Source EPA
Air
Air Data >>
EPA has observed odor-causing pollutants associated with oil on the shore in the gulf region at low levels. Some of these chemicals
may cause short-lived effects like headache, eye, nose and throat irritation, or nausea. Some people may be able to smell several of these chemicals at levels well below those that would cause short-term health problems.
EPA is also conducting additional air monitoring for ozone and airborne particulate matter. The air monitoring conducted through June 28 has found levels of ozone and particulates ranging from the "good" to "unhealthy for sensitive groups" levels on EPA's Air Quality Index.
Water
Water Data >>
Surface water results collected along the Gulf coast on June 22 & 23, 2010 found no compounds exceeding chronic water benchmarks.
Sediment
Sediment Data >>
Sediment samples collected June 20, 2010 along the Gulf coast did not reveal elevated levels for chemicals that are usually found in oil.
Waste Management
Waste Information >>
EPA deployed field teams to collect a small number of samples of oily debris, tar balls, mousse oil and other petroleum waste products that have washed up on the shore along the Gulf Coast. Preliminary results have only shown chemical constituents that are usually found in petroleum products and typical health precautions should be taken.