Worker and Public Health Considerations Associated With Mine CERCLA (Superfund) Operations

Non-operational mine facilities are subject to placement on the EPA's National Priority List (Superfund). Once a mine site is undergoing investigation and/or remediation, MSHA regulations for health and safety may no longer be applicable. This paper addresses the changes in the applicable and relevant standards that apply to health and safety and public health related to site contaminants. The implementation of health and safety plans, and the development of public health risk assessments are described. Examples are presented from Superfund activities at the Eagle Mine, near Minturn, Colorado; the Anaconda Smelter near Mill Creek, Montana; California Gulch near Leadville, Colorado; and Bunker Hill, Idaho.