Identification and Remediation of a Wastewater Discharge Violation
NIH Leased Building at 5625 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD

Project Overview

Location: NIH Leased Building, 5625 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD
Event: Autumn of 2017
Service Provider: 3D Enviro

In response to a notice of violation for exceeding mercury limits in wastewater, 3D Enviro undertook an urgent environmental assessment and remediation at an NIH-leased research facility. This case study highlights the complexities of tracing and mitigating mercury sources in laboratory environments.

Challenge: Exceeding Wastewater Mercury Limits

The Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) issued a notice of violation to the facility due to mercury levels surpassing statutory limits. Identifying and mitigating the source of mercury was critical to complying with environmental regulations and preventing potential health hazards.

Approach: Comprehensive Mercury Source Identification

3D Enviro's response included detailed investigations to pinpoint the mercury sources:

• Testing and Analysis: Employed the Ohio Lumex Mercury Analyzer to assess mercury levels in various sinks and drains within the facility.
• Targeted Sites: Focus was placed on laboratory sinks, janitor sinks, and other potential discharge points like floor drains and fume hood cup sinks.

Findings and Immediate Actions

Initial testing indicated several high-risk areas:

• Elevated Mercury Levels: Six laboratory sinks and one janitor sink showed significantly higher mercury levels compared to the ambient background.
• Further Investigation: Continued testing of downstream drainpipes from the affected sinks revealed persistent high mercury levels.

Remediation Efforts

3D Enviro implemented several remediation strategies to address the contamination:

• Sink and Drainpipe Treatment: Removed p-traps of affected sinks and applied a mercury vapor suppressant followed by hydro-jetting in the drainpipes.
• Wastewater Management: Isolated the building’s wastewater flow into a neutralization tank to prevent further violations during the cleanup process.
• Hazardous Waste Disposal: Safely disposed of the neutralization tank's contents as hazardous waste.

Results: Effective Mercury Reduction

Post-decontamination testing showed significant improvements:

• Successful Clearance Levels: All but one sink drainpipe tested below the post-decontamination clearance level of 1,000 ng/m3.
• Specific Case Management: One problematic sink in a second-floor lab was further investigated, leading to the discovery and remediation of a highly contaminated section of the drainpipe.

Conclusion: Ensuring Compliance and Safety

This project addressed the immediate compliance issues and underscored the importance of rigorous environmental safety practices in research facilities. 3D Enviro’s effective management and technical approach resulted in a quick resolution of the violation, demonstrating our commitment to environmental stewardship and public health.

Facing similar environmental challenges? Contact 3D Enviro for expert environmental assessment and remediation services. Our team is equipped to handle complex environmental issues, ensuring your operations meet all regulatory standards and maintain a safe working environment.

A view of the strainers tested for mercury vapor with the Ohio Lumex. Water in them was also sampled by DEP for total mercury analysis.

A hazardous materials worker inserts the tubing to pump MerconGEL™ into the downstream pipe.