetts, provides hands-on
learning and encourages students to take an active role in environmental issues in their
community. The project trains students in disadvantaged and ethnically-diverse communities on
environmental health and community conservation work.
SUMMARY of EPA AcrivmEs
EPA supports quality environmental education programs by awarding grants to schools,
states, and non-profit organizations to help them improve educational programs. Special
emphasis is placed on developing interdisciplinary programs and training teachers and
other education professionals.
Human health, and especially children's health, is one of seven priorities for this year's
Environmental Education Grant Program. The program awards grants for environmental
education proj ects that enhance the public's ability to make responsible decisions affecting
ENVJRONMENTAI EducAiioN RE!ATEC| TO
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the quality of our environment. Colleges and universities, local and tribal education agencies,
state education and environmental agencies, non-profit organizations, and noncommercial
educational broadcasting stations may apply for funds under the program. These environ-
mental education projects reach teachers and students as well as the general public.
EPA encourages partnerships between the public and private sectors as a way to make
the most of scarce funds and help the environmental education community ensure quality
programs. The Global Rivers Environmental Education Network (GREEN) Leadership
Initiative, for example, is sponsored by an array of partners including major corporations,
government agencies, and environmental groups that support local efforts to address
water quality problems.
Under a cooperative agreement with the National Parent Teachers Association (NPTA), a
partnership has been formed to support the participation of local PTAs in the environmen-
tal management of homes, schools, communities, and ecosystems. PTA officials have
been trained as environmental leaders on topics such as air pollution, environmental
tobacco smoke, hazardous materials, emergency planning, indoor air quality, lead poison-
ing, pesticides, radon, solid waste, water pollution, and drinking water quality. NPTA has
developed an environmental mini-grant program to support the involvement of state PTAs
in environmental projects and programs. See Chapter 2 for more information on the
NPTA's activities.
EPA also is building stronger partnerships with other governmental organizations and the
private sector to improve public understanding of the role of science in environmental
decision making. Through the National Enforcement Training Institute (NETI), EPA
delivers courses on methods of preventing, investigating, and resolving violations of
environmental laws.
EPA is committed to supporting the development of quality education opportunities for all
citizens. The Agency expects to reach six million people—one-third of them under the
age of 18—with a series of segments on the Public Broadcasting Service's popular
Newton s Apple television show. The impact of the series will be heightened through an
outreach effort, including lessons in the Newton s Apple Teacher s Guide and a special
feature on the Newton's Apple World Wide Web site.
The principles of Environmental Justice—that all people must have the opportunity to live
in a healthy environment and that environmental laws apply without discrimination based
on race, ethnicity, culture, or economic status—guide EPA's efforts to promote increased
and improved access to education programs for the poor, immigrants, and ethnic and
racial minorities.
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EPA ENVIRONMENTAL EdlJCATiON PROJECTS
Title: Newton's Apple "Environmental Impacts on Children's Health"
Description: "Environmental Impacts on Children's Health" will be a series of three
short video segments on the Public Broadcasting System's Newton s
Apple television show, the most frequently viewed science program in
middle school classrooms. It is broadcast on approximately 300 stations
across the nation. The video segments educate viewers about environ-
mental health threats and strategies for minimizing children's exposure.
The project includes lessons in theNewton s Apple Teacher s Guide and
a special feature on the Newton's Apple World Wide Web site.
Partners: Twin Cities Public Television, Inc., KTCA-TV
Contact: Office of Communications, Education, and Media Relations, Diane Berger,
202-260-8747
Title: The GREEN Leadership Initiative
Description: The Global Rivers Environmental Education Network (GREEN) uses an
interdisciplinary education course that addresses water quality and its
effect on human health. A diverse audience of more than 100 educators,
10,000 students, and 100 community leaders in ten communities will be
targeted for training sessions to improve environmental education skills and
learn about watershed and health issues within their own communities.
Partners: General Motors Corporation, Owens Corning Corporation, George Gund
Foundation, National Fish and Wildlife Federation, National Science
Foundation, Budd/Deschutes Project GREEN (Washington State),
Friends of the Rouge (Michigan), Rivers Project of Lee County Schools
(Florida), Project del Rio (Texas and New Mexico), Project WET,
Susquehanna River Basin Project (New York), and World Resources
Institute
Contact: Office of Communications, Education, Medis Relations, Diane Berger,
202-260-8747
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Title: New Orleans Environmental Justice Education Teacher Training Program
Description: The Environmental Justice Education Teacher Training Program provides
an integrated curriculum with modules on issues affecting children's
environmental health in New Orleans. Topics include lead, air pollution
and asthma, pesticides, landfills, and brownfields. The project will
implement a curriculum that emphasizes environmental justice concerns,
train K-6 teachers on its use, and disseminate environmental justice
education materials to schools in the New Orleans area.
Partners: The Deep South Center for Environmental Justice, New Orleans Public
Schools, and National Lead Information Center
Contact: Office of Communications, Education, and Media Relations,
\Diane Berger, 202-260-8747
Title: Pollution Prevention Education Toolbox
Description: The Pollution Prevention Education Toolbox contains lesson plans and
educational activities related to water pollution prevention and conser-
vation, energy conservation, general pollution prevention, waste reduc-
tion, pesticide reduction, and household hazardous waste reduction.
Lessons include changing what you use, changing what you do, improv-
ing housekeeping, and educating yourself and others. Workshops for
middle school teachers from the Chicago Public Schools were con-
ducted in summer 1997.
Partners: Chicago Public Schools
Contact: RegionS, Dolly Tong, 312-886-1019
Title: Environmental Education Grants
Description: Grants awarded by EPA's Region 2 related to children's environmental
health include a childhood lead poisoning prevention program for
Patterson, New Jersey, and an indoor air pollution project for the St.
Regis Mohawk Tribe. EPA has awarded grants worth approximately $ 11
million to educational organizations in all 50 states and the District of
Columbia. Most grants are for $5,000 or less.
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Partners: Nearly 1,000 grantees including schools and universities; state, local, and
tribal government agencies; and non-profit organizations
Contact: Region 2, Terry Ippolito, 212-637-3671
Title: Give Water a Hand
Description: This camp educates high school students about water and the environment.
The goal of this grant is to improve citizen involvement and partnerships to
promote clean water.
Contact: Region 6, Karen Bick, 214-665-7539
Title: River Revitalization Program
Description: EPA will support the development of river revitalization proj ects that
directly involve Boston's youth in community environmental issues.
Partners: Boston Urban Resource Partnership and Massachusetts Riverways Program
Contact: Region 1, Angela Bonarrito, 617-565-2501
Title: Youth Star Program
Description: EPA is assisting the Youth Star environmental justice project through a
grant to train students in environmental education, environmental health
issues, and community conservation work in Revere, Massachusetts.
Partners: Youth Star Program
Contact: Region 1, Angela Bonarrito, 617-565-2501
Title: Teacher Training Program
Description: This project provides hands-on training and curriculum materials to 20
elementary school teachers to cultivate a natural vegetable and herb garden
with students on their school grounds. Children in participating schools will
learn about pollution prevention concepts and techniques related to water,
soils, and non-polluting alternatives to pesticides and herbicides.
Partners: University of Rhode Island Cooperative Extension Education Center
Contact: Region 1, Angela Bonarrito, 617-565-2501
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Title: Teacher Training Workshops
Description: EPA's regional office in New England periodically co-sponsors teacher
training workshops on indoor pollutants, air quality, wetlands, and other
environmental topics.
Contact: Region 1, Maria Pirie, 617-565-9447
Title: Youth and the Environment
Description: Students in the New England states work at summer j obs at a wastewater
treatment plant or a zoo and participate in weekly field trips and seminars
on topics ranging from wastewater management to restoration ecology.
During the summer of 1996,70 inner-city students were introduced to
environmental careers. Sixty disadvantaged students participated in the
program during 1997.
Contact: Region 1, Charles Conway, 617-565-3517
Title: That Magnificent Groundwater Connection
Description: This is a resource package for teachers with stories, experiments, and
songs to teach children about water. Children learn about water's cyclical
movement through the environment; the connections between water and
the streams, lakes, estuaries, and wetlands near their homes; where
drinking water comes from; and how to be better environmental stewards.
The K-6 curriculum has been distributed to teacher organizations in New
England.
Contact: Region 1, Mary Jo Fuerbach, 617-565-4721
Title: A World in Our Backyard/Adopt-a-Wetland Program
Description: This two-part, hands-on project for middle school and high school
students includes an educational curriculum with videos and a teacher's
guide with activities. The "Adopt a Wetland" program teaches children
about wetland ecology by helping them protect an area in their own
community through stewardship activities conducted with their classes.
Contact: Region 1, Stafford Madison, 617-565-4868
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Title: Junior Environmental Training (JET) Program
Description: Groups of EPA staff volunteers perform skits on hazardous waste and
recycling at schools, daycare centers, and environmental events in New
England. Hundreds of students in grades K-8 have attended and partici-
pated in these skits.
Contact: Region 1, Maria Pirie, 617-565-9447
Title: Save the Sound
Description: One hundred upper-elementary school teachers from communities within the
Long Island Sound watershed will be trained on preservation and restoration
of the Sound. They also will incorporate information on the Sound into their
curricula. Teachers at five locations within the watershed will receive
hands-on training about the Sound, its watershed, and water quality.
Partners: Save the Sound, Inc. and University of Connecticut
Contact: Region 1, Maria Pirie, 617-565-9447
Title: Appalachian Mountain Club
Description: This community-based conservation project teaches outreach and advo-
cacy skills through the process of planning, promoting, and implementing a
neighborhood environmental service project in the disadvantaged and
culturally diverse community of Chelsea, Massachusetts. The project
provides training to enable youth to pursue employment in the environmen-
tal and recreational fields and also helps young people create a community
base for maintaining local parks and green spaces.
Partners: City of Chelsea, Massachusetts
Contact: Region 1, Maria Pirie, 617-565-9447
Title: Harvard Human Health and the Environment Project
Description: This hands-on educational program brings high quality instruction about
human health and the environment to inner-city school children. By sharing
technical expertise with teachers and students, the project will increase
awareness of the environment and its effects on health among fifth grade
public school students.
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Partners: Harvard University School of Public Health
Contact: Region 1, Maria Pirie, 617-565-9447
Title: E.N. Rogers Environmental School
Description: This project educates teachers, students, and the public about human
health problems caused by pollution. The E.N. Rogers Environmental
School will use an environmental curriculum that will allow students to: (1)
correlate the effects of water quality on an urban river; (2) collaborate via
the Internet with students from Great Britain on historical comparative
research; and (3) develop critical thinking, problem solving, decision
making, and laboratory skills.
Partners: Lowell Public Schools, in collaboration with several partners
Contact: Region 1, Maria Pirie, 617-565-9447
Title: The Connections Project
Description: This project will complete the "Taunton River Watershed Connections
Curriculum" and teacher resource kit for grades 6-12. The project will
provide a model for watershed pollution prevention to schools and local
communities. The Connections Project team of scientists and educators
will finalize the curriculum. Workshops will provide training on the
curriculum for teachers throughout the Taunton River watershed.
Partners: University of Massachusetts Extension Service
Contact: Region 1, Maria Pirie, 617-565-9447
Title: Teacher Training on Integrated Pest Management and Pesticides
Description: New Hampshire's state association of Future Farmers of America will
educate high school teachers about integrated pestmanagement (IPM) and
pesticides in the environment. An initial workshop for 30 teachers will show
them how to integrate instructional materials on pesticides and IPM into
existing curricula. Teachers will receive further assistance through follow-up
visits that will gauge additional teacher and student needs.
Partners: Granite State Association of Future Farmers of America
Contact: Region 1, Maria Pirie, 617-565-9447
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Title: Active Watershed Education (AWEsome!) Program
Description: The Active Watershed Education (AWEsome!) curriculum provides future
stewards of the Narrow River and Saugatucket River watersheds with the
skills needed to make informed decisions about local environmental issues.
The program will revise existing watershed-specific curriculum guides and
train 20 upper-elementary and middle school teachers to use the curricu-
lum. The project assists teachers and their students in assessing local
environmental issues and conducting student-driven community action
projects related to these issues.
Partners: Southern Rhode Island Conservation District
Contact: Region 1, Maria Pirie, 617-565-9447
Title: Water Quality Information Sharing Program
Description: Teachers and students from Rhode Island and Columbia, South America,
learn about water quality, perform water quality monitoring, and share
information. Seven teachers and 240 6th to 1 Oth grade students from
Rhode Island and three teachers with 120 students from Columbia partici-
pated in the 1996-97 school-year program by monitoring and working to
preserve a river near their respective schools.
Partners: Rhode Island Zoological Society Roger Williams Park Zoo
Contact: Region 1, Maria Pirie, 617-565-9447
Title: Aquatic Education Exhibit
Description: Region 6 awarded a grant to the Jasmine Moran Children's Museum in
Seminole, Oklahoma, to refurbish an aquatic education exhibit that will use
hands-on scientific methods to teach about water pollution problems.
Large tanks filled with water, fish, and plants show the effect of a polluted
environment and how "bad water" can be turned into "good water." Forty
thousand students are expected to visit annually.
Partners: Jasmine Moran Children's Museum
Contact: Region 6, Joe Taylor, 214-665-2200
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Title: Environmental Awareness and Testing Program
Description: Region 6 awarded a grant to the Zachary Historical Association for an
"Environmental Awareness and Testing" program that will involve ap-
proximately 1,000 students, including children with disabilities. The
students will learn environmental research and monitoring techniques
through hands-on experiences at this unique facility.
Partners: Zachary Historical Association
Contact: Region 6, Joe Taylor, 214-665-2200
Title: Philadelphia Public Environmental Education Center
Description: A Public Environmental Education Center in downtown Philadelphia
educates the public about dangers to health posed by various environ-
mental hazards. The center regularly hosts groups of school children,
distributes publications, and operates a toll-free customer service hotline.
Contact: Region 3, Rene Henry, 215-566-5560
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Public ACCESS TO I N FORMATION
TO PROTECT
Chi Id REN'S
EPA is rapidly expanding the public's right-to-know about environmental pollutants in
their community. Families and communities need the information to make informed
decisions about how to protect children from the potential health risks posed by pollutants
released in their neighborhood. In keeping with community right-to-know principles in the
Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA), EPA has expanded
public access to Agency information on pollution, particularly through the Internet. Par-
ents can use this information to help prevent pollution in their neighborhoods and protect
the health of the community's children. EPA initiatives that improve public access to
information on pollution include:
• In 1 993 , EPA nearly doubled the chemicals on which industry must provide
information about toxic releases. Over 600 chemicals are now included in EPA's
Toxic Release Inventory (TRI).
• In 1 996, EPA expanded the categories of industrial facilities required to disclose
information about toxic releases by 30 percent, bringing the total to more than 3 1 ,000
facilities that must report their toxic emissions to the public.
• The 1 996 Amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act require water suppliers to
provide consumer confidence reports to their customers, including information on
local water quality, sources of drinking water, drinking water contaminants, and health
risks posed by local water (see chapter 6).
• The 1 996 Food Quality Protection Act includes special right-to-know provisions
that provide more public information about risks from pesticides on foods (see Chapter 5).
• To protect children from lead-based paint poisoning, EPA and the Department of
Housing and Urban Development recently required sellers and landlords of pre- 1 978
housing to disclose any known lead-based paint to home buyers, allowing potential
buyers the option of conducting a lead hazard assessment (see Chapter 4).
• EPA and other federal agencies, in cooperation with medical organizations,
meteorologists, and educators, have created anew federal Ultraviolet (UV) Index
program to provide information needed to protect children from overexposure to
harmful ultraviolet light (see Chapter 3).
• EPA has developed a national listing of Fish Consumption Advisories that makes
information about state-issued fish consumption advisories more accessible to the
public (see Chapter 11).
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• In 1997, EPA began collecting beach monitoring and closure information and making
it available to the public. Eventually, the information will be compiled in a database
and included with other information on a World Wide Web site on beach health (see
Chapter 6).
• EPA has produced a number of consumer information kits on preventing exposures to
lead, radon, other indoor air contaminants, and pesticides in neighborhood homes and
schools (see Chapter 2).
• EPA recently began a Consumer Labeling Initiative to expand the amount of hazard
and health information on household consumer and pesticide product labels (see
Chapters).
EPA COMMUNITY Riqhi'TO'KNOW AcrivmEs
EPA is responsible for implementing the provisions of EPCRA. The legislation mandates
the improvement of the Toxic Release Inventory. The TRI is a national database that
provides the public with annual information on the environmental release of over 600 toxic
chemicals commonly used by industry. More than 31,000 industrial facilities across the
country are required to provide EPA with reports on the types and amounts of chemicals
they release to the air, land, and water. The reports are presented in an easy to follow
format and are made available to the public through on-line services, such as the National
Library of Medicine (NLM) and the Right-to-Know Network (RTK-NET), public
libraries, and EPA.
EPA has adopted a broad focus for TRI to meet the needs of communities, local govern-
ments, academia, industry, and public policy groups. Because of TRI's reporting require-
ments, hazardous emissions have been reduced by 61 percent since 1987. EPA will use
the TRI program to ensure that parents, teachers, and health care providers are aware of
all sources of contamination that may affect children's health.
President Clinton is directing federal agencies to build on the success of the right-to-know
laws and develop proposals to provide families with better information about the risks they
face from toxics and other hazards. This initiative will include common-sense and cost-
effective ways to assist parents in avoiding environmental health risks to children from
products and chemicals. The initiative also provides information on environmental health
risks, such as cancer, developmental, hormonal, and reproductive risks. This information
encourages informed consumer choices.
The President directed EPA to work with other federal, state, and local agencies to
establish a nationwide network for observing key environmental health indicators in the air,
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land, and water. Families willhaveaccesstothe timely health-related data generated
from these observations. They may then use the information to make informed choices
that directly affect themselves. For instance, timely information on air quality can mean the
difference between hospitalization and a healthy day for an asthmatic child.
New Orleans Children Aged 6 and Under
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Environmental health indicators are being developed for use in detecting trends in public
health impacts of environmental contaminants. This includes developing an aggregated index
of environmental health conditions for children. EPA Region 3 has produced a vulnerability
index based on information contained in the TRI. The vulnerability index provides a descrip-
tion of socioeconomic and demographic characteristics that may render a subpopulation
(e.g., children) more susceptible than the general population. A similar geographic informa-
tion system (GIS) maintained by Region 6 can evaluate the potential occurrence of respira-
tory diseases, lead exposures, and waterborne diseases in local communities, and can be
used to warn communities of potential health problems for their children. A sample of the
demographic information available through the GIS is shown in the graph above.
EPA also monitors regulatory compliance. EPA enforcement personnel conduct routine
monitoring and oversight of the data submitted by facilities for the TRI to detect facilities
that fail to report as required, to identify waste streams that should have been reported and
were not, and to evaluate the integrity of the data submitted to EPA.
EPA COMMUNITY Riqhi'TO'KNOW PROJECTS
Title: Toxic Release Inventory
Description: The Toxic Release Inventory is a national database that provides the public
with annual release information on over 600 toxic chemicals commonly
used by U.S. industry. This inventory requires that each of 31,000
industrial facilities across the nation provide EPA with chemical-specific
reports on the amount of chemicals they release to the air, land, and water.
The reports are made available to the public in a variety of means, includ-
ing on-line services, public libraries, and by request, from EPA. As part of
ongoing efforts to enhance family right-to-know, EPA is developing TRI
chemical fact sheets for parents and a Sector Facility Indexing project that
will provide profiles of the environmental performance of five major
industries.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Darlene Dinkins,
703-305-5214
Title: Enforcement Activities to Help Ensure Compliance with the Emergency
Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA)
Description: Over the past several years, EPA has initiated a focused enforcement effort
aimed at improving the regulated community's rate of compliance with both
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the emergency planning requirements and the community right-to-know
components of EPCRA. For example, each of the ten EPA regional offices
reviews databases to detect TRI non-reporters, responds to tips and
complaints of potential violations, evaluates the quality of data submitted by
the regulated community, and issues enforcement actions for violations.
These actions are designed to improve the overall completeness and
accuracy of the public inventory of toxic emissions in communities.
Contact: Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance, Dean Ziegel, 202-
564-4038
Title: Potential Exposure to Environmentally Released Chemicals and Child-
hood Cancer
Description: This project is an analysis of chemical releases, as documented in the
Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) database, and childhood cancer mortality
rates for children between the ages of one and 19 in the United States.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Denise Lewis, 919-966-63 85
Title: Children's Environmental Health Index for the United States
Description: EPA is developing environmental indicators to detect trends in public
health impacts of environmental contaminants and assess whether environ-
mental programs are protecting the health of the public and our children.
The results will be used to develop an index of health impacts on children.
The indicators will help identify the environmental chemicals that can
contribute to adverse health effects. An air index will be developed to
provide an aggregate estimate of exposure to all six criteria air pollutants.
Respiratory diseases in children will be included. Future work will
consider other children's health outcomes, such as cancer and develop-
mental effects.
Partners: World Resources Institute and School of Public Health at the University
of California, Berkeley
Contact: Office of Policy, Tracy Woodruff, 202-260-6669
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Title: Chemical Indexing System for Toxic Release Inventory, Part It:
Vulnerability Index
Description: The vulnerability index provides a description of socioeconomic character-
istics that may render a subpopulation more susceptible to toxic releases
than the general population. It includes income and minority status as well
as methods for considering other factors, including number of persons age
14 or under, that may influence the vulnerability of subpopulations. The
index will be used in conjunction with Part I of the Chemical Indexing
System to estimate the relative hazard of chemical releases.
Contact: Region 3, Debra Forman, 215-566-2073
Title: Use of a Geographic Information System (GIS) to Gather and Analyze
Information for Regional Programs
Description: A GIS system maintained by EPA Region 6 includes community-level data
associated with economic status, minority representation, proximity to
known pollution sources, cumulative impact concerns, enforcement
activities, and other environmental parameters. The analytical capabilities
of the system can improve awareness of children's issues. Maps indicate
areas of concern for environmental problems and children's health. The
system can evaluate the potential for respiratory diseases, lead exposures,
and waterborne diseases and relate them to areas where many families
with children are likely to reside. Vulnerability factors, such as low eco-
nomic status, also can be considered. The system can access state health
monitoring and epidemiology information that can be used to show rela-
tionships among environmental exposures, population characteristics, and
children's diseases.
Contact: Region 6, Gerald Carney, 214-665-6523
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Title: Consumer Labeling Initiative
Description: In 1995, EPA began its Consumer Labeling Initiative to develop labeling
for products that is easy to understand and allows parents to make more
informed choices. EPA has initiated a pilot proj ect focused on indoor
insecticides, outdoor pesticides, and household antimicrobial products—
all products that are present in children's environments.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Darlene Dinkins,
703-305-5214
Title: Poison Prevention
Description: Accidental poisoning from pesticide chemicals around the household
remains a serious concern for children. EPA is an active member of the
Poison Prevention Council, and annually distributes thousands of fact
sheets on pesticides and child safety to medical establishments and the
general public. As a result of the Poison Prevention Week outreach in
1995, EPA sent a poison prevention message to 3.5 million television
viewers.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Darlene Dinkins,
703-305-5214
Title: Consumer Pesticide Right-to-Know Brochure
Description: The FQPA requires that EPA develop an annual brochure that discusses
the risks and benefits of pesticides. The brochure will be distributed
through large retail grocers and will provide information for consumers on
how they can reduce their exposure to pesticide residues on food. This
program will allow parents to make more informed choices for their
families.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Darlene Dinkins,
703-305-5214
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RESOURCES
This chapter contains sources of additional information, lists of EPA publications related to
children's health topics, and references for hotlines and Internet resources. Most of the
resources listed below focus specifically on children or issues of primary importance during
the developmental years. Others address EPA efforts to protect the environment where
children live, learn, and play. The listing is not intended to be exhaustive, but to allow
readers to better understand how to protect children's health.
CONTACT! Nq EPA
For additional information on the EPA children's environmental health projects inventoried in
this document, you may call the individuals listed as contacts for each project. To contact
other individuals and offices within the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, address all
correspondence using the following addresses and telephone numbers:
EPA HEAdQUARTERS
Environmental Protection Agency
401 M Street, S.W.
Washington, DC 20460
Administrator's Hotline: 202-260-1000
Toll Free Number: 888-372-8255
Internet: http://www.epa.gov
Children's Health Web page: http://www.epa.gov/children
EPA ReqioNs
Region 1 (Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut)
Environmental Protection Agency
One Congress Street
JohnF. Kennedy Building
Boston, MA 02203-0001
Phone:617-565-3420
Fax:617-565-3660
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/regionl
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Region 2 (New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands)
Environmental Protection Agency
290 Broadway
New York, NY 10007-1866
Phone:212-637-3000
Fax:212-637-3526
Communications Division: 212-637-3660
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/region2
Region 3 (Pennsylvania, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia,
West Virginia)
Environmental Protection Agency
841 Chestnut Building
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone:215-566-5000
Fax:215-566-5103
Customer Service Center: 800-438-2474
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/region3
Region 4 (Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi,
Alabama, Georgia, Florida)
Environmental Protection Agency
6IForsyth Street, S.W.
Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone: 404-562-9900
Fax:404-562-8174
Public Affairs and Information: 404-562-8327
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/region4
Region 5 (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, Ohio)
Environmental Protection Agency
77 West Jackson Boulevard
Chicago, IL 60604-3507
Phone:312-353-2000
Fax:312-353-4135
Toll Free Number: 800-621 -8431
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/region5
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Region 6 (New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana)
Environmental Protection Agency
Fountain Place 12th Floor, Suite 1200
1445 Ross Avenue
Dallas, TX 75202-2733
Phone: 214-665-6444
Fax:214-665-7113
General Information: 214-665-2200
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/earthlr6/index.htm
Region 7 (Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri)
Environmental Protection Agency
726 Minnesota Avenue
Kansas City, KS 66101
Phone:913-551-7000
Fax:913-551-7467
Toll Free Number: 800-223-0425
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/region7
Region 8 (Montana, North Dakota, Wyoming, South Dakota, Utah, Colorado)
Environmental Protection Agency
999 18th Street, Suite 500
Denver, CO 80202-2466
Phone:303-312-6312
Fax:303-312-6339
Environmental Information Service Center: 800-227-8917
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/region8
Region 9 (California, Nevada, Arizona, Hawaii)
Environmental Protection Agency
75 Hawthorne Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
Phone:415-744-1305
Fax:415-744-2499
General Public Inquiries: 415-744-1500
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/region9
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Region 10 (Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Alaska)
Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Sixth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98101
Phone: 206-553-1200
Fax:206-553-0149
Toll Free Number: 800-424-9372
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/regionlO
EPA also operates a number of hotlines and clearinghouses. Those that offer publications
and information relevant to topics covered in this report are listed in the appropriate
sections below. For information on other EPA offices, locations, public information
centers, hotlines, and clearinghouses, check the EPA home page or call the regional office
nearest you.
EPA PublicAiioNs
EPA is making important progress to provide the public with information to protect
children's health. The following tables list Web addresses for obtaining EPA information
and direct links to other resources available on the Internet. It is also possible to call or
write EPA to request copies of documents. General sources of EPA documents include:
• The National Center for Environmental Publications and Information (NCEPI) is a
central repository for all EPA documents, with over 5,500 titles in paper and electronic
format available for distribution (usually at no cost to the public). Individuals can
browse and search EPA's National Publications Catalog, and order EPA Publications
online or by telephone at 800-490-9198. The EPA publication number (e.g., EPA
999-F-99-999) is used to identify the resource.
NCEPI
National Center for Environmental Publications and Information
P.O. Box 42419
Cincinnati, OH 45242-2419
Phone: 800-490-9198
Fax:513-489-8695
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/ncepihom
Some documents not available free of charge through NCEPI can be obtained for a
charge through the Government Printing Office (GPO) or the National Technical Informa-
tion Service (NTIS).
RESOURCES
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• NTIS is a central resource for government-sponsored U.S. and international scientific,
technical, engineering, and business-related information. As a self-supporting agency
of the U.S. Department of Commerce, NTIS covers its business and operating
expenses with the sale of its products and services. For EPA publications, NTIS
indexes publications by their EPA publication number, complete title, and by an NTIS
product number. NTIS accepts VISA and MasterCard.
NTIS
National Technical Information Center
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield, VA 22151
Phone to Order: 800-553-6847 or 703-605-6000
Fax:703-321-8547
E-Mail Online Ordering: orders@ntis.fedworld.gov
Internet: http://www.ntis.gov
• Documents available from the Government Printing Office can be obtained for a fee
by calling or writing to the address below. GPO also accepts VISA and MasterCard.
Place orders by title or appropriate order number.
U.S. Government Printing Office
Superintendent of Documents
PO Box 371954
Pittsburgh, PA 15250-7954
Phone:202-512-1800
Fax:202-512-2250
Internet: http ://www.access .gpo .gov/su_docs/sale/prf/prf.html
Additional publications and interlibrary loans of EPA documents are available through the
EPA library system. The EPA Headquarters Information Resources Center provides
access to EPA information for U. S. and international requests, and has a range of infor-
mation services consisting of environmental and related subjects, including online searching
of commercial databases. The focus of the EPA collection is on environmental regula-
tions, policy, planning, and administration. The library also maintains a large collection of
EPA documents on microfiche and in hard copy. Libraries are located in EPA regional
offices and laboratories across the country. For information contact:
165
RESOURCES
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EPA ChildREN's ENVIRONMENTA! HEAlih YEARbook
.-..v-
Headquarters Information Resources Center
Environmental Protection Agency
40 1M Street, S.W.
Washington, DC 20460
Phone:202-260-5921
Fax:202-260-5153
E-mail: library-hq@epamail.epa.gov
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/natlibra
EPA MATERiAls, Tools, AN(J INTERNET RESOURCES RElATE(J TO
Chi Id REN'S
This section contains information resources specific to the health effects and environmental
contaminants addressed in the Children s Environmental Health Yearbook. Under each
topic, general resources — such as hotlines and clearinghouses — are listed first, followed by
an alphabetical listing of relevant EPA publications. For each document, one or more
sources for obtaining the information is indicated in the right hand column. Sources may be
one of the major document distribution centers or EPA offices listed above, an Internet site
address, or one of the topic-specific clearinghouses or hotlines. A specific individual
contact and telephone number are provided where needed.
ASTHMA ANd OT^ER RESpiRATORy EffECis
iNfoRMATJON RESOURCES foR lN(JoOR AJR
Indoor Air Quality Information Clearinghouse (IAQINFO)
P.O. Box 37 133
Washington, DC 20013-7133
Phone: 800-438-4318; 202-484-1307
Fax:202-484-1510
E-mail: iaqinfo@aol.com
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/iaq/iaq-pubs.html
The IAQ Information Clearinghouse provides information pertaining to indoor air pollut-
ants, their sources, health effects, and methods for testing, measuring, and controlling
indoor air pollution. Information about maintaining homes, schools, and other buildings to
minimize indoor air quality problems is available.
RESOURCES
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EPA ChildREN's ENVIRONMENTA! HEAlih YEARbook
Indoor Air Quality Publications and Sources
Publication
A Special Alert for People with Asthma in the
Northeast Ohio Area (EPA 905-K-OO1, May 1997)
A Special Alert for People with Asthma in the
Greater Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky
Metropolitan Area (EPA 905-K-002, May 1997)
A Special Alert for People with Asthma in the
Greater St. Louis Metropolitan Area
(EPA 905-K-003, May 1997)
A Special Alert for People with Asthma in the
Chicago Metropolitan Area and Northwest
Indiana (EPA 905-K-004, May 1997)
A Special Alert for People with Asthma in
Southeast Wisconsin (EPA 905-K-005, May 1997)
Asthma, Air Quality, and Environmental Justice:
EPA's Role in Asthma Education and Prevention
(EPA 402-F-95-001, July 1995, IAQ-0084)
Carpet and Indoor Air Quality Fact Sheet
(EPA 402-F-94-011, October 1992, IAQ-0040)
Cual es el problema con el aire?
(EPA 905-K-97-004S, July 1997)
Flood Cleanup: Avoiding Indoor Air Quality
Problems Fact Sheet (EPA 402-F-93-005,
August 1993, IAQ-0061)
Source
Region 5, Indoor Air
Coordinator, 312-353-2205
Region 5, Indoor Air
Coordinator, 312-353-2205
Region 5, Indoor Air
Coordinator, 312-353-2205
Region 5, Indoor Air
Coordinator, 312-353-2205
Region 5, Indoor Air
Coordinator, 312-353-2205
IAQINFO
IAQINFO
Region 5, Indoor Air
Coordinator, 312-353-2205
IAQINFO
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Publication
How Healthy Is the Air in Your Home? A
Room-by-Room Checklist for Your Home's
Indoor Air Quality (EPA 402-F-97-001)
IAQ Tools for Schools Action Kit
IAQ Tools for Schools-Ventilation Basics (video)
Indoor Air Pollution: An Introduction for Health
Professionals. (GPO 1994-523-217/81322)
Indoor Air Quality Basics for Schools Fact Sheet
(EPA 402-F-96-004, October 1996, IAQ-0095)
Protect Your Family and Yourself from Carbon
Monoxide Poisoning (EPA 402-F-96-005,
October 1996) in Spanish
(EPA 402-F-97-004, July 1997)
Residential Air Cleaners Fact Sheet
(EPA 20A-4001, February 1990, IAQ-0007)
Sick Building Syndrome Fact Sheet
(EPA 402-F-94-004, April 1991, IAQ-0004)
Source
IAQINFO
All except the problem
solving wheel and
video available at
http://www.envirovillage.com/
tools/NDefaulthtm.
GPO sells the complete kit
and extra wheels.
IAQINFO
IAQINFO
IAQINFO
IAQINFO
(This fact sheet also is
available in Vietnamese,
Chinese, and Korean.)
IAQINFO
IAQINFO
RESOURCES
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EPA ChildREN's ENVIRONMENTA! HEAlih YEARbook
Publication
Targeting Indoor Air Pollution: EPA's Approach
and Progress (EPA 400-R-92-012, March 1993)
The Inside Story: A Guide to Indoor Air Quality
(EPA 402-K-93-007, April 1995, IAQ-0009)
Use and Care of Home Humidifiers Fact Sheet
(EPA 402-F-94-010, February 1991, IAQ-0008)
Ventilation and Air Quality in Offices Fact Sheet
(EPA 402-F-94-003, July 1990, IAQ-0003)
What You Should Know about Combustion
Appliances and Indoor Air Pollution
(EPA 400-F-91-100)
Source
IAQINFO
IAQINFO
IAQINFO
IAQINFO
IAQINFO
RESOURCES FOR OurdooR AJR PollimoN
Office of Air and Radiation
Office of Mobile Sources
2565 Plymouth Road
Ann Arbor, MI 48105-2498
Phone:313-668-4207
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/OMSWWW/consumer.htm
National Vehicle and Fuel Emissions Laboratory (NVFEL)
2565 Plymouth Road
Ann Arbor, MI 48105-2498
Phone:313-668-4311
Fax:313-668-4368
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Outdoor Air Pollution Publications and Sources
Publication
Air Toxics from Motor Vehicles
(EPA 400-F-92-004, Fact Sheet OMS-2,
August 1994)
Automobile Emissions: An Overview
(EPA 400-F-92-007, Fact Sheet OMS-5,
August 1994)
Automobiles and Carbon Monoxide
(EPA 400-F-92-005, Fact Sheet OMS-3,
January 1993)
Be a Grower Not a Mower Fact Sheet
(EPA420-F-96-018)
Boating Pollution Prevention Tips Fact Sheet
(EPA 420-F-96-003)
Car Owners: Protect the Environment and Your
Health, Don't Tamper With Emissions Controls!
(EPA 420-F-93-004)
Commute Alternative Brochure (EPA 420-F-95-011)
Commute Alternative Poster (EPA 420-H-95-002)
Control of Emissions fromNonroad Engines Fact
Sheet (EPA 420-F-96-009)
Source
NVFEL or http://www.epa.gov/
OMSWWW/ consumerhtm
NVFEL or http://www.epa.gov/
OMSWWW/consumer.htm
NVFEL or http://www.epa.gov/
OMSWWW/consumer.htm
NVFEL or http://www.epa.gov/
OMSWWW/consumer.htm
NVFEL or http://www.epa.gov/
OMSWWW/consumer.htm
NVFEL or http://www.epa.gov/
OMSWWW/consumer.htm
NVFEL or http://www.epa.gov/
OMSWWW/consumer.htm
NVFEL or http://www.epa.gov/
OMSWWW/consumer.htm
NVFEL or http://www.epa.gov/
OMSWWW/consumer.htm
RESOURCES
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Publication
Health and Environmental Effects of Participate
Matter, July 1997
Nonroad Engines and Air Pollution: An Overview
(EPA 420-F-94-003)
Tips For Reducing Fuel Spillage Fact Sheet
(EPA 420-F-96-002)
Tips to Save Gas and Improve Mileage
(EPA 420-F-94-004)
What You Can Do to Reduce Air Pollution: A
Citizens Guide to What Individuals and
Communities Can Do to Help Meet the Goals of
the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990
(EPA 450-K-92-002)
Your Car or Truck and the Environment: An
Environmental Guide for Owners and Drivers of
Cars, Trucks, and Other Motor Vehicles
(EPA 420-K-93-001)
Your Car and Clean Air: What YOU Can Do to
Reduce Pollution (EPA 400-F-93-002, Fact Sheet
OMS-18, August 1994)
Your Yard and Clean Air
(EPA 420-F-94-002, September 1996)
Source
http://ttnwww.rtpnc.epa.gov/
naaqsfin/pmhealth.htm
NVFEL or http://www.epa.gov/
OMSWWW/consumer.htm
NVFEL or http://www.epa.gov/
OMSWWW/consumer.htm
NVFEL or http://www.epa.gov/
OMSWWW/consumer.htm
NCEPI
NCEPI
NVFEL or http://www.epa.gov/
OMSWWW/consumer.htm
NVFEL or http://www.epa.gov/
OMSWWW/consumer.htm
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iNfoRMATJON RESOURCES foR GROUNcI'LEVEl OZONE
Office of Air and Radiation
Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards
Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
Phone:919-541-5616
Ground-Level Ozone home page: http://www.epa.gov/airprogm/oar/oaqps/ozone.html
AIRLinks: http://www.epa.gov/oar/oaqps/airlink
Region 1
New England's Air Quality Hotline: 800-821 -1237
Anne Arnold, Air Quality Planning Unit, Office of Ecosystem Protection, 617-565-3166
Ground-Level Ozone Information Web Page: http://www.epa.gov/regionO 1/eco/ozone/
index.html
Ground-Level Ozone Publications and Sources
Publication
Automobiles and Ozone (EPA 400-F-92-006, Fact
Sheet OMS-4, January 1993)
Ground-Level Ozone Air Quality Guide
Health and Environmental Effects of Ground-Level
Ozone Fact Sheet, July 1997
Ozone Action Days (EPA 905-K-96-001)
Ozone Action Days: A Special Alert for People with
Asthma and Other Respiratory Problems
(EPA 905-F-95-001, May 1995)
Source
http://www.epa.gov/
OMSWWW/consumer.htm
Region 1 , Anne Arnold, Air
Quality Planning Unit, Office of
Ecosystem Protection,
617-565-3166
http://ttnwww.rtpnc.epa.gov/
naaqsfin/o3health.htm
Region 5, http://www.epa.gov/
region05/air/naaqs/ozoneday.htm
RegionS, http://www.epa.gov/
region05/air/naaqs/ozoneday.htm
RESOURCES
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Publication
Ozone Action Days: A Special Alert for Asthmatics
and Persons with Respiratory Illness: Lake Erie
Pamphlet
Ozone Action Days: A Special Alert for Asthmatics
and Persons with Respiratory Illness: Lake
Michigan Pamphlet
Ozone Action! For Better Health in Southeast
Michigan (EPA 905-K-007, May 1997)
Safety Tips for Protecting Your Children (Ozone)
Source
RegionS, http://www.epa.gov/
region05/air/naaqs/ozonedayhtm
RegionS, http://www.epa.gov/
region05/air/naaqs/ozoneday.htm
Region 5, http://www.epa.gov/
region05/air/naaqs/ozoneday.htm
RegionS, http://www.epa.gov/
region05/air/naaqs/ozoneday.htm
Childhood CANCER
RESOURCES FOR RAC!ON
Indoor Air Quality Information Clearinghouse (IAQ Information)
Radon Information Clearinghouse
Phone: 800-55-RADON
IAQ Radon Publications Web Site: http://www.epa.gov/iaq/radon/pubs/index.html
171
Radon Publications and Sources
Publication
A Radon Guide for Tenants
All About Radon (coloring book; English and
Spanish)
Source
IAQ Radon Pubs Web Site
Radon Information Clearinghouse
Region 7, http://www.epa.gov/
region07/kids/aar.htm
ChildREN's HEAlrh RESOURCES
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EPA ChildREN's ENVIRONMENTA! HEAlih YEARbook
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Publication
Baby Radon Public Service Announcement, 1995
Basic Information on Radon Resistant New
Construction (pamphlet)
Citizen's Guide to Radon: The Guide to Protecting
Yourself and Your Family from Radon, Second
Edition, (EPA402-K-92-001, September 1994)
(in Spanish: EPA402-K-93-005, September 1993)
Consumer Federation of America Radon Public
Service Announcement (video)
Consumer's Guide to Radon Reduction: How to
Reduce Radon Levels in Your Home
(EPA 402-K92-003, August 1992, GPO Order
Number ISBN: 0-16-036255-5)
Dust Particles—Radon Public Service
Announcement, 1996 (in English and Spanish)
Home Buyer's and Seller's Guide to Radon
(EPA 402-R-93-003, March 1993)
Lung Radon Poster
My Radon Coloring Book
Source
IAQINFO
http ://www.epa.gov/
iaq/construc.html
IAQ Radon Pubs Web Site
Radon Information
Clearinghouse
NCEPI
IAQINFO
IAQ Radon Pubs Web Site
Radon Information
Clearinghouse
GPO
IAQINFO
IAQ Radon Pubs Web Site
Radon Information
Clearinghouse
GPO
IAQINFO
Region 7 http://www.epa.gov/
regionOV/kids/mrcb 1 .htm
RESOURCES
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Publication
Radon Measurement in Schools: Revised Edition
Booklet (EPA 402-R-92-014, July 1993)
Radon Measurement in Schools, Self-Paced
Training Workbook (EPA 402-B-94-001)
Radon in Schools Brochure, Second Edition
(EPA 402-F-94-009, October 1994)
Radon Resistant New Construction in
Homes (brochure)
Radon: Risks and Realities (August 13,1996)
Radon Video (also available in Spanish)
Reducing Radon Risks (EPA 520-1-89-027,
September 1992)
Reducing Radon in Schools: A Team Approach
(EPA 402-R-94-008, April 1994)
The Radon Student Activity Book
Source
IAQ Radon Pubs Web Site
Radon Information
Clearinghouse
NCEPI
IAQ Radon Pubs Web Site
Radon Information
Clearinghouse
IAQ Radon Pubs Web Site
Radon Information
Clearinghouse
IAQINFO
IAQINFO
IAQ Radon Pubs Web Site
Radon Information
Clearinghouse
IAQ Radon Pubs Web Site
Radon Information
Clearinghouse
IAQINFO
175
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iNfoRMATJON RESOURCES foR AsbESTOS
Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Hotline
Phone: 202-554-1404
Fax: 202-554-5603
Asbestos Publications and Sources
Publication
Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act
Q & A (EPA 745-K-93-023)
Asbestos in the Home: A Homeowner's Guide
(EPA 910-K-92-001, August 1992)
Asbestos in Your Home (brochure,
EPA 745-F-93-006)
Asbestos Fact Book (EPA 745-K-93-016)
Asbestos in Schools: Evaluation of Asbestos Hazard
Emergency Response Act (fact sheet,
EPA 745-F-91-100)
Asbestos in Schools: Evaluation of Asbestos Hazard
Emergency Response Act (summary report,
EPA 745-K-91-101)
Advisory to the Public on Asbestos in Buildings
(EPA 745-K-93-014)
The ABCs of Asbestos in School (information
packet, EPA 745-K-93-017)
Source
TSCA Hotline
TSCA Hotline
TSCA Hotline
TSCA Hotline
TSCA Hotline
TSCA Hotline
TSCA Hotline
TSCA Hotline
RESOURCES
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Publication
Proposed Rule on Friable Asbestos Containing
Materials in School Buildings: Health Effects and
Magnitude of Exposure (support document,
EPA 560-12-80-003)
Source
TSCA Hotline
RESOURCES FOR UliRAviolET Liqkr(SuN PROTECTJON)
Stratospheric Ozone Hotline: 800-296-1996
Ozone Depletion Resource Center
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/docs/ozone/resource/public.html
Ultraviolet Light (Sun Protection) Publications and Sources
Publication
Action Steps for Sun Protection (fact sheet,
EPA 430-F-95-002)
Be Cool, Cover Up Poster
Be Sun Smart—Tips For You and Your Children
(fact sheet)
Health Effects of Overexposure to the Sun
(fact sheet, EPA 430-F-95-003)
How Will a Decreasing Stratospheric Ozone Affect
Our Environment? (fact sheet)
Source
Stratospheric Ozone Hotline
Ozone Depletion Resource
Center
Region 5, 800-621-8431
Region 3, Betty Ringkamp,
215-566-5663
Stratospheric Ozone Hotline
Ozone Depletion Resource
Center
Region 3, Betty Ringkamp,
215-566-5663
175
RESOURCES
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Publication
Moving Out of CFCs, Benefits of the CFC
Phaseout (fact sheet, EPA 430-F-96-020)
Ozone Science Fact Sheet
Ozone Layer Educator's Guide (guidance
packet, EPA 430-E-95-003)
Ozone Depletion (fact sheet, EPA 430-F-95-001)
Practice Safe Sun (pamphlet)
Protecting the Ozone Layer: Safe Disposal of Home
Appliances Containing Ozone-Depleting
Substances (EPA 430-K-93-001)
Protection of the Ozone Layer
(EPA 230-N-95-002)
Radiation: Risks and Realities
(EPA 402-K-92-004)
Safe Sun Poster (EPA 905-H-93-002,1994)
Safety Tips for Protecting Your Children (fact sheet)
Stratospheric Ozone Facts (fact sheet)
Source
Stratospheric Ozone Hotline
Ozone Depletion Resource
Center
Region 3, Betty Ringkamp,
215-566-5663
NCEPI
NCEPI
Region 5, 800-621-8431
NCEPI
NCEPI
NCEPI
Region 5, 800-621-8431
Region 3, Betty Ringkamp,
215-566-5663
Region 3, Betty Ringkamp,
215-566-5663
RESOURCES
PAqE 1 76
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Publication
Sun Protection for Children (fact sheet,
EPA 430-F-95-004)
The Sun, UV and You: A Guide to the UV Index
and Sun-Safe Behavior (booklet,
EPA 430-K-95-005)
The Ultraviolet Index: What You Need to Know
(pamphlet, EPA 430-F-94-016)
UV Radiation (fact sheet, EPA 430-F-95-006)
What are the CFC Impacts on Stratospheric
Ozone? (fact sheet)
What Can You Do to Help Prevent Ozone
Depletion? (fact sheet)
What is the Ultraviolet (UV) Index (fact sheet,
EPA 430-H-94-003)
Source
Stratospheric Ozone Hotline
Ozone Depletion Resource
Center
NCEPI
Stratospheric Ozone Hotline
Ozone Depletion Resource
Center
NCEPI
Region 3, Betty Ringkamp,
215-566-5663
Region 3, Betty Ringkamp,
215-566-5663
Stratospheric Ozone Hotline
Ozone Depletion Resource
Center
AN
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.-..v-
The Hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in English and Spanish. The
Hotline distributes a basic information packet on lead that includes the EPA brochure
"Lead Poisoning and Your Children," three fact sheets, and a list of state and local
contacts for additional information. Callers who have more specific questions are re-
ferred to the clearinghouse (800-424-LEAD) and can speak directly with an information
specialist. Information specialists provide on-phone technical assistance.
Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
401 M Street, S.W. (E637)
Washington, DC 20460
Phone: 202-260-2902
Lead home page: http://www.epa.gov/opptintr/lead/index.html
Lead Publications and Sources
Publication
A New England Guide: Community Resources for
Lead Poisoning Prevention Directory (1996)
Avoiding Dangers in the Dirt (children's workbook)
Be Safe With Lead-Man (poster)
Children and Lead: What You Can Do? A Guide for
Parents and Day Care Providers From Physicians
for Social Responsibility
Source
Region 1 , Maureen McClelland,
617-565-3232
http://www.epa.gov/region01/
eco/lead/lppform.html
Region 1 , Maureen McClelland,
617-565-3232
http://www.epa.gov/region01/
eco/lead/lppform.html
Region 4, Lead Coordinator,
Rose Anne Rudd,
404-562-8998
Region 3, Betty Ringkamp,
215-566-5663
RESOURCES
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Publication
Controlling Lead In Soils Packet (1995)
Controlling Lead in Soils Report
Fact Sheet: Disclosure of Lead-Based Paint Hazards
in Housing (EPA 747-F-96-002, March 1996)
Finding the Right Home (children's workbook)
Finding a Qualified Lead Professional for Your
Home (EPA 747-F-96-006)
Going to the Doctor (children's workbook)
Healthy Yard: Is Your Yard Lead Proof? (poster)
Source
Region 1, Maureen McClelland,
617-565-3232
http://www.epa.gov/regionO I/
eco/lead/lppform.html
Region 1, Maureen McClelland,
617-565-3232
http://www.epa.gov/regionO I/
eco/lead/lppform.html
National Lead Information
Center
http://www.epa.gov/opptintr/lead/
leadbase.htm
Region 1, Maureen McClelland
617-565-3232
http://www.epa.gov/regionO I/
eco/lead/lppform.html
National Lead Information
Center
http://www.epa.gov/opptintr/lead/
leadbase.htm
Region 1, Maureen McClelland,
617-565-3232
http://www.epa.gov/regionO I/
eco/lead/lppform.html
Region 1, Maureen McClelland,
617-565-3232
http://www.epa.gov/regionO I/
eco/lead/lppform.html
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Publication
Healthy Beginnings: Lead Safe Families, an English-
as-a-Second-Language Curriculum on Lead Poisoning
Prevention (EPA 208-B-93-001,1996)
Home Repairs and Innovations: What You Should
Know About Lead-Based Paints
Identifying Symptoms of Illness (children's workbook)
Identifying Lead Hazards in Your Home (fact sheet,
EPA 747-F-96-007)
Lead in American Schools: What School Districts
Should & Should Not Do
Lead in Your Drinking Water (EPA 810-F-93-001)
Lead Prevention Videos: Lead Poisoning—
A Parent's Guide to Prevention, Sesame Street Lead
Away!, and Living With Lead
Lead Poisoning and Your Children (pamphlet,
EPA 800-B-92-002); El Envenenamiento por el
Plomo y Sus Ninos (EPA 747-K-95-001)
Lead Poisoning Prevention Wheel
Source
Region 1,617-565-4592
http://www.epa.gov/
regionO 1/eco/lead/lppform.html
Region 7, 800-223-0425
Region 1, Maureen McClelland,
617-565-3232
http://www.epa.gov/region01/
eco/lead/lppform.html
NCEPI
Region 3, Betty Ringkamp,
215-566-5663
NCEPI
Water Resource Center
National Lead Information
Center
Region 4, Lead Coordinator,
Rose Anne Rudd,
404-562-8998
Region 7, 800-223-0425
RESOURCES
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Publication
Lead in Drinking Water Coolers (fact sheet,
EPA 810-F-90-021)
LEAD: A Cross Program Strategy (1993)
Lead-Free Kids, Lead-Free Homes (pamphlet)
Lead—Is Your Child At Risk? (pamphlet)
Let's Get the Lead Out 1997 Teaching Materials
Making Your Kids & Your Home Safe from Lead
Poisoning (pamphlet)
Our Mid-Atlantic Environment-25 Years of Progress
(EPA 903-R-017, December 1995)
Preparing and Storing Food (children's workbook)
Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home
(pamphlet, EPA 747-DK-94-001, May 1995);
Poteja a Su Familia del Plomo en Su Casa
(EPA 747-K-94-001S)
Source
NCEPI
Water Resource Center
Region 1, Maureen McClelland,
617-565-3232
http://www.epa.gov/regionO I/
eco/lead/lppform.html
Region 3, Betty Ringkamp,
215-566-5663
Region 3, Betty Ringkamp,
215-566-5663
Region 5, 800-621-8431
Region 3, Betty Ringkamp,
215-566-5663
Region 3, Betty Ringkamp,
215-566-5663
Region 1, Maureen McClelland,
617-565-3232
http://www.epa.gov/regionO I/
eco/lead/lppform.html
National Lead Information
Center
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RESOURCES
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Publication
Protecting Your Child from Lead Poisoning
(pamphlet, 1993)
Protecting Your Family from Lead Poisoning: Como
Proteger a Sus Hijos y Su Hogar contra el
Envenenamiento por Plomo (pamphlet)
Questions & Answers on the EPA/HUD Disclosure
Rule (EPA 747-F-96-001, March 1996)
Questions Parents Ask About Lead Poisoning
Reducing Lead Hazards When Remodeling Your
Home (EPA 747-R-94-002, April 1994); Como
Reducir Los Peligros del Plomo al Remodelar Su
Casa (EPA 747-R-94-002S)
Testing Your Home for Lead
Source
Region 1, Maureen McClelland,
617-565-3232
http://www.epa.gov/region01/
eco/lead/lppform.html
Region 3, Betty Ringkamp,
215-566-5663
National Lead Information
Center
http://www.epa.gov/opptintr/
lead/leadbase.htm
Region 7, 800-223-0425
National Lead Information
Center
Region 7, 800-223-0425
iNfoRMATJON RESOURCES foR ENdoCRJNE DJSRUpTORS ANd Ol^ER NEUROTOXJCS
Office of Research and Development
National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory
Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
Phone:919-541-2281
Endocrine Disrupters Research Initiative home page: http://www.epa.gov/endocrine
RESOURCES
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Endocrine Disrupters and Other Neurotoxics Publications and Sources
Publication
Endocrine Disrupter Research Initiative: Relevant
Research Publications
Public Health Implications of PCB Exposures
(ATSDR/EPA Report, December 1996)
Special Report on Environmental Endocrine
Disruption: An Effects Assessment and Analysis
(EPA630-R-96-012)
Workshop Report on Developmental Neurotoxic
Effects Associated with Exposure to PCB's
(EPA 630-R-92-004)
Report to Congress on Mercury (Office of Air and
Radiation, December 1997)
Source
http://www.epa.gov/endocrine/
pubs.html
RegionS
http://www.epa.gov/endocrine/
pubs.html
http://www.epa.gov/endocrine/
pubs.html
http://www.epa.gov/oar/
mercuryhtml
EffECTS Of
INFORMATION RESOURCES FOR
Office of Pesticide Programs (OPP)
Communication Branch
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
401M Street, S.W. (7506C)
Washington, DC 20460
Phone:703-305-5017
National Pesticide Telecommunications Network (NPTN) Hotline
Toll Free Number: 800-858-7378
Internet: http://ace.orst.edu/info/nptn/
E-Mail: nptn@ace.orst.edu
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A national toll-free telephone information service provides callers (mainly parents,
consumers, medical community, and federal, state and local governments) with poisoning
prevention and technical information on pesticide active ingredients and product registra-
tions in the United States.
Pesticides Publications and Sources
Publication
Child-Resistant Packages for Pesticides
Citizen's Guide to Pest Control and Pesticide
Safety (EPA 730-K-95-001, September 1995)
Diagnostico y Tratamiento de Los Envenenamientos
por Plaguicidas, Cuarta Edicion (Spanish,
EPA 540-R-95-024)
Do You Really Need a Pesticide?
(EPA 910-F-94-004)
Emergency Action Guide for Pesticide
Incidents (1992)
For Your Information: Protecting the Public from
Pesticide Residues in Food (fact sheet,
EPA 735-F-96-001)
Growing Food Crops on City Lots (fact sheet,
June 1994)
Integrated Pest Management (poster,
EPA 735-H-92-001)
Source
Region 4, Wilson Harvard,
404-562-9002
NCEPI
NCEPI
Region 10, 800-424-9372
Region 5, Pesticides Program
Section, 312-353-2192
NCEPI
Region 5, Pesticides Program
Section, 312-353-2192
NCEPI
RESOURCES
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Publication
Methyl Parathion in the Chicago Area (1997)
Office of Pesticide Programs Annual Report for
1996 (EPA 735-R-96-001)
Pest Control in the School Environment: Adopting
Integrated Pest Management (brochure,
EPA 735-F-93-012)
Pesticide Poisoning Action Guide for Agricultural
Pesticides in the Midwest: Resource Directory for
Medical Personnel (EPA 905-B-94-001, May 1994)
Pesticides and Child Safety (EPA 735-F-93-050R)
Protect Yourself from Pesticides: A Guide for
Pesticide Handlers (EPA 735-B-93-003)
Protect Yourself from Pesticides: A Guide for
Agricultural Workers/ Protejase de Los Pesticidas:
Guia para Los Trabajadores Agricolas
(EPA 735-B-93-002)
Protect Yourself from Pesticides (poster,
EPA735-H-93-001)
Protejase de Los Pesticidas: Guia Para Los Que
Manejan Pesticidas ( EPA 735-B-94-001)
Recognition and Management of Pesticide
Poisonings (Fourth Edition, EPA 540-R-98-001)
Source
Region 5, 312-353-2000
NCEPI
NCEPI
Region 5, 312-353-2000
NCEPI
NCEPI
NCEPI
NCEPI
NCEPI
NCEPI
185
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Publication
Status of Pesticides in Re-Registration and Special
Review (Rainbow Report, EPA 738-R-94-008)
Steps to Protect Yourself from Pesticides
(English/Laotian: EPA 735-F-95-006)
(English/Cambodian: EPA 735-F-95-005)
(English/Vietnamese: EPA 735-F-95-004)
(English/Haitian Creole: EPA 735-F-95-003)
(English/Spanish: EPA 735-F-95-002)
10 Tips to Protect Children from Pesticide and Lead
Poisonings around the Home (English/Spanish,
EPA 735-F-97-001)
The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide
Act (FIFRA) and Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic
Act ( FFDCA) as amended by the Food Quality
Protection Act (FQPA) of August 3,1996
(EPA730-L-97-001)
To Spray or Not To Spray (pamphlet,
EPA 905-F-95-003)
What You Need to Know About Methyl Parathion
and Your Health (fact sheet, 1997)
Wood Preservatives for Applicators (booklet, 1987)
Source
NCEPI
NCEPI
NCEPI
NCEPI
Region 5, 312-353-2000
Region 5, 312-353-2000
Region 5,312-353-2000
RESOURCES
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iAl Risks FROM CONTAIN! NATEC! WATER
RESOURCES foR CONTAMJNANTS JN DRJNkJNq WATER, SURFACE WATER, ANd Fish
Safe Drinking Water Hotline
Phone: 800-426-4791
E-Mail: hotline-sdwa@epamail.epa.gov
The Safe Drinking Water Hotline is available to help the public, drinking water stakehold-
ers, and state and local officials understand the regulations and programs developed in
response to the Safe Drinking Water Act (as amended in 1 986 and 1 996). This includes
information about drinking water regulations and publications, source water protection
programs, and public education materials. The Hotline can be reached Monday through
Friday (except federal holidays) from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time).
EPA's Office of Water Resource Center
Water Resource Center (RC4 1 00)
Room 26 15 Mall
40 1M Street, S.W
Washington, DC 20460
Phone: 202-260-7786
Fax: 202-260-0386
E-mail: waterpubs@epamail.epa.gov
EPA's Office of Water Resource Center is a one-stop location for information and materi-
als produced by the Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water, the Office of Science
and Technology, and the Office of Wastewater Management, within EPA's Office of
Water. Materials available include: fact sheets, guidance manuals, technical reports,
models, educational kits, training materials, brochures, videotapes, and posters. The
Office of Water Resource Center is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST.
Office of Water Web Site
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/ow
EPA's Office of Water web site contains current information about a variety ofoffice of water
responsibilities. The Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water site contains information
about the public water system program and standards established for contaminants. The
Office of Science and Technology site contains information about beaches and fish, as well as
contaminant health advisories. The Office of Wetlands, Oceans, and Watersheds site includes
information about watershed protection. The Office of Wastewater Management site includes
materials on control and prevention of water pollution from industrial discharge and sludge.
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Great Lakes National Program Office
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Region 5
77 West Jackson Boulevard
Chicago, IL 60604-3507
Phone:312-353-2000
Fax:312-353-4135
Contaminated Drinking Water, Surface Water, and Fish Publications and Sources
Publication
Before You Go to the Beach (EPA 820-K-97-00 1 ,
September 1997)
Drinking Water and Health (EPA 8 1 1 -F-95-002-C,
October 1995)
Drinking Water Counts on You: Blue Thumb Kit
(EPA810-B-97-001)
Drinking Water Health Fact Sheet on Atrazine
Drinking Water Health Advisories (fact sheet listing)
Great Lakes Water Quality Initiative Case Studies
Show Benefits Outweigh Costs (fact sheet,
EPA 820-F-95-002)
Great Lakes Water Quality Initiative: A Summary
(fact sheet, EPA 820-S-95-001)
Indicator I: Population Served by Community Drinking
Water Systems Violating Health-Based Requirements
(Safe Drinking Water Information System)
Source
Water Resource Center
Water Resource Center
NCEPI
Water Resource Center
Water Resource Center
Great Lakes National Program
Office, Region 5, 3 12-353-3612
Great Lakes National Program
Office, Region 5, 3 12-353-3612
Water Resource Center
ChildREN's HEAlrh RESOURCES
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Publication
Kids Can Help Save Our Streams!
(EPA 840-F-96-900)
Lead in Drinking Water: An Annotated List of
Publications (EPA 812-K-93-001, October 1993)
National Listing of Fish Consumption Advisories
(fact sheet, EPA 823-F-96-006)
National Listing of Fish Consumption Advisories
Software (7 disk set, EPA 823-C-96-011)
National Study of Chemical Residues in Fish (fact
sheet, EPA 823-F-92-001, 1992)
National Primary Drinking Water Standards
(EPA 810-F-94-001A, February 1994)
National Listing of Fish Consumption Advisories,
Update Fact Sheet (EPA 823-F-95-004)
Preamble to National Primary Drinking Water
Regulations for Lead and Copper
Protecting the Great Lakes: The Cost and Benefits
of Reducing Toxic Pollution in Three Communities
(EPA 820-F-95-004)
Public Water Systems Inventory and Compliance
Statistics, FY 1991-1995 (EPA 816-R-97-006)
Source
NCEPI
Water Resource Center
Water Resource Center
NCEPI
NCEPI
NCEPI
NCEPI
Federal Register,
Volume 56, Page 26460
Great Lakes National Program
Office, Region 5,312-353-3612
NCEPI
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RESOURCES
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Publication
Safe Drinking Water Act Amendments of 1996:
General Guide to Provisions (EPA 810-S-96-001)
Should I Eat the Fish I Catch?
(EPA 823-B-97-009, September 1997)
Student Activity Sheets For Drinking Water
Projects (EPA 810-F-92-003)
Summary of U.S. Great Lakes Beach Closings,
1981 -1994 (EPA 905-R-97-003)
The Great Lakes: An Environmental Atlas and
Resource Book (EPA 905-B-95-001)
The Effects of Great Lakes Contaminants on Human
Health: Report to Congress (EPA 905-R-95-017,
September 1995)
U.S. EPA 1997 Supplementary Fish Consumption
Advisory for Michigan's Great Lakes Waters
Fact Sheet
Water on Tap: A Consumer's Guide to the Nation's
Drinking Water (EPA 810-K-97-002, July 1997)
Watersheds: Where We Live (poster)
We All Live Downstream (booklet)
Source
NCEPI
Water Resource Center
Water Resource Center
NTIS
http://www.epa.gov/
reg5oopa/fish/index.htm
Great Lakes National Program
Office, Region 5,312-353-3612
Region 5 http://www.epa.gov/
reg5oopa/fish/index.htm
Water Resource Center
NCEPI
Region 3, Betty Ringkamp,
215-566-5663
RESOURCES
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ElNViRONMEINTAl EduCAliON
RESOURCES FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EducAiioN
Environmental Education Division
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
40 1M Street, S.W. (1701)
Washington, DC 20460
Phone: 202-260-4865
Fax: 202-260-4095
Internet: http://www.nceet.snre.umich.edu/epa.html
EPA's Environmental Education Division's mission is to advance and support national
education efforts to develop an environmentally conscious and responsible public, and to
inspire a sense of personal responsibility for the care of the environment in all individuals.
For more information regarding Environmental Education Grants, please call 202-
260-8619 or fax 202-260-4095.
National Education Association
Health Information Network (NBA, HIN)
1201 16th Street, NW
Washington, DC 2003 6
Phone: 202-822-7570
Fax: 202-822-7775
Internet: http://www.nea.org/hin
National Parent Teacher 's Association
National PTA Headquarters
330 N. Wabash Avenue, Suite 2 1 00
Chicago, IL 606 11
Phone:312-670-6782
Internet: http://www.pta.org/programs/envlibr.htm
Environmental Education Publications and Sources
Publication
1 997 PTA Green Almanac
Source
OAR-Sponsored National PTA
Resources
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RESOURCES
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Publication
A Guide to Environmental Education Resources
(January 1996)
Acid Rain: A Student's First Source Book
(children's workbook, EPA 600-990-027 A)
Environmental Education Grants Program, Federal
Fiscal Year 1996
Environmental Justice Grants Bulletin
Environmental Hazards in Your School: A
Resource Handbook
Environmental Justice and the Indoor Environment
(November 1997)
Guidelines for Prevention, Recognition, and
Resolution of Environmentally-Related Illness
in Schools
HAZ-ED: Classroom Activities for Understanding
Hazardous Waste (EPA 540-K-95-005, April 1996)
Source
Region 1 http://www.epa.gov/
regionO 1/ra/ed/educres.html
http://www.epa.gov/acidrain/
student/student2.html,
Acid Rain Hotline,
202-233-9620.
Region 1 http://www.epa.gov/
regionO l/ra/ed/t_grant96.html
OAR-Sponsored NBA
Health Information Network
Resources
Region 3, Betty Ringkamp,
215-566-5663
OAR-Sponsored NBA
Health Information Network
Resources
Region 2, Environmental
Education, 212-637-3671
http://www.epa.gov/
superfund/oerr/cio/products/
hazed/hazedtoc.htm
RESOURCES
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Publication
Internet Teacher's Lounge
Kids Page
Leader's Guide to Environmental Issues,
February 1997
Meeting New York State's Crisis in School
Facilities Today
NBA Health Information Network: IAQ in Schools
Report to the New York State Board of Regents on
the Environmental Quality of Schools
School Recycling Programs: A Handbook for
Educators (booklet)
Student Activity Sheet: Tracking Pollution, a
Hazardous Whodunnit (EPA 810-F-93-003)
The ABC's of Environmental Education
(EPA 905-K-94-001)
The Source: Indoor Air, Water and Your Schools
(Volumes 1-4, June 1997)
Source
http://www.epa.gov/region07/
kids/teachres.htm
Region 7 http://www.epa.gov/
region07/kids/welcome.htm
O AR-Sponsored National
PTA Resources
Region 2, Environmental
Education, 212-637-3671
OAR-Sponsored NBA
Health Information Network
Resources
Region 2, Environmental
Education, 212-637-3671
Region 3, Betty Ringkamp,
215-566-5663
NCEPI
Region 5, http://www.epa.gov/
region5/enved/html/abc.htm
OAR-Sponsored NBA
Health Information Network
Resources
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RESOURCES
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Publication
The Importance of Parent Involvement in Addressing
Children's Environmental Health Issues
Workshop Presentation Kit (for use by PTA leaders
to conduct environmental workshops at state PTA
conventions)
Source
OAR-Sponsored National
PTA Resources
OAR-Sponsored National
PTA Resources
COMMUNITY Ri
iNfoRMATJON RESOURCES foR CoMMUNJTy Riqhl>TOl
-------
EPA ChildREN's ENVIRONMENTA! HEAlih YEARbook
Publication
Consumer Labeling Initiative (CLI)
Current List of TRI Chemicals for Reporting
Year 1995
Guidance for Chemical Indexing Abstract
Source
http://www.epa.gov/opptintr/
Iabeling/index.h1ml
http ://www. epa.gov/opptintr/
tri/chemlst.pdf
http://www.epa.gov/reg3artd/
tchem/chemind.htm (fora
complete copy, contact DebraL.
Forman at 215-566-2073)
ChrlER FEdERAl AqENCiES YViTrl PROqRAMS RElATEd TO CrlildREN's
ENVIRONMENTAL
Nearly all federal agencies are pursuing children's environmental health. The Task Force
to Reduce Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks to Children (established by
President Clinton's Executive Order on Protection of Children from Environmental Health
Risks and Safety Risks) involves:
• Office of Science and Technology Policy, National Science and Technology
Council (NSTC) Old Executive Office Building, 1 7th Street and Pennsylvania
Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20502, 202-456-71 16. Internet: http://
www.wMtehouse.gov/wh/eop/ostc/html/ntsc_home.html
• Council of Economic Advisers (CEA) Old Executive Office Building, 1 7th Street
and Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20502, 202-395-5042. Internet:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/wh/eop/cea/html/whitepapers.html
• Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ)Old Executive Office Building, 1 7th
Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20502, 202-395-5042.
Internet: http://www.whitehouse.gov/ceq
• Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Old Executive Office Building, 1 7th
Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20502, 202-395-5042.
Internet: http://www.whitehouse.gov/wh/eop/html/ombhome.html
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Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Environmen-
talHealthSciences(NIEHS)Building 101,Headquarters,P.O. Box 12233,
Research Triangle Park, NC 27709,919-541-3201. Internet: http://
www.niehs.nih.gov
Department of Health and Human Services, Agency for Toxic Substances and
Disease Registry (ATSDR) Building 16, Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, N.E., Atlanta, GA 30303,404-639-7000. Internet:
http://atsdrl.atsdr.cec.gov:8080/child
Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC) Building 16, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600
Clifton Road, N.E., Atlanta, GA 30303,404-639-7000. Internet: http://
www.cdc.gov; and Rhodes Building, Kroger Center, 3005 Chamblee-Tucker Road,
Atlanta, GA 30341,770-488-5401. Internet: http://www.cdc.gov/nceh/about/org/
bddd.htm
Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention and
Health Promotion (ODPHP) Hubert H. Humphrey Building, 200 Independence
Avenue, S.W., Washington, DC 20202,202-205-8611. Internet: http://
odphp.osophs.dhhs.gov
Department of Education (DoED) Federal Office Building Ten, 600 Pennsylvania
Avenue, S.W., Washington, DC 20202,202-401-3000. Internet: http://www.ed.gov
Department of Labor (DOL) Francis Perkins Building, 200 Constitution Avenue,
N.W, Washington, DC 20210,202-219-8271. Internet: http://www.dol.gov
Department of Justice (DO J) Main Justice Building, 950 Pennsylvania Avenue,
N.W, Washington, DC 20530,202-514-2001. Internet: http://www.usdoj.gov
Department of Energy (DOE) Forrestall Building, 1000 Independence Avenue,
S.W, Washington, DC 20585,
202-586-6210. Internet: http://www.doe.gov
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) HUD Building, 451
Seventh Street, S.W, Washington, DC 20410,202-708-0417. Internet: http://
www.hud.gov
Department of Transportation (DOT) Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, S.W,
Washington, DC 20590,202-366-1111. Internet: http://www.dot.gov
RESOURCES
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Department of Agriculture (USD A) Jamie L. Whitten Federal Building, 1400
Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, DC 20250,202-720-3631.
Internet: http://www.usda.gov
Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)East West Towers, 4330 East
West Highway, Bethesda, MD 20814,301-504-0213.
Internet: http://www.cpsc.gov
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GlossARy
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GlossARy
The glossary is intended to assist readers in understanding terms used by the U.S. Envi-
ronmental Protection Agency. The definitions are not all-encompassing and should not be
construed as official EPA definitions. For terms not included in this glossary, the reader
may refer to standard health science and medical textbooks and dictionaries.
Acute Exposure: Exposure to one dose or multiple doses within a short time—24 hours
to a few days.
Acute Toxicity: A term used to describe immediate toxicity. Its former use was associ-
ated with toxic effects that were severe (e.g., mortality) in contrast to the term "subacute
toxicity" which was associated with toxic effects that were less severe.
Adverse Health Effect: Any change resulting in anatomical, functional, or psychological
impairment that may affect the performance of the whole organism.
Aquifer: An underground geological formation, or group of formations, containing usable
amounts of groundwater that can supply wells and springs.
Allergic Reaction: Adverse reaction to a chemical resulting from previous sensitization to
that chemical or to a structurally similar one.
Asbestosis: Scarring of the lung from inhaling airborne asbestos fibers. This disease is
often fatal.
Bioaccumulate: To build up a large amount of a substance in the body by ingesting small
amounts of the substance over an extended period of time.
Cadmium: A heavy metal element that accumulates in the environment.
Carcinogen: Any substance that can cause or promote cancer.
Carcinogenesis: The origin or production of cancer (very likely a series of steps). The
carcinogenic event so modifies the genome and/or other molecular control mechanisms in
the target cell that they can give rise to a population of altered cells.
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Chronic Exposure: Multiple exposures occurring over an extended period of time, or a
significant fraction of the animal's or individual's lifetime.
Chronic Toxicity: A term used to describe delayed toxicity. However, the term "chronic
toxicity" also refers to effects that persist over a long time, whether or not they occur
immediately or are delayed.
Congenital: A condition existing from birth. Congenital conditions are acquired during
development in the womb. They are not inherited from the parents.
Cohort Study: An epidemiologic (human) study that observes subjects in different ex-
posed groups and compares the incidence of symptoms. Although ordinarily prospective
in nature, such a study is sometimes carried out retrospectively, using historical data.
Cumulative Risk Assessment: A process that involves the consideration of the aggre-
gate ecologic or health risk to a target organism caused by the accumulation of risk from
multiple stressors (any physical, chemical, or biological entity that can induce an adverse
response) and multiple pathways of exposure.
Developmental Toxicity: Adverse effects on the developing organism (including death,
structural abnormality, altered growth, or functional deficiency) resulting from exposure
prior to conception (in either parent), during prenatal development, or postnatally up to the
time of sexual maturation.
Dose: Administered dose is the mass of a substance given to an organism and in contact
with an exchange boundary (e.g., gastrointestinal tract) per unit body weight, per unit time
(e.g., mg/kg-day). Absorbed dose is the amount of a substance penetrating the exchange
boundaries of an organism after contact.
Dose Response: How a biological organism's response to atoxic substance quantita-
tively shifts as its overall exposure to the substance changes (e.g., a small dose of carbon
monoxide may cause drowsiness; a large dose can be fatal).
GlossARy
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DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid): The carrier of genetic information in cells.
Ecology: The relationship of living things to one another and their environment, or the
study of such relationships.
Endocrine Disrupters: Exogenous (outside the body) chemical agents that interfere with
the production, release, transport, metabolism, binding, or elimination of the natural
hormones in the body, which are responsible for the maintenance of homeostasis and
regulation of developmental processes.
Enteric: Relating to the intestines, alimentary.
Exposure: Contact of an organism with a chemical or physical agent. Exposure is
quantified as the amount of the agent available at the exchange boundaries of the organism
(e.g., gut, skin, lungs) and available for absorption.
Exposure Assessment: The determination or estimation (qualitative or quantitative) of
the magnitude, frequency, duration, and route of exposure.
Ground Water: Water that moves slowly underground in an aquifer.
Hazardous Waste: Waste defined by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
(RCRA) as those that may cause, or significantly contribute to illness or death, or that may
substantially threaten human health or the environment when not properly controlled.
Health Advisory: An estimate of acceptable drinking water exposure to a chemical
substance based on health effects information. A Health Advisory is not a legally enforce-
able federal standard, but serves as technical guidance to assist federal, state, and local
officials.
Incidence: The number of cases of a disease or occurrence of an effect within a specified
period of time.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM): A mixture of chemical and other non-pesticide
methods to control pests.
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Malignant: Tending to become progressively worse and to result in death if not treated;
having the properties ofanaplasia, invasiveness, and metastasis.
Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL): Maximum permissible level of a contaminant
delivered to any user of a public drinking water system. An MCL is an enforceable
federal regulation.
Metastasis: The transfer of disease from one organ or part to another not directly con-
nected with it.
Mitigation: Measures taken to reduce adverse impacts on the environment.
Morbidity: Sickness.
Mortality: Death.
Nitrate: Plant nutrient and inorganic fertilizer that enters water supply sources from septic
systems, animal feed lots, agricultural fertilizers, manure, industrial wastewaters, sanitary
landfills, and garbage dumps.
Nitrite: Nitrite is an intermediate in the process of nitrification. Nitrous oxide salts are
used in food preservation.
Particulate Matter: Airborne materials that can, depending on their size and composi-
tion, lodge in various areas of the respiratory tract.
Pathogens: Microorganisms that can cause disease in other organisms or in humans,
animals, and plants (e.g., bacteria, viruses, or parasites) found in sewage, in runoff from
farms or rural areas populated with domestic and wild animals, and in water used for
swimming. Fish and shellfish contaminated by pathogens, or the contaminated water itself,
can cause serious illness.
Restoration: Measures taken to return a site to pre-violation conditions.
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Risk: The probability of injury, disease, or death under specific circumstances. In quanti-
tative terms, risk is expressed in values ranging from zero (representing the certainty that
harm will not occur) to one (representing the certainty that harm will occur).
Risk Assessment: The determination of the kind and degree of hazard posed by an
agent, the extent to which a particular group of people has been or may be exposed to the
agent, and the present or potential health risk that exists due to the agent.
Smelter: A facility that melts or fuses ore, often with an accompanying chemical change,
to separate its metal content. Emissions cause pollution. "Smelting" is the process
involved.
Solvent: A liquid capable of dissolving a material and holding it in solution. For example,
paint remover is a paint solvent.
Superfund: Federal authority, established by the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA) as amended by the Superfund
Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA) of 1986, to respond directly to releases or
threatened releases of hazardous substances that may endanger health or the environment.
Surface Water: Water at the surface of the earth, including lakes, rivers, ponds, and
streams. It is the source of much ground water through the larger hydrologic cycle as
water moves from the surface to aquifers below ground.
Toxic: Poisonous.
Toxicology: The study of the adverse effects of chemicals in living organisms.
Transboundary Pollutants: Air pollution that travels from one jurisdiction to another,
often crossing state or international boundaries.
Volatile: Any substance that evaporates readily.
Vinyl Chloride: A chemical compound, used in producing some plastics, that is known
to be carcinogenic to humans.
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ACRONYMS ANC]
AbbREviAiioNS
AAP: American Academy of Pediatrics
AAP-PA: Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics
AASA: American Association of School Administrators
AChE: Acetylcholinesterase
AHS: Agriculture Health Study
AID: U.S. Agency for International Development
AIRS: Aeromatic Information Retrieval System
ALA: American Lung Association
ALAEM: American Lung Association of Eastern Missouri
ALANYS: American Lung Association of New York State
ATSDR: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
AWEsome!: Active Watershed Education
BBDR: Biologically-based dose-response
CCRI: Chicago Cumulative Risk Initiative
CDC: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
CERCLA: Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act
CNS: Central Nervous System
CRITFC: Columbia River Intertribal Fish Commission
DEPM: Dietary Exposure Potential Model
EPA: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
EPCRA: Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act
ETS: Environmental tobacco smoke
FDA: U.S. Food and Drug Administration
FCP: Fish Contamination Program
F1FRA: Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act
FQPA: Food Quality Protection Act
GAO: Government Accounting Office
GREEN: Global Rivers Environmental Education Network
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HHS: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
HUD: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
IAQ: Indoor air quality
IEUBK: Integrated Exposure and Uptake Biokinetics
IPM: Integrated Pest Management
IRIS: Integrated Risk Information System
JET: Junior Environmental Training
MMT: Manganese - methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl
MPRA: Multi-pathway risk assessment
MWC: Municipal waste combustion
NAFTA: North American Free Trade Agreement
NEA-HIN: National Education Association Health Information Network
NCHS: National Center for Health Statistics
NETT: National Enforcement Training Institute
NHANES: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Nffl: National Institutes of Health
NLM: National Library of Medicine
NPTA: National Parent Teachers Association
NPTN: National Pesticide Telecommunications Network
OCHP: Office of Children's Health Protection, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
PAHs: Poly cyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
PCBs: Polychlorinatedbiphenyls
PCDF: Polychlorinatedbenzodifuran
ppb: Parts per billion
PRGs: Preliminary Remediation Goals
RCRA: Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
RTK-NET: Right-to-Know Network
SDWA: Safe Drinking Water Act
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TRI: Toxic Release Inventory
TSCA: Toxic Substances Control Act
USDA:U.S. Department of Agriculture
UV: Ultraviolet light
VOCs: Volatile organic compounds
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INCJEX
ENVIRONMENTAL JuSliCE PROJECTS
Efforts to improve children's health protection are inextricably tied to EPA's initiatives to
address environmental justice. Environmental justice concerns the disproportionate health
risks to poor and disadvantaged communities resulting from their proximity to toxic waste
sites, industrial sites, and incinerators or their residence in highly polluted urban environ-
ments or substandard housing. These projects are listed in the index below. A great
number of EPA's children's health projects target urban environmental problems and tribal
health threats. The focus on all children will continue to grow, reflecting EPA's firm
commitment to the protection of children's health from environmental threats.
Urban Schools Initiative 15
American Lung Association Open Airways 16
"Breathe Easier" Support 19
"Home Cleaning for Asthma Attack Control" Program 20
Asthma Outreach Initiative 24
Site Assessment in Response to Cancer in Children 41
Multi-Pathway PAH Exposure Field Evaluation for Children in Low-Income Families ..41
The Childhood Lead Action Project 53
Lead Poisoning Prevention Curriculum 54
Environmental Justice Grants 56
Urban Environmental Initiatives 58
Environmental Epidemiological Survey of Lead Exposure of Children in
Tijuana, Mexico 59
Tribal Children Blood Lead Hazards 60
Oregon Legal Services Corporation Grant 60
Migrant Worker Housing Facility Lead and Arsenic Survey 61
Lead-Based Paint Activities in Residences and Daycare Centers—State and
Tribal Program Development 64
National Lead Information Clearinghouse 66
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Educational Photo Literature for Integrated Pest Management in a
Low-Income Setting 93
English/Spanish Video on Integrated Pest Management Techniques to Reduce
Cockroaches and Rodents in Inner-City Dwellings 93
Tropical Fruits Enforcement Case 95
Exposure of Children to Pesticides in Yuma County, Arizona 97
Columbia River Intertribal Fish Commission (CRITFC) Study 115
Technical Assistance on Risk from Consumption of Contaminated Fish 116
Guidance on Risk from Consumption of Contaminated Fish 116
The Chester Environmental Justice Initiative 128
Sixteenth Street Community Health Center 129
U.S.-Canada Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA) 137
New Orleans Environmental Justice Education Teacher Training Program 143
Environmental Education Grants 143
Youth and the Environment 145
Appalachian Mountain Club 146
EPA PROqRAM OFFICES
Office of A!R ANd RAdiAiioN
Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools 12
American Association of School Administrators 13
National Education Association 13
National Parent Teachers Association 14
Urban Schools Initiative 15
School Intervention Study 15
American Lung Association Open Airways 16
ETS Media Campaign 17
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Reducing Exposure to ETS through Child Care Outreach 17
Community-Based Pediatrician Outreach 17
Asthma Assessment 22
New National Ambient Air Quality Standards for Ozone and Fine Particles 23
Ozone Depletion Art Project 40
Sunwise School Program 40
Promulgation of Standards for Municipal Waste Combustion (MWC) 76
OfficE of COMMUNICATION, EducAiioN, ANd MediA REkiioNs
Newton's Apple "Environmental Impacts on Children's Health" 142
The GREEN Leadership Initiative 142
New Orleans Environmental Justice Education Teacher Training Program 143
OfficE of ENFORCEMENT ANd CoMpliANCE ASSURANCE
Enforcement Program for Hazardous Air Pollutant Emissions 24
Example of Asbestos Enforcement Case 39
Lead-Based Paint Compliance Assurance Program—Compliance Assistance,
Inspections, and Enforcement 51
Lead-Based Paint Compliance Monitoring and Enforcement Cooperative
Agreement Funding for States 53
Community/University Partnership for Lead Education 53
Monitoring Compliance with and Enforcing the Requirements of the National
Drinking Water Regulations for Lead and Copper 62
Investigations and Enforcement at Nonferrous Metal Smelters 62
Targeting Criminal Violations that Threaten Health and Safety of Children 63
PCB Compliance Monitoring Cooperative Agreement Funding for States 76
Urban and Residential Pesticide Control and Enforcement Program—A National
Initiative 94
Example of Illegal Pesticide Use Case 95
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Example of Enforcement Case in Antimicrobials Program 96
Monitoring Compliance with and Enforcing the Requirements of the National
Drinking Water Regulations on Lead and Copper Ill
Ongoing Nitrate/Nitrite Compliance Monitoring Ill
Enforcement of Drinking Water Regulations Governing Microbial Quality of
Drinking Water 113
Enforcement Activities to Help Ensure Compliance with the Emergency
Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) 154
OffiCE of llNTERNAliONAl AffAJRS
Children's Lung Function Study in China 134
U.S.-Canada Air Quality Agreement 134
Children's Blood Lead Level Screening in Russia 135
National Strategy for Lead Risk Reduction in Russia 135
Mobile Source Training/Lead Phase-Out Training 136
Mobile Source Program in India 136
Pesticides Management Project in Central America 136
U.S.-Canada Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA) 137
Microbiologically Safe-Drinking Water Laboratory Capacity in Latin America 137
Municipal Water Management in Latin America 137
The Central American Small Community Wastewater Treatment Proj ect 137
OfficE of Policy
Link between Death Rates in Infants and Exposure to Particulate Air Pollution 28
Cumulative Exposure Proj ect 128
Children's Environmental Health Index for the United States .......,,.....,..,.....,,.....,..,...; 155
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Office of PREVENTION, PEsiicidEs, ANd Toxic SubsiANCEs
Lead in Children's Products 63
Lead-Based Paint Activities in Residences and Daycare Centers—State and
Tribal Program Development 64
Lead-Based Paint Activities in Buildings and Other Structures 64
Disposal of Lead-Based Paint Debris 64
Evaluating the Risks of Lead Hazards from Renovation and Remodeling 65
Lead-Based Paint Hazard Standards 65
Lead-Based Paint in Housing Disclosure Requirements and Implementation 65
Redefining Childhood Blood Lead Level Reduction Goals and Lead Strategic Plan 66
Environmental Indicators Bulletin 66
National Lead Information Clearinghouse 66
Lead Poisoning Prevention and Lead Hazard Awareness Public Education and
Outreach Grant Program 67
Lead-Based Paint Maintenance Training Program 67
Renovation and Remodeling Study Phases 1 and2 67
Laboratory Study of Lead Cleaning Products 67
Renovation and Remodeling Study Phase 3 68
Guidance for Testing Lead Products 68
Repair and Maintenance Study 69
Milwaukee Low-Cost Intervention Studies 69
National Lead Laboratory Accreditation Program (NLLAP) 69
Assessment of the Effectiveness of Risk Assessments 69
CD-ROM Release of Technical Reports 69
Dissemination of Technical Information 69
Test Guidelines for Developmental Neurotoxicity 72
Test Methodologies for Endocrine Disrupters 72
Pesticide Re-Registration Program 89
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National Pesticide Telecommunications Network (NPTN) .......................................... 90
Poison Prevention [[[ 91
Integrated Pest Management in Schools Project [[[ 92
Methyl Parathion Outreach Project [[[ 94
Toxic Release Inventory [[[ 154
Consumer Labeling Initiative [[[ 157
Poison Prevention [[[ 157
Consumer Pesticide Right-to-Know Brochure [[[ 157
OfficE of RESEARC^ ANd
Allergens in the Development of Asthma in Children (Studied in Immature Rats) .......... 22
Environmental Influences on Asthma in Children [[[ 23
Total and Regional (Area) Deposition of Inhaled Particles in Children .......................... 25
Contributions of Oral versus Nasal Breathing to Fine Particle Deposition in Children ... 25
Deposition of Air Pollutants in the Developing Human Lung ........................................ 25
Childhood Susceptibility to Air Pollutants: Harvard-Mexico Studies ............................ 26
Lung Growth Study [[[ 26
Acute Respiratory Illness Study [[[ 26
Air Toxics and Pregnancy Outcome [[[ 27
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Evaluating Food Contamination Scenarios in Dietary Exposure
Studies—Child Dietary Lead Study 71
Effects of Lead on Adolescent Development 71
Long-Term Potentiation as a Model System for Cognitive Function 71
The Integrated Exposure Uptake Biokinetic (IEUBK) Model 71
Pollutant-Specific Risk Assessments 72
The Effects of Pesticides on Reproductive Toxicity 73
Effects of Endocrine Disrupters on Disposition of Testosterone in Adult and
Developing Rats 73
Mechanisms of Abnormal Reproductive Development Produced by Endocrine
Disrupting Chemicals Administered during Critical Developmental Periods 73
Effects of Environmental Toxicants on the Steroid Hormone Pathway 74
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) and Polychlorinated Benzodifuran (PCDF)
Biomarkers of Risk Assessment in Adolescent Children and Mothers 74
NeurotoxicityofPCBs 75
Developmental Toxicity of PCBs 75
The Ototoxicity of Developmental Exposure to PCBs 75
Toxicokinetics in Pregnant and Lactating Rats 75
Pollutants and Neurobehavioral Function in the Czech Republic 78
Developmental Biologically-Based Dose-Response (BBDR) Model for
Mercury Vapor 78
Prenatal Developmental Research 78
Perinatal Exposure of Rats to Toxic Chemicals and the Effects on Immune
Function Development 79
Molecular Mechanisms Common to Toxicant-Induced Neural Injury 79
Individual Variability for Neurotoxic Effects 79
Environmental Exposures and Human Neurological Function 79
Dietary Exposure Models and Related Databases to Estimate Exposure to
Chemical Residues 96
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National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 97
Exposure of Children to Pesticides in Yuma County, Arizona 97
Measuring and Apportioning Children's Exposure to Pesticides in Urban,
Suburban, and Rural Communities 97
Pesticide Exposure of Young Children in Minnesota 98
Total Organophosphorus Pesticide Exposure among Children in Urban and
Rural Environments 98
Children's Exposure to Pesticides in the Agriculture Health Study (AHS) 98
Pesticides in Young Children Study in Border States 99
The Effects of Pesticides on the Immune System and Allergic Response 99
The Biochemical Effects of Pesticides on the Central Nervous System 99
The Effects of Pesticides on Learning and Memory 99
Neurochemical Changes and Behavioral Effects Induced by Pesticides 100
Neurotoxicity of Cholinesterase-Inhibiting Pesticides 100
Neurobehavioral Characterization of Susceptible Populations and Pesticide
Neurotoxicity 100
Age-Related Sensitivity to Cholinesterase-Inhibiting Pesticides 101
Organophosphate Insecticide Exposure from Pets Treated with Flea Control
Insecticides 101
Community Enteric (Intestinal) Disease Study Ill
Determination of Human Infective Dose and Antibody Levels for
Cryptosporidium Parvum 112
Feasibility of a Cultural Method for Detecting Viable Cryptosporidium
Parvum Oocysts in Environmental Samples 112
Airway Anatomical Structure 127
Exposure Factors Handbook 127
Semen Quality in 18 Year Olds and Air Pollution in Czech Republic 138
Potential Exposure to Environmentally Released Chemicals and Childhood Cancer... 155
OfficE of Solid WASTE ANd EiviERqEi\icy RESPONSE
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Rulemaking on Do-It-Yourself Debris from Removal of Lead-Based Paint 63
ATSDR Implementation 126
Office of Solid Waste Risk Assessments 126
Combustion Rulemaking 127
OfficE of WATER
Microbial Disinfectant/Disinfection Byproducts (M-DBP) Rules 109
Information Collection: Sensitive Subpopulations 109
Microbial Diseases: Effects of Age and Sex on Morbidity and Mortality 110
Water Consumption Estimates for Subpopulations, Including Children 110
Source Water Protection Activities 112
Children's Health Protection 113
Technical Assistance on Risk from Consumption of Contaminated Fish 116
Guidance on Risk from Consumption of Contaminated Fish 116
Children Health Protection-Improvement in Risk Assessment Methods for
Drinking Water 122
Children's Health Protection-Biosolids 123
EPA
REqioixil
TtegionallAQ Tools for Schools Programs 14
Indoor Air Environment Program for Children 18
"Breathe Easier" Support 19
AmeriCorps Outreach on Asthma 19
Ozone Outreach Project 23
Examples of Regional Lead-Based Paint Activities 52
The Childhood Lead Action Project 53
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Urban Environmental Initiative 54
Lead Poisoning Prevention Curriculum 54
New England Lead Coordinating Committee 54
Daycare Provider Lead Awareness Course 55
Vermont Lead Safety Project 55
River Revitalization Program 144
Youth Star Program 144
Teacher Training Program 144
Teacher Training Workshops 145
Youth and the Environment 145
That Magnificent Groundwater Connection 145
A World in Our Backyard/Adopt-a-Wetland Program 145
Junior Environmental Training (JET) Program 146
Save the Sound 146
Appalachian Mountain Club 146
Harvard Human Health and the Environment Project 146
E.N. Rogers Environmental School 147
The Connections Project 147
Teacher Training on Integrated Pest Management and Pesticides 147
Active Watershed Education (AWEsome!) Program 148
Water Quality Information Sharing Program 148
ReqioN 2
Regional IAQ Tools for Schools Programs 14
Training School Nurses in Open Airways andlAQ Tools for Schools 16
Indoor Air Environment Program for Children 18
Harlem Prevention Center Community University Partnership Grant 18
Asthma Outreach and Education in the Bronx[[[ 20
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Cockroach Movement and Allergen Distribution in Inner-City Apartments 20
Asthma Conference in New York City 21
Puerto Rico Department of Health Asthma Projects 21
Environmental Interventions for Asthma 21
Examples of Regional Lead-Based Paint Activities 52
AmeriCorps/EPA Neighborhood Improvement Project 55
Environmental Justice Grants 56
Superfund Risk Assessment for Children 56
An Adult Lead Model at Hazardous Waste Sites 56
Vega Baja Solid Waste Disposal Site Assessment 57
Roebling Playground Remediation 57
Grand Street Relocation 77
Sustainable Reduction of Cockroaches and Rodents in Inner-City Dwellings
Using IPM Techniques 92
Educational Photo Literature for Integrated Pest Management in a
Low-Income Setting 93
English/Spanish Video on Integrated Pest Management Techniques to Reduce
Cockroaches and Rodents in Inner-City Dwellings 93
New Jersey Schools and Pesticides 93
Cornell University Non-Ag Sector IPM Program 93
Tropical Fruits Enforcement Case 95
Fish Advisories in Region 2 114
Determining Potential Exposure of Children Near Superfund Sites 123
Environmental Education Grants 143
ReqioN ^
TtegionallAQ Tools for Schools Programs 14
Program-Specific Activities and Strategies 57
Urban Environmental Initiatives 58
Fish Consumption/Toxics in the Harbor Program 114
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The Chester Environmental Justice Initiative 1128
Philadelphia Public Environmental Education Center 1149
Chemical Indexing System for Toxic Release Inventory, Part It:
Vulnerability Index 156
ReqioN 4
Regional IAQ Tools for Schools Programs 14
Indoor Air Environment Program for Children 18
Radon Mitigation for School Maintenance Personnel 37
School Visits in Counties with the Highest Radon Risk 38
EPA Region 4, U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), and State of South
Carolina Contaminated Fish Public Involvement Campaign 114
ReqioN 5
Regional IAQ Tools for Schools Programs 14
Asthma Outreach Initiative 24
Air Sampling Project, Winton Hills, Ohio 24
Asbestos-in-Schools Rule 38
Examples of Regional Lead-Based Paint Activities 52
Endocrine Disrupters 74
Great Lakes Binational Toxics Strategy 76
Pesticides: Food Safety 89
Great Lakes Binational Toxics Strategy: Virtual Elimination of Persistent
Toxic Substances 90
Pesticide Safety for Agricultural Workers and Their Families 90
Methyl Parathion Investigation 94
Reduction/Elimination of Persistent Toxic Substances in Great Lakes 115
Cleanup Actions 124
Chicago Cumulative Risk Initiative (CCRI) Project 128
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Sixteenth Street Community Health Center 129
Pollution Prevention Education Toolbox 143
ReqioN 6
RegionallAQ Tools for Schools Programs 14
Asbestos-in-Schools Rule 38
Examples of Regional Lead-Based Paint Activities 52
Superfund Evaluation of Lead-Contaminated Soil 58
Oklahoma Agin the Classroom Program 91
Texas Structural Pest Control Board IPM in Schools Program 92
Superfund Site Evaluation 123
Human Health Risk Assessments/Risk Assessment Work Plans 124
Give Water a Hand 144
Aquatic Education Exhibit 148
Environmental Awareness and Testing Program 149
Use of a Geographic Information System (GIS) to Gather and Analyze Information
for Regional Programs 156
ReqioN 7
RegionallAQ Tools for Schools Programs 14
Indoor Air Environment Program for Children 18
"Home Cleaning for Asthma Attack Control" Program 20
Radon Outreach 38
Asbestos-in-Schools Rule 38
Examples of Regional Lead-Based Paint Activities 52
ReqioN 8
RegionallAQ Tools for Schools Programs 14
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Indoor Air Environment Program for Children 18
Industrial Chrome Plating Emergency Response 58
Residential Cleanups of Lead-Contaminated Soil 59
Emergency Response 76
Mercury Neurotoxicity in Children 77
Flood-Related Disease in Children 113
Hazardous Waste 124
ReqioN 9
Regional IAQ Tools for Schools Programs 14
Indoor Air Environment Program for Children 18
Asbestos-in-Schools Rule 38
Vinyl Chloride Risk Assessment Approach for Children 40
Site Assessment in Response to Cancer in Children 41
Examples of Regional Lead-Based Paint Activities 52
Environmental Epidemiological Survey of Lead Exposure of Children in
Tijuana, Mexico 59
Risk Assessment in Region 9 125
Preliminary Remediation Goals to Protect Children 125
Epidemiological Survey of Lead Exposure of Children in Tijuana, Mexico 135
ReqioN 10
Tribal Children Blood Lead Hazards 60
Oregon Legal Services Corporation Grant 60
Migrant Worker Housing Facility Lead and Arsenic Survey 61
Bunker Hill Superfund Site Childhood Blood Lead Study 61
Yakima Children Blood Lead Study 61
Columbia River Intertribal Fish Commission (CRITFC) Study 116
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