gnificantlycontribute to localized air concentrations. The models include appropriate parameters forparticle size that largely determine settling rates and travel times. The modeled dispersionalso conservatively neglects wet deposition. Wet deposition occurs during precipitation (rain,snow events) and serves to limit dispersion. Neglecting this term increases the range andconcentration of potential dispersion.
ATSDR Response: The above factors have all been considered in the development of the healthcomparison values, the Public Health Assessment, and by reference, in this health consultation.
- Once again it is apparent that the ATSDR, while recognizing the variety andconcentration of contaminants at PGDP, has failed to address their combined effectwhen concluding "...estimated concentrations of all metal particulates from PGDPsmelter operations are below levels of health concern, (and that) no adverse healtheffects are likely...." In fact, inhaling a mixture of pollutants , individually or incombined form, can magnify the effect several times over the effect of inhaling anyone pollutant individually.
- The Health Consultation did not include specific mailing instructions for individualssending comments. Since a telephone inquiry seeking those instructions was notreturned I have sent our comments to the same address as comments for the PGDPHealth Assessment.
ATSDR Response: See above for response to assessing cumulative effects to differentcontaminants. ATSDR considered cumulative, additive, synergistic, and antagonistic effectsof exposure to the extent of scientific knowledge in this area. Information and referencesrelated to ATSDR's process of evaluation have been added to the consultation (and to thisappendix).
ATSDR Response: Instructions for mailing of written comments will be added to futureATSDR consultation cover pages (Health Consultation: A Note of Explanation) for healthconsultations. Thank you for bringing this to our attention.
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