A Look Inside Irwindale’s Temporary Hazardous Waste Processing Site
The Site
Walk into Lario Park in Irwindale and you’ll see shipping containers, heavy machinery, and barrels meant to store dangerous materials all framed within fences. It’s the place where crews will carefully process toxic items left from the Eaton Fire – a controversial site chosen by the Environmental Protection Agency that’s left nearby residents concerned.
The Process
In its fact sheets, the agency explains that toxic waste from the Eaton Fire will be taken to the Irwindale site for processing. From there, it will be transported to another site for safe disposal. Toxic materials that will be processed at the site include lithium batteries, paint, oils, and more.
Safety Measures
“I think the priority is to make sure that health and safety is No. 1,” said LA County Supervisor Hilda Solis. “And so, we don’t want to — what we don’t want to do is disrupt what they’re doing. I believe, and while it wasn’t my choice to pick this place, I, as a county representative for this area, have to work with the other local elected officials.”
Logistics
The EPA said processing at Lario Park will take about 30 days or more. “Those are the two primary missions — make it safe and sort the materials out so they don’t end up in the landfills,” said Harry Allen, EPA coordinator.
To minimize driving through neighborhood streets, the federal agency will transport the toxins on the 210 Freeway for the roughly 16-mile drive. It also said crews are making efforts to make sure none of the materials come in contact with the ground.
Mitigating Risks
The site is equipped with air monitors that detect radiation, particulates, and other organic compounds for the safety of the workers and nearby communities.
Conclusion
The temporary hazardous waste processing site at Lario Park is a necessary step in the cleanup of the Eaton Fire. While it may be a controversial location, the EPA is taking steps to ensure the safety of the community and the workers processing the toxic materials.
FAQs
Q: How long will the processing take?
A: The EPA estimates it will take about 30 days or more to complete the processing.
Q: What types of materials will be processed at the site?
A: Toxic materials such as lithium batteries, paint, oils, and more will be processed at the site.
Q: How will the materials be transported to and from the site?
A: The materials will be transported on the 210 Freeway for the roughly 16-mile drive to minimize driving through neighborhood streets.
Q: Are there any safety measures in place to protect the community?
A: Yes, the site is equipped with air monitors that detect radiation, particulates, and other organic compounds for the safety of the workers and nearby communities.
