Tests show caustic chemical still flowing in Cobb creek

SMYRNA, Ga. — There are new concerns over a chemical spill in a Cobb County creek. New tests show a caustic chemical is still in the water and may have flowed into the Chattahoochee River.

Channel 2's Richard Elliot was at the site of the spill where the chemical spilled from company on Cobb Industrial Boulevard into a creek earlier in August.

That creek eventually flows into the Chattahoochee.

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Riverkeepers took samples along a creek bed Wednesday afternoon. They say there are still traces of that caustic carburetor cleaning solvent two weeks after officials say the spill at Apollo Technologies sent 2,300 gallons into the water.

"We did sampling downstream from that containment area, and while we saw lower concentrations than what we saw up near the chemical spill, we're seeing chemicals make their way out of the containment which flows down into the Chattahoochee," said riverkeeper Jason Seth.
 
The company did organize a clean-up effort which included a containment dam, but it could still face fines and other enforcement actions.

The company sent a statement to WSB-TV:

"-- Since August 13, when approximately 2,300 gallons of carburetor cleaner leaked into a nearby creek, professional engineers have completed a full inspection of our equipment and facilities. We are continuing to implement enhancements to ensure that something like this never happens again. Once the enhancements have been completed, we will return the plant to its typical operating schedule.

-- Throughout the cleanup process, we have worked in close coordination with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD). Both agencies confirmed that there were no concerns about drinking water or air quality.

-- Additionally, our test results show that there is no longer any risk to wildlife and there was never a health risk to humans. According to the EPA, the concentration of the chemical, Naphthalene, in the surface water of the creek significantly diminished throughout the cleanup process, as intended. The remaining trace amounts are well below what the EPA and EPD consider to be safe, acceptable levels.

-- We are continuing to improve our facility and containment safeguards. We understand the frustration this incident caused and are grateful for the community's patience throughout this process."

Cox Media Group