Air tests show high levels of toxic metals
Independent testing of the air in the neighborhoods downwind of the Custom Alloys (CASS) scrap metal smelter has shown high levels of heavy metals- nickel and cadmium in samples. Both heavy metals are known to cause cancer.  Breathing high levels of cadmium in the air can result in kidney disease, lung damage or fragile bones. Air tests taken upwind and away from the smelter show no nickel or cadmium.

Four air tests confirmed cadmium particles in the air up to 12 times higher than what the World Health Organization (WHO) considers safe.  One air test showed levels of nickel particles 11 times higher than considered safe by the World Health Organization.  Independent testing is necessary because the Air District does not operate air monitors for toxics in your neighborhood.

Health effects of exposure to multiple heavy metals
The air tests also show significant amounts of lead, manganese, chromium, copper and zinc together with aluminum in small particles, which can be breathed deep into the lungs.  No Public Health Agency in the United States or globally has sent health based standards for exposure to multiple heavy metals found in the sample results.  However, there is widespread consensus that exposure to multiple toxic metals creates an increased health risk. Those that have asthma or other lung problems should be particularly careful.

While levels of lead in the samples did not exceed a health based standard, any exposure results in accumulation in the human brain which over time may become a serious health risk, especially to children.

Where are the toxic metals coming from?
According to tests taken at the CASS facility and submitted to the Air District, their own tests show nickel, cadmium, lead, manganese, chromium, copper and zinc.  These are the same metals that are being found in the air by independent testing along with aluminum, which is what CASS produces as a product.  Tests of the air taken upwind from CASS do not show these same metals present at significant levels.

Noise, Blight, Heavy truck traffic, Street Blockage/Safety and Dioxin
Neighbors of CASS are also concerned about the 24 hour operations of the smelter that causes very loud noise at all hours, especially late at night/early morning.  The rusting and blighted structures along 28th Street appear ready to fall and cause a safety hazard to the public.  Heavy diesel trucks often idle causing excessive diesel pollution and block public streets causing safety concerns, including possible blockage of the fire lane that could slow emergency response. 

Dioxin, the most dangerous chemical toxin known, was also found in tests taken at CASS.

Join your neighbors who are organizing a community group to get CASS to be a good neighbor and take action to reduce its air pollution, noise, blight and safety problems.  We have monthly meetings at the Recreation Center at 3131 Union Street.

If you smell chemical or metallic odors, call the City of Oakland 24 hour Complaint line: 510-444-3322 .  

Also call the Air District and complain at 800-334-6367 and request a copy of their investigation.  Keep a log sheet of odor, noise and safety issues you witness and bring the sheets to monthly meeting so they can be compiled.