[SRRA] Important Information about Vapor Mitigation Systems and Power Outages

Property owners with vapor mitigation systems (also known as subsurface depressurization systems) are advised that a power outage that shuts down a vapor mitigation system for a short period of time (several days to weeks) does not create an immediate health hazard. The system was installed to reduce the occupants' exposure to very low levels of organic vapors over an extended period of time, between 25 to 30 years. In addition, when the system was installed, cracks and other openings that could provide pathways for vapors to enter the building were most likely sealed. If vapors do enter the building due to a power outage, short-term exposure to low levels of organic vapors over several days to weeks will not significantly increase the occupants' risk for health problems.

If they choose to, occupants can take the following actions to reduce exposure to organic vapors during a power outage:

1. Limit your time in the basement or lowest floor of the building as much as possible.
2. If the power outage continues for many days, create cross ventilation in the basement or lowest floor if the outdoor temperatures are tolerable. Cross ventilation draws outdoor air in one window and exhausts it out another window. This process does not have to be performed continuously and can be done periodically.
3. Do not simply open windows or turn on ventilation fans, as this may draw organic vapors from the subsurface into the building.

Additional information about vapor intrusion can be found on the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's Site Remediation Program website at https://www.nj.gov/dep/srp/guidance/vaporintrusion/.

SRP Site Remediation Reform Act (SRRA) Web site: https://www.nj.gov/dep/srp/srra/