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Questions and Answers for the Record 



Hearing Before House MM&F-OGM&OCS on 30 March 1993 



Ocean Disposal of Contaminated Dredge Material 



Question from Mr. Green - Has there been any research on the 

 health risk associated with physical contact or accidental 

 ingestion of contaminated sediments? 



ANSWER Dr. Engler: The Corps has not conducted direct research 

 on the human health risks associated with physical contact or 

 accidental ingestion of contaminated sediments. We rely on 

 research conducted by other agencies and programs responsible for 

 assessing such risks and establishing criteria and protection 

 requirements from potential exposure of humans, such as EPA and 

 the Food and Drug Administration. Our research does address the 

 processes for identifying sediments containing contaminants and 

 the procedures necessary for handling, control and potential 

 remediation of such materials. These efforts would include 

 analyzing mechanisms to minimize the health risk to humans 

 involved in the process. It also addresses the assessment of 

 risk to humans and the environment in determining actions be 

 taken with contaminated dredged material. 



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