June 2008
Retrospective Exposure Analysis for Trichloroethylene (TCE), Perchlorate, and N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) in Tap Water
Our Challenge
- We were retained in response to a lawsuit filed by residents claiming that their drinking water was contaminated by numerous chemicals related to a local rocket engine test site.
- Trichloroethylene (TCE), perchlorate, and n-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) were the Chemicals of Concern.
- Multiple cancer and non-cancer health effects were claimed.
Our Approach
- Potential exposure pathways were identified. We estimated the magnitude of possible exposure for each individual plaintiff.
- We evaluated direct exposure via ingestion, dermal exposure, and inhalation and a risk assessment was conducted.
Our Findings
- Most of the chemicals that were named by the plaintiffs were found to be at concentrations below health based standards and other toxicity criterion.
- Even though there was evidence that TCE, perchlorate, and NDMA could have been present in the drinking water, the exposure would not have been sufficient to increase the health risk.