The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry says the Ram Leather Care Site in Charlotte, N.C., once a public health hazard because of contaminated water, is now classified as an indeterminate public health hazard, meaning that critical information is lacking to establish the current level of hazard.

Private drinking wells that were contaminated above federal drinking water standards have been fitted with water treatment systems designed to remove contaminants from well water. Because it is up to individual residents to maintain their own water treatment systems, ATSDR is unable to confirm proper operation and maintenance of the water treatment systems, which contributes to the indeterminate public health hazard clarification.

For many years, people living near the Ram Leather Care site may have been exposed to contaminants in their well water at concentrations above federal drinking water standards.

In the public health assessment released Jan. 31, ATSDR scientists identify, evaluate and provide conclusions about public health issues related to potential exposure to well water contaminants.

ATSDR found that:

• Residents who were exposed to the maximum concentration of contaminants for 25 years may have a moderate increased risk for developing cancer.
• Children who were exposed to the highest concentration of contaminants may be at an increased risk for developing non-cancerous health problems such as liver and kidney damage, although the likelihood of these effects is low.

Former employees of the Ram Leather Care facility who drank contaminated water from the on-site well may be at increased risk for non-cancerous health effects such as liver and kidney damage, if they were exposed to the maximum concentration of contaminants, although the likelihood of the effects is low. And, they may have a moderate increased risk for cancer.

ATSDR recommends the following:

• Continue monitoring private wells in the area that may be affected by chemicals from the site.
• Provide alternative water supplies for homes where contaminant levels are above the drinking water standards.
• Maintain water treatment systems and monitor the quality of the water until contamination stops or an alternative water supply is established.
• Seek a long-term remedy for residents in the area who use well water for drinking.
• Take measures to ensure that the well on the Ram Leather Care property is not used for drinking purposes.

The public health assessment can be viewed at:

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Public Library
6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road
Charlotte, N.C.

Community members who have questions about the report can contact Community Involvement Specialist Januett Smith-George or Health Assessor Teresa Foster, toll-free, at 1-888-422-8737. Regional Representative Benjamin Moore also may be contacted, toll free, at 1-800-241-1754, ext. 21784. Callers should refer to the Ram Leather Care Superfund Site.

ATSDR, a federal public health agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, evaluates the human health effects of exposure to hazardous substances.