HUNTINGTON, WV (WOWK) – Nickel emissions into the air from the Special Metals facility could have “potential lifetime health risks” for residents on the eastern side of Huntington, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

The data comes from the newest version of the EPA’s AirToxScreen, or Air Toxics Screening Assessment. The AirToxScreen tool is used to estimate the lifetime potential health risks from exposure to toxic air pollutants and identifies areas of concern across the US that the exposure could impact.

According to the EPA, long-term inhalation exposure to nickel emissions can lead to some non-cancer health effects, such as a risk of asthma, decreased lung function or bronchitis. The EPA also says nickel refinery dust can cause an increased risk of nasal and lung cancers to workers who are exposed to it.

One neighbor who asked not to be identified told 13 News the AirToxScreen results are concerning and wants to know if the plant has knowingly been ignoring the potential of health risks in their production.

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“I am concerned about nickel inhalation from the plant, as the Department of Environmental Protection’s tests reflect what we, as neighboring homeowners, have always feared,” the neighbor said. “The plant appears to be knowingly ignoring these significant health risks to the public and its surrounding neighbors, and they have not reached out to any residents or provided information regarding their test results.”

The neighbor said they also want to know if Special Metals would be responsible if someone does develop a medical condition due to the plant’s nickel emissions.

“Will they now provide surrounding homeowners with medical appointments to see if they have been affected? I honestly feel they have neglected their responsibility as a corporation to protect the environment and the surrounding homeowners. Truly, they should be shamed and stop looking at their bottom dollar,” the neighbor said.

To answer these and any more questions people may have, the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection has scheduled a public meeting for 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 30, in the Junior Ballroom/Hall 7 at the Marshall Health Network Arena to discuss the new EPA findings. Staff from the WVDEP’s Division of Air Quality will be on hand to share a brief presentation on the AirToxScreen results and answer questions. Officials with the WV Department of Health’s Bureau for Public Health will also be at the meeting.

WOWK 13 News has reached out to Special Metals for comment. We will let you know when we hear back.

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