Records from the Department of Defense reveal that the groundwater of at least nine military bases near Chesapeake Bay is contaminated with hazardous fluorine-based chemicals, according to the Environmental Working Group.
PFAS chemicals are dangerous contaminants found at Defense Fuel Support Point Craney Island
The Defense Fuel Support Point (DFSP) Craney Island is one of the military installations that have been investigated for the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a class of fluorinated synthetic chemicals. In 2022, the Navy finalized its preliminary assessment of six release areas at DFSP Craney Island, where it was found that PFAS was present in at least six of these areas. The most probable source of these chemicals is the use of firefighting foam, a type of film-forming foam material used to suppress fires ignited by flammable liquids, such as fuel.
The Navy identified the following contaminated areas and the hazardous substances detected:
- Underground Storage Tank. PFAS, petroleum, oil, and lubricants were present at the storage site.
- Site 1 - Former Ballast Disposal (Sludge) Lagoons. The sludge site contained PFAS, total recoverable petroleum hydrocarbons, and benzene.
- Site 2 - Oil Sludge Land Spreading Area. The sludge site also contained PFAS, total recoverable petroleum hydrocarbons, and benzene.
- Site 6 - Oily Sludge Land Spreading Area. PFAS was detected along with the presence of oily sludge.
- Site 7 - Firefighting Training Pit. PFAS and waste oil were present at the firefighting ground, which is suspected to be from the use of firefighting foam.
With hazardous chemicals detected in multiple areas, DFSP Craney Island is now undergoing a Remedial Investigation, as part of the cleanup process required by the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). Authorities have also taken steps to address the serious negative consequences that PFAS-contaminated soil and groundwater may have on the health of military personnel and surrounding communities.
What health conditions are linked to PFAS exposure at the Defense Fuel Support Point Craney Island?
The PFAS chemicals detected in hundreds of military installations include PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonate). PFOA has been classified as carcinogenic to humans, while PFOS has been categorized as possibly carcinogenic to humans. Multiple studies have also found that PFAS chemicals have been linked to an increased risk of testicular cancer, liver cancer, and kidney cancer. ELG Law can assist you in filing claims if you have been exposed to PFAS at Defense Fuel Support Point Craney Island and developed any of the PFAS-related conditions below.
