Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory takes precautionary action

The U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center's Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory exercised a precautionary evacuation of the two main laboratory buildings on the morning of March 19 at approximately 10:30 a.m. (EDT).

The action was taken in accordance with an internal Trichloroethylene Monitoring and Response action plan following the release of legacy TCE vapor during scheduled renovations. 

Although measured TCE levels were reportedly below established federal health and safety standards, local emergency responders were contacted and a precautionary evacuation order was issued as a part of the safety protocol outlined in the TCE Monitoring and Response Action Plan.

The Laboratory returned to full and normal operations March 21, 2019.

CRREL's TCE Monitoring and Response Action Plan is currently being revised to include notification of other non-emergency organizations within the area.

CRREL values open and honest communication with our local community.

Please submit any questions via our ERDC Operations Center: ERDCinfo@usace.army.mil