New Tests Reveal Hazardous Chemicals Near Plant

Residents in Rochester, Beaver County, are expressing relief and concern following new air quality test results. For months, locals reported an overpowering chemical odor, with some comparing it to nail polish remover. Recent testing, initiated by community organizations like the Beaver County Marcellus Awareness Community and the Breathe Project, has identified specific compounds in Rochester's air that are absent in other regional samples.

Among the concerning findings is methyl methacrylate (MMA), a hazardous air pollutant detected in all four Rochester air samples. This contrasts with samples taken across Beaver County. The presence of MMA and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) raises questions about the source of the persistent smell.

These air-quality findings follow an inspection by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection of wastewater discharged by the Sherwin-Williams plant. State inspectors observed evidence of pollutants in the public sewer system, including white foam and elevated VOC levels in manholes. In one instance, testing was halted due to significant readings that posed health concerns to the inspection team.

Residents, like Kristina Warnick, feel their homes are no longer safe, especially with children present. They question the adequacy of safety measures and transparency regarding potential exposure risks, particularly after regulatory agencies paused their own testing due to immediate health concerns. Sherwin-Williams has not yet commented on the latest air quality findings. The Beaver County Marcellus Awareness Community continues to offer air testing resources to concerned residents.