TCE Around Trappe and Collegeville

Residents has given much attention given to the levels of trichloroethylene (TCE) found in the air around Trappe and Collegeville. The government agency with primary responsibility for overseeing the TCE issue is the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). This page provides summary information, answers to common questions, and links for more information about TCE.

Sources and Levels of TCE

TCE is released into the air by two local manufacturing sites that use TCE for degreasing tubing. Measurements in 2007 showed TCE levels to be ~10 times higher than other DEP testing sites, although 2008 measurements have show significant reductions (from 0.75ppb to 0.05ppb). Even at the 2007 levels, however, the DEP reported that total levels of volatile organic compounds and the overall air quality were similar to other areas of the state.

Health Risks

The DEP conclusion is that the health risk is very small even when estimated conservatively. A county health department study found cancer rates are at or below average. DEP studies of ground water indicates only trace TCE and Public Works quaterly testing of drinking water indicates it is free of TCE.

TCE Reductions

Residents have asked the local manufacturers to eliminate TCE emissions, and both firms have begun voluntary efforts to stop TCE emissions. As mentioned above, the DEP has measured significant reductions since these efforts began.

Department of Environmental Protection

The DEP online source for TCE issues in the Trappe/Collegeville area is maintained at this website. This site includes ongoing reporting of milestones met by local manufacturers in their clean up efforts, updated air measurements, and other announcements.

Montgomery County Health Department

In response to municpal requests, including one from Trappe Borough, the Montgomery Country Health Department did an analysis of cancer rates in the area. It concluded kidney rates to be normal and lung cancer rates to be below average. The full report, including methodology and limitations, can be found here.

Public Works

The Collegeville-Trappe Joint Public Works (CTJPW) operates air strippers to remove any TCE found in the groundwater so that it is not found in public drinking water. A report on the emissions from the CTJPW air strippers, which indicate only small amounts are emitted, can be found here.