Vapor Intrusion: Migration of Chemical Vapors in the Soil to Indoor Air
Vapor intrusion is a term used to describe the process in which chemical vapors from contaminated soil or groundwater affect the indoor air quality in a building. Whenever chemicals are spilled on the ground or leak from an underground storage tank, they can soak into the soil or dissolve into the groundwater and begin to spread. The contaminated soil or groundwater can emit vapors that spread to areas occupied by buildings. Vapors can enter the buildings through cracks in basements, foundations, sewer lines, and any other type of opening. Occasionally, the vapors can increase to concentrations that may be harmful to human health.
IDEM is currently developing a pilot program to evaluate the risk posed by this pathway. This website will be a clearinghouse for information regarding IDEM's vapor intrusion program. You will be able to find the latest guidance from IDEM, the EPA, and other states. The site will also contain learning resources for citizens who may be worried about vapor intrusion in their homes.
- What should I do with my old computers and electronics?
- Where can I recycle?
- What are “Pay-as-You-Throw” programs?
- How can I get funding for recycling programs?
- What is “household hazardous waste”?
- Why is mercury dangerous?
- What is composting and how do I do it?
- What are the benefits of recycling?
- Where can I find information about available IDEM grants, loans, or funds?
- Where can I find information about flooding?
