Science and Technology (Bromley) 1991 [2]

Originally Processed With FOIA(s): FOIA Number: 1998-0004-F[1]; 2005-0336-F S FOIA MARKER This is not a textual record. This is used as an administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential Library Staff. Record Group/Collection: George H.W. Bush Presidential Records Collection/Office of Origin: Chief of Staff, White House Office of Series: Sununu, John, Files Subseries: White House Offices Files OA/ID Number: 29184 Folder ID Number: 29184-002 Folder Title: Science and Technology (Bromley) (1991) [2] Stack: Row: Section: Shelf: Position: G 15 25 6 1 THE WHITE HOUSE Amil2.91 hourth a cary gihe interagency cheau you etyet, interin pepart on The Ruwait Oil fire. - the appendiciane interesting. Alan Dear John: In case you haven't seen it yet, herewith a copy of the interagency interim report on the Kuwait oil fields. The appendices are interesting. THE CHIEF of STAFF has seen [OA/ID 29184-002] SCIENCE AND TECH NOLOGY (BROMLEG) FF&Z 1991(2) Draft Kuwait KUWAIT IRAN Oil Fires: BAHRAIN Interagency OMAN Interim QATAR SAUDI UNITED ARAB SEATRATES 20° Report ARABIA April 2, 1991 KUWAIT OIL FIRES INTERAGENCY INTERIM REPORT I. SUMMARY More than 500 oil well, storage tank and refinery, and facility fires are currently raging in Kuwait and each day produce an enormous amount of smoke and other pollutants. The quantity and character of the smoke plumes are not yet certain, and the fires are expected to continue for some period. The fires originate in seven oil fields, located both north and south of Kuwait City, with the majority centered in the AI Burgan oil field south of the Kuwait City airport. The fires may represent one of the most extraordinary manmade environmental disasters in recorded history. In response to this situation, the Saudi Government requested U.S. technical assistance on the public health and environmental impact of the fires. The U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia concurred in this request, and voiced its additional concerns about the health effects of the fires on the hundreds of thousands of U.S. troops in the region as well as the thousands of American citizens residing in Saudi Arabia and the other Gulf countries. Similar concerns were also expressed in Kuwait. An Interagency Air Assessment Team consisting of representatives from the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Department of Health and Human Services was formed and deployed to the Persian Gulf area. In country, this team was supplemented by representatives of the United States Coast Guard, the Department of Defense, and the Department of Energy. The specific mission of the team was to assess the conditions through air sampling and monitoring in oil fields and other areas to determine the effect on public health; to review the health infrastructure; to determine the capability of the region to deal with the health threat through air monitoring and appropriate corrective action; and to provide technical assistance. Further, the team was to provide specific recommendation for follow-up action. Meteorological conditions over the past two months have tended to transport the smoke plume toward the southeast, with periodic excursions toward the northeast. March through July are relatively windy months; there are normally 30 days of very strong winds from the northwest in this period, which produce sandstorms and rapidly ventilate the smoke. From August to October, the incidence of strong winds should drop sharply. The plume is generally below about 12,000 feet. As the summer progresses, it is possible that the height of the plume will increase and that it will then be evident to greater distances. Emissions from oil fires may have the potential of causing health effects of both an acute and chronic nature, although there is considerable uncertainty as to the extent of the threat. Chemicals such as sulfur dioxide and hydrogen sulfide as well as carbon monoxide and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are often found along with particulate matter in oil fires. While only a limited assessment is possible at this time, the Team did not detect such chemicals in any significant quantity; also, preliminary analysis of the substantial amount of particulate matter did not reveal any chemicals at levels of concern. However, this suggests that the locations where sampling and monitoring were performed and the protocol used were not able to detect the high levels of pollutant except for particulates, and more data on particulates and potential toxic agents need to be collected to characterize the inhalable particulates, determine the health consequences, and develop a response for the affected population. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** 1 The host nation governments also provided the Team with an abundance of preexisting air monitoring information covering the past several years in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain. These data provide a useful baseline on limited parameters for comparing the conditions that exist and may evolve during the next several months. The Team concurred with the Saudi Government's view that the considerable Saudi public and private sector competence in air monitoring would need to be supplemented with support and technical assistance. This situation is even more acute in Kuwait City due to the lack of power and to the disruption of the governmental and scientific infrastructure. The Team considered it of critical importance that additional technical assistance be provided to the countries. There is need to consider the overall problem from several perspectives so as to ensure economy as well as success. First, because high levels of particulates were found in the air, and prolonged exposure to particulate matter may contribute to respiratory discomfort and perhaps long-term or permanent respiratory disorder, it will be necessary to find out what is in the plume and how it varies over time and distance. Second, we should assess the immediate and long-term human health risk. Third, we should quantify effects on the environment, especially on crops and climate. II. TEAM'S ACTIVITIES AND FINDINGS With the assistance of the Saudi and Kuwaiti Governments, the U.S. Interagency Air Assessment Team has been conducting a reconnaissance survey of the fire plumes and their effects in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia since March 10, 1991. The primary objective of the Team was to obtain preliminary, short-term data on the emissions from the smoke emanating from the oil well fires at a variety of locations, in order to: 1. Determine if there is an acute health threat associated with the Hydrogen Sulfide (H₂S) and Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂) and particulates, three toxic pollutants that might be emitted from burning oil wells; 2. Identify and quantify the gaseous and particulate byproducts being produced from the burning oil wells; and 3. Determine if the materials associated with these fires are affecting areas where American citizens are located. 4. Assess the potential extent of the health effects related to the emissions from the fires and the status of the Kuwaiti and Saudi health infrastructure. Based on these objectives, limited, real-time data was obtained directly from the Kuwait oil fields, as well as from Kuwait and Saudi Arabia locations where embassy officials, troops, and citizens work and reside. Additionally, the Team conducted a number of interviews with health officials to evaluate the extent of acute respiratory problems related to smoke exposure. While only a cursory assessment is possible at this point, some data obtained by the team were encouraging. The preliminary findings are as follows: 1. Limited sampling did not reveal the existence of high concentrations of sulfur dioxide or hydrogen sulfide near the burning wells or in population areas in the path of the oil well emissions; 2. High levels of particulate were found in the air; *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** 2 3. The results of the current monitoring findings and health interviews with medical personnel in the affected areas suggest that at the present time susceptible subpopulations, such as individuals with asthma and chronic obstructive lung disease, may experience exacerbation of their symptoms. Special health concerns, warnings, advisories, and precautions are clearly warranted for these individuals. However, this does not appear to be life threatening under current exposure conditions. However, if meteorological conditions change, i.e., poor air mixing or plume touchdown, there could be adverse health effects; and, 4. The long-term effects on health are not readily ascertainable at this time due to insufficient data on the populations exposed, the composition of the smoke plume, the impact of oil pools, and long-term meteorological patterns. The Kuwaiti and Saudi health communities have historically focused on communicable diseases from a public health standpoint and do not possess the necessary logistical capabilities for responding to environmental health issues. However, both the Kuwaiti and Saudi health communities have expressed great interest in obtaining training and support from the US medical community that can be continued by themselves in future years. Aggravating the problem is the severe damage done to the scientific infrastructure of Kuwait thus limiting the current in-country analytic capabilities. Any response by the US would have to include both training and equipment. The Team has stressed, however, that their observations represent only a preliminary assessment and that considerable follow-up will be necessary to evaluate definitively the nature and magnitude of the human health, ecological, and atmospheric effects of the oil fires. III. PROPOSED PROGRAM The local populations are being exposed to an increased health risk, the magnitude of which cannot be estimated with any degree of certainty without further measurements and surveys. The extent to which conditions may worsen needs to be understood and a forecast capability developed. Without such measurements and assessment, and development of a predictive capability, the regional population remains exposed to an uncertain risk, and reconstruction of the area may be impeded. Moreover, without such input, an accurate and defensible quantification of environmental effects will not be possible. In addition to providing direct answers to questions regarding the effects of the smoke plumes on the atmospheric environment, intensive studies of the plumes will accelerate progress in understanding manmade effects on regional and global air quality, meteorology, and climate. Because the expected changes in air chemistry, solar radiation, and cloud microstructure are so large, observations of these processes could circumvent the need for many years of study directed at much lesser phenomena. The program proposed below is comprised of three primary elements: human health surveillance and risk assessment, air monitoring, and development of a forecast capability. These elements will be closely linked to achieve the goals of understanding and predicting the degree of human health risk and the effects on atmospheric processes. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** 3 1. Air Monitoring The objective of the air monitoring program is to collect the necessary data to determine the nature and concentration of pollutants associated with the fires, and demonstrate the recovery of the environment as the fires are extinguished. The development and deployment of an integrated monitoring network will serve several interrelated purposes. It will assure data consistency throughout the region. It will provide better data to assess the immediate health risk and potential for long term risks. It will be used to initiate, test, and refine forecast models discussed later in this plan, and thus greatly assist in the development of location and condition specific alerts -- assisting in issuing special advisories for populations at risk under unique conditions. Lastly, it will provide a better basis for scientific understanding and knowledge of the important regional and international issues and will assist in assessing possible extended consequences of the fires. The U.S. Interagency Air Assessment Team is working with the Saudi Arabian Meteorology and Environmental Protection Agency (MEPA), Saudi ARAMCO, and King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals to develop an air monitoring plan for the Gulf Region that will provide the air monitoring data to assess the impact of the Kuwaiti fires in Saudi Arabia. While focused primarily on the needs of Saudi Arabia, the plan forms the general basis for a regional network that should meet the needs of other Gulf nations as well. The following activities are proposed in cooperation with and support of the host governments: immediate steps would be taken to collect and analyze meteorological observations and forecasts, record visual observations of the smoke plume, and review existing monitoring data. Plume observations via satellite would be obtained daily, supplemented by periodic on-scene aerial transects designed to characterize the overall geometry of the plume. A ground-based sampling network of portable equipment would be installed by EPA and others at approximately 15-20 locations to measure particulate matter less than 10 microns in diameter (the particle size most likely to penetrate deeply into the lungs). The ratio of the less than 10 micron particles to total particulate load would be established. Limited organic analysis would be undertaken. Measurements of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, methane, hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide, particle size distribution, elemental and organic carbon, metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and acid aerosols would be obtained close to the fires by NASA and NIST. These measurements should attempt to characterize and categorize emissions from several specific wells. Specially equipped aircraft from the University of Washington (April 15 to May 15), NCAR (May 1 to June 1), and NOAA (July 1 to August 1) would be deployed to measure downwind plume composition and dispersion, radiative properties and climatic effects, and effects on clouds and precipitation. On the basis of the initial aircraft results, a longer-term sampling program would be designed to monitor the relaxation of the atmospheric environment as the fires are extinguished. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** 4 Six additional comprehensive air quality monitoring stations would be established along the general axis of the plume from Kuwait City to Saudi Arabia to collect data on particulates, as well as on the organic and inorganic constituents of the plume. Meteorological stations would be co-located at as many as possible of the selected monitoring sites. Data would be collected on wind, temperature, humidity, direct and diffuse radiation, soil temperature, and precipitation. Ten precipitation monitoring stations operated by WMO would be upgraded to measure departures in precipitation chemistry and restabilization to normal levels. A data and information system would be designed to provide world-wide access to data of all types related to the fires. High speed data transmission capability would be established to enable image, graphics, and text exchange among participants in the monitoring, forecast, and health elements of the program. In the short-term a temporary archive would be developed to avoid loss of key data sets. 2. Development of a Forecast Capability The objective of this activity is to develop an early warning advisory system for the Gulf and downwind regions. The system would forecast the trajectory of plumes created by the fires and compute the atmospheric concentrations of several constituents of known human health and potential environmental impact. Mathematical models of the fires and their effects are being developed by institutions in Saudi Arabia and the United States to assess the impact of the fires. The models detail the combustion process associated with each well, and predict plume rise, chemical transformations, transport and dispersion, and particle deposition. These models are in turn linked to other algorithms and databases to predict the impact of the plume on human health, and the local and distant environment (including effects on crops). A number of activities would be undertaken to complete the development of a forecast system: Short-term meteorological forecasts would be used immediately to predict the orientation and general concentration of the smoke plume throughout the region. Existing models in the U.S., Saudi Arabia, and elsewhere would be tested through air quality measurements obtained through the monitoring program described in the preceding section. As testing is completed, the models would be used to adjust the location of portable monitoring stations for optimal sampling and provide improved forecasts of plume characteristics. Selected models, when tested, would be assembled into a single computer system linked to weather forecast models available through NOAA's National Climatic Data Center. The system would form the basis of an early warning system with terminals into the system available both in the United States as well as from the Gulf region. At the conclusion of model development and testing, training and equipment would be provided to allow the modeling capability to be fully operated by appropriate agencies in the Gulf region. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** 5 3. Human Health Surveillance and Risk Assessment The objectives of this activity are to assess initial data obtained by the U.S. Interagency Air Assessment Team, to set up the needed infrastructure, and to conduct medical surveillance, epidemiological studies, and clinical field studies for the purpose of examining specific health endpoints in order to ascertain whether there are short-term and/or long-term trends in morbidity and mortality associated with exposure to the oil smoke plumes and deposition. Developing plans for and conducting a cross-disciplinary approach to human health risk assessment and health advisories is a difficult, complex and time-consuming task. The plan presented below can proceed only after accomplishing a coordinated interagency evaluation and assessment of the EPA monitoring data and other information. At that time, additional monitoring and modeling may be required. On that basis, the scope of effort, the type and number of health personnel both here and abroad, equipment, and other items cannot be identified in any detail. However, continued coordination and collaboration with the DOD and the Kuwaiti and Saudi health authorities is necessary to maintain established information sharing. Continued information sharing will aid in the development of baseline data for a complete human health risk assessment. In addition, this can help provide Kuwait with some important needed assistance in reestablishing their medical and health care infrastructure. The following tasks need immediate attention: Health advisories should be reviewed and updated for use by military and non-military personnel based on an assessment of the U.S. Interagency Air Assessment Team data and observations. Interim preventive measures should be identified and initiated including, but not limited to, the use of dust masks and limiting exercise during periods of severe smoke. Medical facilities should be alerted to the potential increased frequency of asthma attacks and eye irritations and ensure adequate supplies of appropriate medications. Protocol should be established to alert military, indigenous, and other non-military transient populations of potential health risks, particularly for high risk populations such as asthmatics, people with heart disease or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, children, and pregnant women. A plan should be developed to collect needed medical and demographic information on affected populations including health examinations and a permanent archive of service records for all U.S. personnel stationed in the Gulf. These records will be vital in order to answer future questions on the health impact of U.S. personnel serving in the Gulf. Host governments should be assisted, as requested, in baseline studies of affected populations. Develop plans for conducting medium- and long-term epidemiological and clinical studies, and establishing medical surveillance systems. Establish criteria for assessing the effectiveness of an early warning system to protect the U.S. and civilian personnel. Based on the monitoring system established by the host countries, an early warning health advisory system should be established. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** 6 These efforts should promptly follow: Non-plume and plume samples for short-term in-vitro and in-vivo toxicity and mutagenicity testing and dose response assessment should be collected. Acute and chronic health risks based on integrating information from exposure assessments, epidemiological/clinical studies, and in-vitro and in-vivo toxicity studies must be assessed. Assess the impact of oil pooling and combustion deposition on potential exposure pathways. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** 7 4. Budget Note: All activities itemized in this budget would be conducted in coordination and collaboration with the competent host country authorities. Progress in assessing the health effects of the oil fires will be regularly reviewed with the host governments. Phase I: First three months Phase II: Second three months Phase I Phase II Health Surveillance and Risk Assessment, including: $500,000 $1,500,000 Health Surveillance Short-term In-vivo/In-vitro Studies Epidemiological/Clinical Field Studies Health Risk Assessment Database Health Advisories Air Monitoring Aerial Measurements NASA 100,000 UW 850,000 350,000 NCAR 950,000 350,000 NOAA 500,000 300,000 DOE 500,000 Ground-based Measurements Initial PM-10 Sampling 55,000 55,000 Meteorological stations 375,000 90,000 Full network implementation and analysis 400,000 400,000 Air Monitoring Subt& a 30,000 2,045,000 Forecast Capability Model development 150,000 100,000 System integration 125,000 90,000 Data acquisition 50,000 50,000 Model operation 150,000 180,000 Subtotal 475,000 420,000 Data and Information Management 375,000 150,000 Program Management and Administration 300,000 200,000 Total Project Cost $4,580,000 $3,615,000 *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** 8 IV. INTERNATIONAL COORDINATION The U.S. Interagency Air Assessment Team currently working in the Gulf region has undertaken several first steps to coordinate planning with the governments of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain. To achieve the objectives of this plan, several further steps toward international coordination are necessary: Arrangements should be made with the government of Kuwait to complete the reactivation of the three air monitoring stations which were operating before the war. These stations will be critical to obtaining key observations near the source of the fires. The British Meteorological Office is currently conducting long-range sampling of the fire plume by aircraft. Coordination of data exchange and research plans between programs should be arranged through WMO. WMO should also be requested to arrange for collaboration of modeling efforts with Canadian and British scientists who work on similar programs. Collaboration is needed with Kuwaiti and Saudi health authorities to assess the effectiveness of an early warning system to limit or reduce air pollution-related mortality and morbidity, and to monitor trends in respiratory disease. The design and conduct of short-and long-term epidemiological and clinical studies must be integrated between Kuwaiti, WHO, and other countries providing assistance. To the extent feasible, and, when requested, U.S. agencies should work with multinational organizations to rebuild the public health infrastructure in Kuwait. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** 9 APPENDIX A AIR SAMPLING AND MONITORING The initial air sampling and monitoring program conducted by the U.S. Interagency Air Assessment Team in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia had the following objectives: 1. Determine if there is an acute health threat associated with the Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) and Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) gases being emitted from the burning oil wells. This objective was accomplished by collecting Real Time Measurements (i.e. instantaneous readings) using portable instruments for the following parameters: H2S, SO2, oxygen, and total particulate. These measurements were collected at 13 locations in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, U.S. Embassies in Kuwait and Riyadh, MEPA Dhahran, at five oil well fields, and at various locations near the oil fields in Kuwait. The results from the March 13-20 monitoring are summarized in Table 2. The highest readings were recorded from measurements taken in the smoke plumes in the oil fields. The results from this monitoring did not indicate an acute health threat. However, if conditions change, (i.e., fires are extinguished without capping, allowing high levels of gases) an acute threat near the wells may occur. The highest levels observed were: particulate 5.4 mg/m3, VOCs 2.5 ppm (adjacent to large pools of oil), H2S 42 ppb, and SO2 2 ppm. It should be noted that the detection limit for the SO2 monitor is 1-2 ppm. A different SO2 monitor with a detection limit 0.1 ppm did not indicate SO2. Also, the field personnel were unable to detect any sulfur odors at any of the locations. Therefore, the SO2 levels of 1-2 ppm should be used with caution. The only elevated levels observed in the monitoring conducted in the population areas were for particulates. A reading of 480 ug/m³ was obtained at MEPA in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. Based on field observation this reading was probably a combination of smoke from the fires and sand. Baseline particulate levels due to blowing sand in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait range from 200-3000 ug/m³. Further sampling and monitoring occurred from 3/24 - 3/27. These results are also attached. The results from this monitoring are similar the previous monitoring results. In general, the particulate concentrations at ground level in the oil fields were lower than in the downwind areas outside the fields, except when in the direct path of a ground level plume. The downwind locations most heavily affected vary, depending on wind speed, temperature, humidity, and other diurnal factors. The real time particulate readings during this phase are 15 and 20 minute averages. The highest reading occurred at the Ahmadi Hospital, with a 20 minute average reading of 0.935 mg/m³ with a single highest reading of 1.16 mg/m³. Other successive 20 minute averages taken at this location display the variation in particulate levels at the same location, as conditions such as wind direction change. 2. The second objective was to identify and quantify the gaseous and particulate byproducts that are associated with the burning oil wells. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** A-1 This objective has partially been accomplished. Samples from 10 locations have been analyzed by ERT's laboratory in the U.S. The air samples were collected for the following parameters at all locations: volatile organic (VOCs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs i.e naphthalene, benzo[a]pyrene), heavy metals, SO2, and inorganic acids (i.e. sulfuric, nitric, etc.). A limited number of samples were collected for H2S, formaldehyde, CO, and total nuisance dust. For specific findings relevant to these samples see the section entitled "Air Sampling Results." 3. The third objective was to determine if the materials associated with the fire were effecting areas where American citizens were located. This objective will partially be accomplished by reviewing the data from the samples taken at MEPA Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, U.S. Embassies in Kuwait and Riyadh, Camp Freedom Kuwait, and Port Shuaybah, Kuwait, and reviewing the air monitoring data being collected by MEPA and ARAMCO in Saudi Arabia air monitoring stations and sulfur dioxide data taken at temporary hospital locations in Kuwait City. In order to complete this objective in a sound scientific manner, sampling for PM₁₀ particulate (i.e. particulate less than 10 microns in size), which are the respirable particulate, and samples from the plume above ground level should be taken. Also, the air monitoring network proposed by the U.S. Interagency Air Assessment Team should be implemented. AIR SAMPLING RESULTS: The results from the air samples collected for sulfur dioxide, volatile organics, and inorganic acids from 3/13 3/20 in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia confirmed the real time measurements and sampling and analysis performed by the Kuwaitis and the Saudis. These results confirmed the conclusion of the U.S. Interagency Air Assessment Team that the primary hazards from the oil well fire is with the particulate matter. The highest level of sulfur dioxide (0.68 ppm) was detected in the smoke plume of the Burgan Oil Field. This level is above the EPA 24 hour (0.14 ppm) and 3 hour (0.5 ppm) limit. None of the sulfur dioxide samples collected in populated areas exceeded the EPA air quality limits. The organic vapor analysis showed that compounds associated with petroleum (i.e. benzene, toluene, and aliphatic hydrocarbons such as n-heptane (n-C7)) were detected. The highest levels (i.e. 10-20 ppb level) were detected in the smoke plume in the oil fields and a grab (SUMMA) sample collected at ground level near a pool of oil in the Sabiriyah well field. The inorganic acid analysis showed low ppb levels for both sulfuric and nitric acid. Based on this limited data, the sulfur dioxide and nitrous oxide that may be byproducts from the burning of the oil are not being formed in large amounts. The results from the particulate analysis for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heavy metals showed very low levels of both parameters in the samples collected in the populated areas and in the oil fields. The only metals detected were those associated with materials found in the sand particles (i.e. sodium, aluminum, magnesium, etc.). Based on these limited number of samples, the major hazard associated with the oil well fires seems to be the particulate matter being emitted. The monitoring and sampling program discussed in the Air Monitoring Strategy Plan should help further define the hazards associated with the particulates. The complete results from the sampling are summarized in the attached exhibits. Only the compounds detected are listed. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** A-2 PARAMETERS: The air samples collected at the oil well fields, Camp Freedom, MEPA Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, and U.S. Embassies in Kuwait and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia were analyzed for the following parameters: PAHs: Naphthalene,2-Methylnaphthalene,1-Methynapthlalene,Bipheny,2,6-Dimethylnaphthalene, Acenaphthylene, Acenapthene, Dibenzofuran, Fluorene, Phenanthrene, Anthracene, Carbazole, Fluoranthene, Pyrene, Benzo[a]anthracene, Chrysene, Benzo[b]fluoranthene, Benzo[k]flouranthene, Benzo[e]pyrene, Benzo[a]pyrene, Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene, Dibenzo[a,h]anthracene, Benzo[g,h,i]perylene. Inorganic Acids: Hydrochloric, Phosphoric, Sulfuric, Nitric, Hydrofluoric. Metals: Platinum, Titanium, Molybdenum, Zirconium, Silver, Aluminum, Beryllium, Cadmium, Calcium, Chromium, Cobalt, Copper, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese, Sodium, Nickel, Lead, Tin, Vanadium, Zinc. Volatile organics: 1,1,1-Trichloroethane, Cyclohexane, Carbon Tetrachloride, Benzene, Cyclohexene, n-Heptane (n-C7), 1,2-Dichlorpropane, Trichloroethane, 1,4-Dioxane, Methylcyclohexane, Methylisobutylketone, Toluene, n-Octane (n-C8), Tetrachloroethane, Chlorobenzene, Ethylbenzene, para-Xylene, Bromoform, Styrene, o-Xylene, n-Nonene, n-Nonane (n-C9), 1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane, Cumene, Mesitylene, Alpha-methylstyrene, 1,3-Dichlorobenzene, 1,4-Dichlorobenzene, 1,2-Dichlorobenzene, Benzyl Chloride, alpha-Terpine, D-Limonene, 4-tert-Butyltoluene, 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene, Naphthalene, 4-Phenylcyclohexene, n-Decane (n-C10), n-Decene, n-Undecene, n-Undecane (n-C11), n-Nonanal, n-Dodecane (n-C12), n-Tridecane (n-C13), n-Tetradecane (n-C14), n-Pentane (n-C15), n-Hexadecane (n-C16). Others: Formaldehyde and Sulfur Dioxide. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** A-3 EXHIBT 1: Air Sampling Results U.S. EMBASSY, KUWAIT Results for 3/16 PAHs: none detected detection limit: 2 - 4.6 ppb Sulfur Dioxide: none detected detection limit: 0.04 mg/m3 Inorganic Acids: none detected detection limit: 1 - - 6 ppb VOCs: Benzene 0.4 ppb, n-Heptane 0.13 ppb, Toluene 0.61 ppb, Ethylbenzene 0.1 ppb, para-Xylene 0.29 ppb, o-Xylene 0.12 ppb. Metals: Na < 1.0 ug/m3, Mg 2 ug/m3, Fe 2 ug/m3, Ca 8 ug/m3, AI 2 ug/m3. Results for 3/17 PAHs: Naphthalene 0.31 ppb Sulfur Dioxide: < 0.02 mg/m3 Inorganic Acids: HCI 3.0 ppb, H2SO4 1.0 ppb, HNO3 2.0 ppb VOCs: Cyclohexane 1.31 ppb, Benzene 4.0 ppb, n-Heptane 6.0 ppb, TCE 0.7 ppb, Methylcyclohexane 2.0 ppb, Toluene 7.7 ppb, n-Octane 3.0 ppb, Ethylbenzene 1.7 ppb, p-Xylene 5.4 ppb, Styrene 0.4 ppb, o-Xylene 2.4 ppb, n-Nonane 1.9 ppb, Cumene 0.2 ppb, Mesitylene 0.6 ppb, D-Limonene 0.1 ppb, n-Decane 1.5 ppb, n-Undecane 1.0 ppb, n-C12 0.7 ppb, n-C13 0.4 ppb. Metals: Na 10 ug/m3, Mg 2 ug/m3, Fe 3 ug/m3, Ca 10 ug/m3, AI 2 ug/m3. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** A-4 EXHIBT 1: Air Sampling Results U.S. EMBASSY, KUWAIT, continued Results for 3/18 PAHs: Naphthalene 0.16 ppb Sulfur Dioxide: < 0.05 mg/m3 Inorganic Acids: HCI 6 ppb, HNO3 2 ppb, H2SO4 1.0 ppb. VOCs: Cyclohexane 1.2 ppb, Benzene 5.2 ppb, n-C7 8.1 ppb, Methylcyclohexane 3.0 ppb, Toluene 14.6 ppb, n-C8 4.7 ppb, Ethylbenzene 3.2 ppb, p-Xylene 9.3 ppb, o-Xylene 4.7 ppb, n-C9 2.7 ppb, Cumene 0.3 ppb, Mesitylene 1.3 ppb, Naphthalene 0.18 ppb, n-C10 1.7 ppb, n-C11 1.0 ppb, n-C12 0.7 ppb, n-C13 0.3 ppb. Metals: Na 5 ug/m3, Mg 1 ug/m3, Fe 1 ug/m3, Ca 7 ug/m3, AI 1 ug/m3. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** A-5 EXHIBT 1: Air Sampling Results CAMP FREEDOM Results For 3/17 PAHs: Naphthalene 0.09 ppb, 2-Methyinaphthalene 0.06 ppb, 1-Methylnaphthalene 0.04 ppb. Sulfur Dioxide: 0.12 mg/m3 0.045 ppm Inorganic Acids: HCI 16 ppb, HF 23 ppb, H2SO4 31 ppb VOCs: Cyclohexane 7 ppb, Benzene 4.6 ppb, n-C7 25.6 ppb, Methylcyclohexane 9.5 ppb, Toluene 13 ppb, n-C8 18 ppb, Ethylbenzene 2.7 ppb, p-Xylene 8 ppb, o-Xylene 4.5 ppb, n-C9 10.9 ppb, Cumene 0.5 ppb, Mesitylene 1 ppb, Naphthalene 0.18 ppb, n-C10 6.3 ppb, n-C11 4.1 ppb, n-C12 2.3 ppb, n-C13 0.9 ppb, n-C14 0.5 ppb. These levels may also include emissions from vehicles in the area. Metals: No Data. Results for 3/18 PAHs: Naphthalene 0.28 ppb Sulfur Dioxide: <0.04 mg/m3, < 0.015 ppm Inorganic Acids: HNO3 4.0 ppb, H2SO4 4 ppb. VOCs: Cyclohexane 2.8 ppb, Benzene 6.9 ppb, n-C7 9.7 ppb, Methylcyclohexane 3.9 ppb, Toluene 16 ppb, n-C8 5.4 ppb, Ethylbenzene 3.1 ppb, p-Xylene 9.5 ppb, Styrene 0.3 ppb, o-Xylene 4.5 ppb, n-C9 3 ppb, Cumene 0.3 ppb, Mesitylene 1.1 ppb, n-C10 1.5 ppb, n-C11 0.8 ppb, n-C14 0.2 ppb. Metals: AI 2 ug/m3, Ca 8 ug/m3, Fe 2 ug/m3, Mg 2 ug/m3, Na 3 ug/m3. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** A-6 EXHIBT 1: Air Sampling Results MEPA DHAHRAN, SAUDI ARABIA Results For 3/13 PAHs: none detected Sulfur Dioxide: <0.1 mg/m3, <0.037 ppm Inorganic Acids: H2SO4 5 ppb. VOCs: Benzene 0.3 ppb, Cyclohexane 0.1 ppb, Toluene 0.5 ppb, Ethylbenzene 0.1 ppb, p-Xylene 0.2 ppb, o-Xylene 0.1 ppb, Mesitylene 0.04 ppb. Metals: AI 2 ug/m3, Ca 5 ug/m3, Fe 2 ug/m3, Mg 2 ug/m3, Na 1 ug/m3. Results For 3/14 PAHs: none detected Sulfur Dioxide: <0.08 mg/m3, < 30 ppb. Inorganic Acids: HNO3 2 ppb, H2SO4 6 ppb. VOCs: Cyclohexane 0.2 ppb, Benzene 0.5 ppb, n-C7 0.8 ppb, Methylcyclohexane 0.3 ppb, Toluene 0.7 ppb, n-C8 0.4 ppb, Ethylbenzene 0.1 ppb, p-Xylene 0.3 ppb, o-Xylene 0.1 ppb, n-C9 0.3 ppb. Metals: AI 3 ug/m3, Ca 14 ug/m3, Fe 3 ug/m3, Mg 4 ug/m3, na 8 ug/m3. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** A-7 EXHIBT 1: Air Sampling Results U.S. EMBASSY RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA Results For 3/28 PAHs: none detected Sulfur Dioxide: < 0.08 mg/m3, < 30 ppb Inorganic Acids: NO3 3 ppb, H2SO4 < 2 ppb. VOCs: Benzene 0.3 ppb, Toluene 0.6 ppb, Ethylbenzene 1.0 ppb, p-Xylene 0.3 ppb. Metals: AI 2 ug/m3, Ca 4 ug/m3, Fe 1 ug/m3. PORT SHUAYBAH Results For 3/17 PAHs: no data Sulfur Dioxide: < 0.05 mg/m3, , 19 ppb Inorganic Acids: H2SO4 19 ppb. VOCs: Benzene 4.2 ppb, n-C7 13 ppb, Methylcyclohexane 5.3 ppb, Toluene 15 ppb, n-C8 5.6 ppb, p-Xylene 6.9 ppb, Ethylbenzene 2.2 ppb, o-Xylene 2.9 ppb, n-C9 3.8 ppb, Cumene 0.2 ppb, n-C10 2.9 ppb, n-C11 1.9 ppb, n-C12 1.4 ppb, n-C13 0.8 ppb. Metals: Ca 4 ug/m3, Na 7 ug/m3. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** A-8 EXHIBT 1: Air Sampling Results AI MAQUA OIL FIELD Results for 3/15 PAHs: no data Sulfur Dioxide: <0.3 mg/m3, <0.1 ppm Inorganic Acids: no data VOCs: Cyclohexane 0.6 ppb, Benzene 1.8 ppb, n-C7 3.2 ppb, Methylcyclohexane 1.1 ppb, Toluene 2 ppb, Ethylbenzene 0.4 ppb, p-Xylene 1.4 ppb, o-Xylene 0.8 ppb, n-C9 2.8 ppb, Mestilylene 0.3 ppb, n-C10 3.3 ppb, n-C11 3.5 ppb, n-C12 3.3 ppb, n-C13 1.8 ppb, n-C16 1.1 ppb. Metals: AI 6 ug/m3, Ca 6 ug/m3, Fe 6 ug/m3. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** A-9 EXHIBT 1: Air Sampling Results AI AHMADI OIL FIELD Results For 3/16 PAHs: none detected Sulfur Dioxide: 0.45 mg/m3, 0.17 ppm Inorganic Acids: H2SO4 27 ppb, HNO3 10 ppb, HCI 9 ppb. VOCs: Cyclohexane 0.4 ppb, Benzene 3.9 ppb, n-C7 2.5 ppb, Methylcyclohexane 1 ppb, Toluene 2 ppb, n-C8 2.3 ppb, Ethylbenzene 0.5 ppb, p-Xylene 1.5 ppb, o-Xylene 0.9 ppb, n-C9 2.9 ppb, Mesitylene 0.4 ppb, Naphthalene 0.5 ppb, n-C10 3.4 ppb, n-C11 3.8 ppb, n-C12 4 ppb, n-C13 2.9 ppb, n-C14 2.9 ppb, n-C15 2 ppb, n-C16 1.7 ppb. Metals: AI 8 ug/m3, Ca 50 ug/m3, Fe 20 ug/m3. Formaldehyde: 8 ppb. Hydrogen Sulfide: analysis not completed SUMMA Data: SO2 20 ppm; CO 1.9 ppm *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** A-10 EXHIBT 1: Air Sampling Results AI BURGAN OIL FIELD Results For 3/17 PAHs: none detected; detection limit 50 ppb Sulfur Dioxide: 1.8 mg/m3, 0.8 ppm Inorganic Acids: H2SO4 30 ppb, HNO3 32 ppb, HCI 15 ppb. VOCs: Benzene 8.7 ppb, n-C7 4.6 ppb, Methylcyclohexane 2.5 ppb, Toluene 4.31 ppb, n-C8 5.1 ppb, Ethylbenzene 1.3 ppb, p-Xylene 4.2 ppb, o-Xylene 2.4 ppb, n-C9 7.1 ppb, Naphthalene 1.6 ppb, n-C10 9.1 ppb, n-C11 10.4 ppb, n-C12 11.3 ppb, n-C13 7.8 ppb, n-C14 7.4 ppb, n-C15 5.4 ppb, n-C16 4.6 ppb. Metals: AI 20 ug/m3, Ca 120 ug/m3, Fe 20 ug/m3, Mg 30 ug/m3. Formaldehyde: 20 ppb; SUMMA Data: SO2 0.23 ppm, CO 1.6 ppm, H2S none detected (0.1 ppm detection limit.) *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** A-11 EXHIBT 1: Air Sampling Results AI WAFRA OIL FIELD Results for 3/19 PAHs: no data Sulfur Dioxide: none detected 0.3 mg/m3, 0.11 ppm. Inorganic Acids: none detected 10 ppb detection limit VOCs: Benzene 2.3 ppb, n-C7 0.6 ppb, Methylcyclohexane 1.6 ppb, Ethylbenzene 0.3 ppb, o-Xylene 0.4 ppb, Mesitylene 0.4 ppb Metals: no data Hydrogen Sulfide: awaiting results. SABIRIYAH OIL FIELD Results For 3/17 SUMMA DATA: Ground Level Sample: H2S none detected (0.1 ppm); SO2 13 ppm; CO 1.1 ppm; NO and NO2 none detected VOCs: Benzene 9.8 ppb, Toluene 8.7 ppb, Ethylbenzene 10 ppb, m&p-Xylene 27.8 ppb o-Xylene 24 ppb, m-Ethyltoluene 15.8 ppb, n-C6 83 ppb, n-C7 60 ppb, n-C8 91 ppb, n-C9 91 ppb, n-C10 89 ppb, n-C11 65 ppb. 3000 ft Sample: H2S none detected; SO2 0.08 ppm, CO none detected; NO and NO2 none detected 0.5 ppm. 1000 ft Sample: H2S, SO2, CO, NO, and NO2 none detected. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** A-12 Table 1 Kuwait Oil Well Fires Real Time Monitoring March 13-20, 1991 Site, Date, Time Total Sulfur Hydrogen Volatile Particulate Dioxide Sulfide Organics mg/m³ ppm ppm ppm 1) MEPA Faciltiy, Dhahran, SA .170 0.0 0.0 0.0 3/13 1100 hrs MEPA Facility .048 0.0 0.0 0.0 3/14 1300 hrs 2) AI Dhuba .420 0.0 0.0 0.0 3/15 1430 hrs 3) Umn AI Haiman .320 0.0 0.0 0.0 3/15 1500 hrs 4) Mina Abdulla .250 0.0 0.01 0.6 3/15 1530 hrs 5) Near AI Maqwa Oil Field 3/15 .010 0.0 0.024 0.8 1630 hrs 6) In AI Maqwa Well Plume 5.4 0.0 0.006 0.8 3/15 1700 hrs 7) U.S. Embassy .01 0.0 0.001 0.0 3/06 0900 hrs U.S. Embassy .055 1.0 0.005 0.2 3/18 1230 hrs 8) In AI Ahmadi Well Plume --- 0.0 0.032 0.0 3/16 1230 hrs In AI Ahmadi Oil Field .120 1.0 0.009 0.0 3/16 1300 hrs 9) In AI Burgan Well Plume 1.0 0.015 0.0 - 3/17 1100 hrs 10) In Sabiriyan Well Plume, --- 1.0 0.042 2.5 Pooled Oil 3/18 1530 hrs 11) In AI Wafra Well Plume .050 2.0 0.015 0.0 3/19 1200 hrs 12) Freedom City --- --- --- --- 13) U.S. Embassy Riyadh, SA .032 0.0 0.0 0.0 3/20 1300 hrs *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** A-13 Table 2 Kuwait Oil Well Fires Real Time Monitoring March 24-27, 1991 Site, Date, Time Total Sulfur Hydrogen Volatile Particulate Dioxide Sulfide Organics mg/m³ ppm ppm ppm 1) AI Safer Motorway and .825 2.0 0.0 0.3 Wafra Road (15 min. 3/24 1440 hrs avg.) 2) AI Ahmadi Gathering .359 0.0 0.0 0.0 Center #22 (15 min. 3/24 1530 hrs avg.) 3) AI Ahmadi Hospital .222 0.0 0.0 0.0 3/24 1530 hrs (32 min. avg.) 4) 1 mi. NW of Station .256 0.0 0.0 0.0 2 in Ahmadi Oil Field (10 min. 3/24 1730 hrs avg.) 5) AI Maga Oil Field, .034 1.0 0.0 0.6 .5 mi south of 7th (17 min. Ring Road near oil pool avg.) 3/25 1400 hrs 6) AI Ahmadi Oil field .561 0.0 0.003 0.6 (same as Station 4) (13 min. 3/25 1500 hrs avg.) 7) AI Ahmadi Hospital .295 0.0 0.0 0.0 (same as Station 3) (15 min. 3/25 1545 hrs avg. 8) AI Safer and Wafra .065 0.0 0.002 0.0 Road (16 min. 3/25 1615 hrs avg.) 9) AI Ahmadi Hospital .935 0.0 0.0 0.2 (same as Station 3 and 7) (20 min. 3/27 1020 hrs avg.) 10) AI Ahmadi Hospital .457 --- --- --- (same as Stations 3, 7, (20 min. and 9) avg.) 3/27 1040 hrs 11) AI Ahmadi Hospital .457 --- --- --- (same as Stations 3, 7, 9, (20 min. and 10) avg.) 3/27 1100 hrs 12) Shuaiba Port .468 0.0 0.0 0.0 3/27 1215 hrs (15 min. avg.) *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** A-14 Site, Date, Time Total Sulfur Hydrogen Volatile Particulate Dioxide Sulfide Organics mg/m³ ppm ppm ppm 13) AI Safer Motorway and .119 0.0 0.0 0.0 Wafra Road (12 min. 3/27 1300 hrs avg.) 14) 16 Kilo-meters SE of AI .257 0.0 0.0 0.0 Safer and Wafra Roads (12 min. 3/27 1330 hrs avg.) 15) 27 Kilo-meters SE of AI .227 --- --- --- Safer and Wafra Roads (15 min. 3/27 1350 hrs avg.) 16) 5 Kilometers South of .072 --- --- --- Khafji, Saudi Arabia (14 min. 3/27 1510 hrs avg.) *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** A-15 Table 3 Sulfur Dioxide Bubbler Measurements (Acidimetric Method) Temporary Hospital Locations in Kuwait City March 13-24 Hospital Date Concentration (ug/m³) Adan 3/14/91 40.31 3/17/91 43.88 3/18/91 39.34 3/19/91 26.18 3/20/91 27.68 3/23/91 28.16 3/24/91 15.99 Mubarek AI Kabeer 3/13/91 193.66 3/18/91 56.48 3/19/91 58.11 3/20/91 42.34 3/23/91 43.43 3/24/91 23.72 AI Farwaniya 3/13/91 81.32 3/16/91 19.21 3/17/91 29.56 3/18/91 134.81 3/19/91 218.65 3/20/91 27.57 3/23/91 26.66 3/24/91 10.54 AI Jahra 3/16/91 32.03 3/18/91 66.59 3/19/91 32.54 3/23/91 13.92 3/24/91 9.90 *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** A-16 U.S. Air Assessment Team Real-Time Sampling Locations, March 24-27 IRAQ 30°N Shatt al-Arab IRAN KUWAIT I AI Safer & Wafra Roads (3 measurements taken) 2 AI Ahmadi Gathering Center #22 3 Hospital (5 measurements taken) Mina 24 Ahmadi Oil Field (2 measurements taken) 29° 3 AI Maqwa Oil Field I 4 Shuaiba Port Ras Al-Quilayah 5 16 Km SE of AI Safer & Wafra Roads 5 6 Ras Al-Zawr 6 27 Km SE of AI Safer & Wafra Roads 7 5 Km S of Khafji, Saudi Arabia Khafji SAUDI 7 50 km 28° Saffaniya ARABIA Karan I. H 48° 49° 50° 51°E APPENDIX B PROPOSED HEALTH PLAN I. HEALTH IMPACT OF THE KUWAIT OIL WELL FIRES A. Activities and Results The activities of the health component have been divided into two regions: Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. There are two goals behind these activities: 1. To determine through interviews with responsible health professionals whether there are or have been any health occurrences that might be associated with the oil smoke plume. 2. To ascertain the health care and toxicology assets of each region that could be applied to health surveillance, epidemiology, and clinical field trials. To address these objectives, medical records were reviewed (when available) and meetings were held with public health officials, DOD health representatives, and US embassy staff. Where possible, results from health data collection were correlated with preliminary real-time air monitoring data. Saudi Arabia Activities in Saudi Arabia have included meetings with: CDC Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP); Ministry of Health; Deputy Chief of Mission, US Embassy, Riyadh; US Consul General to Dhahran; Meteorological and Environmental Protection Agency (MEPA); Saudi Arabian Oil Company (Saudi ARAMCO); King Fahd University for Petroleum and Mining, Research Institute (KFUPM); Physicians of the MC USN; General Director of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Saudi Ministry of Health; Director of Qataif Regional Primary Care Centers; Sixty physicians from Eastern Province. Kuwait Activities in Kuwait have included meetings with: Minister of Public Health; Head of Environmental Health Laboratory; Head of Allergy Center; Pulmonary and Casualty Ward physicians at Mubarak Hospital; Review of outpatient records for March 2 and March 12 at Mubarak Hospital; *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** B-1 Ambassador Gnehm and staff; Embassy Medical Services Officer; Congressional delegation; The Director and staff of the Kuwait Allergy Center Epidemiologist in the Ministry of Health; Department of Preventive Medicine; Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health in the Ministry of Public Health; Scientists from the University of Kuwait; Director and Assistant Director of the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research; The Secretary General of the Kuwait Institute for Medical Specialization; Head of Preventive Medicine, Al-Ahmadi Hospital US and UK Military physicians; Ambassador Gnehm and staff. Regional - WHO Meeting with WHO representative in Kuwait. Military Review of infirmary records of troops stationed in Kuwait City; Interviews with Kuwaiti soldiers stationed in the oil fields; Meeting with US Central Command (CENTCOM) medical personnel in Riyadh. Oil Workers Not addressed to date. B. Specific issues addressed in these meetings include: 1. Knowledge (preferably first hand) of any apparent increases in respiratory complaints resulting from the oil smoke plume. 2. Direct examination (where possible) of recent medical charts that could help in ascertaining the presence of any ongoing respiratory problems associated with the oil smoke plume. 3. The accessibility of health care records (current or past) that could be utilized in health surveillance and epidemiology. 4. The existence of facilities, such as pulmonary function labs, that could be used in any clinical field studies involving specific health endpoints. 5. Prevalence of asthma in the Gulf area and its putative etiology, as well as the incidence of asthma-like symptoms in the population. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** B-2 6. Prevalence of disease (such as fibrosis) related to the high background sand particulate concentrations. 7. The role of different governmental and academic institutions in executing health monitoring and epidemiology. 8. Multiple routes of exposure to toxicants, i.e. inhalation of smoke, dermal absorption of surface deposited smoke and oil, and ingestion of oil and oil byproducts through contamination of groundwater and Gulf water. 9. Public response within Kuwait to the current situation. 10. The existence of efforts that have been initiated in the areas of health surveillance and epidemiology. II. FINDINGS 1. Based on initial preliminary results of real-time air monitoring for hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) (see monitoring results), and the current and likely meteorological conditions in Kuwait and the Gulf region, an acute health hazard does not now appear likely to be posed by the H2S and SO2 fires for the general population. Assuming that the ground-based data obtained by the monitoring group in Kuwait is representative of exposures and meteorological trends for this region, it is highly unlikely that any short-term increases in mortality will occur in Kuwait City due to air pollution. Two factors mitigate against the occurrence of any situation similar to that in London in the 1950's or the Mousse Valley in the 1930's: 1) the absence of weather conditions that lead to significant inversions or fogs, and 2) the flat topography which prevents pollutant buildups such as those that often occur in valleys and areas surrounded by mountains. However, under less benign meteorological conditions than those that currently exist (e.g., in the case of poor air mixing at ground level or in the event of plume touchdown) shorter-term upward excursions of air pollutants may pose increased risk of acute health effects. Because of the extreme toxicity associated with H2S exposure, oil field workers should take appropriate precautions at all times. 2. High risk populations such as asthmatics and individuals with underlying respiratory conditions appear to be at greatest risk of developing adverse effects from the current pollution situation. Since the fires began in late February, physicians have noted that asthmatics have experienced more episodes of wheezing, and episodes that are less responsive to usual medication regimens. Observations based on limited reports raises concerns about the potential effects on other sensitive populations such as children, the elderly, individuals with cardiac disease, and others. 3. A health survey of Marines is currently underway. It is being conducted by Capt. Stephen Wignal and Cmdr. Mary Anderson of the USN stationed in Jubayal, Saudi Arabia. Three battalions (cohorts) of 900 Marine each is participating in the survey. The first cohort entered Kuwait at the start of ground fighting and is currently in Kuwait. The second cohort entered Kuwait at the start of ground fighting and was redeployed to Jubayal at the cessation of ground fighting. The third cohort has never entered Kuwait and is stationed at a distance from the oil smoke. The survey questionnaire was reviewed by Drs. Gerrity and Seligman. Suggestions and modifications were made. The beginning of this survey *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** B-3 was observed by Dr. Seligman in Jubail. Results should be available within a matter of weeks. Dr. Stephen Wignal will be in the U.S. on April 3 and might, if desired, be available for a meeting to discuss this survey. Sean Drysdale, a preventive medicine physician responsible for the 1st Armored Division of the U.K. is attempting to undertake surveillance of his troops and may connect with the USN effort in Jubayal. 4. In discussions with Drs. Salek Al-Kandar and Ali Al-Saif of the Kuwait Ministry of Public Health it became apparent that Kuwait had spent the past 30 years building its communicable disease epidemiology program with the goal of reducing communicable diseases. Having achieved this goal prior to August 2, 1990, there were initial efforts at expanding into non-communicable diseases including environmentally related diseases. Since August 2, 1990 this initial effort was completely set back. There are few if any professionals within Kuwait who have training in environmental epidemiology. Despite this, some initial efforts are underway. Dr. Diaa Al-Din'Mohamed, the Director of the Kuwait Allergy Center, has begun the effort to collect incidence reports of asthma from Kuwait health care facilities and attempt to compare this data with historical data. Considering the shortage of manpower at the Center (one technician and two physicians compared with a pre-war staff of 14 physicians and about the same number of technicians) this is likely to be an arduous process. The Allergy Center has 4 Jaeger Pulmoscreen spirometry systems and a Morgan body box that could be used for a pulmonary function epidemiology study. Other types of laboratory equipment for doing biochemistry or analytic chemistry are very limited. Dr. Walid Doud, the Director of Preventive Medicine at Kuwait's Al-Ahmadi Hospital, has begun a longitudinal study of approximately 100 people in the surrounding community. This population will include asthmatics and patients with COPD as well as healthy subjects. Pulmonary function (spirometry and peak flow measurements) will be made. There are two Vitalographs at the hospital for this purpose. The number of subjects participating in this study is limited by the pulmonary function and personnel resources at the hospital. Additionally, they have some limited air monitoring capability at the hospital. a. Outside of a few laboratories, such as the air monitoring stations within the purview of the Kuwait Environmental Health Monitoring Laboratory, the Kuwait Ministry of Public Health, the scientific infrastructure of Kuwait has been virtually dismantled. Major pieces of analytical equipment in chemistry laboratories, biochemistry laboratories, pathology laboratories, etc. have been stolen or destroyed. These laboratories include those at the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research and the University of Kuwait. The Chest Hospital, however, still is in possession of its pulmonary function testing equipment. b. In a meeting with Dr. Al-Jefri (General Director of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Saudi Ministry of Health) he indicated a strong desire to involve the CDC Field Epidemiology Training Program in establishing a surveillance effort in the Eastern province for asthma. He would like a plan of action regarding both surveillance efforts, and epidemiologic and clinical studies to be reviewed by himself and the General Director for Environmental Health. In a meeting with Dr. Khazi Al-Qatari (Director of Qataif Regional Primary Care Centers) it was learned that there is currently in place a surveillance system for HTN, diabetes, sickle cell/G6PD, and asthma (and communicable diseases). The physicians are very eager to get involved in clinical studies and in utilizing their current surveillance efforts for tracking potential health effects. They were very eager to receive the air monitoring results to guide them in making decisions on health studies. Dr. Al-Qatari and others would like to meet with either myself or the returning health team to discuss further plans. He is also concerned about the air pollution on the 20% of the population that have sickle cell, *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** B-4 thalassemia, and other hemoglobinopathies. He also stressed the need to get support from the Ministry of Health and from the Regional Headquarters in Damman. 5. The Kuwait Ministry of Public Health has articulated enthusiastic willingness to participate in a program (such as the CDC Field Epidemiology Training Program) that would simultaneously train physicians in epidemiology (with emphasis on environmental epidemiology) and conduct field epidemiology studies. 6. In addition to having the highest particulate concentrations in the world, the Gulf area also has the highest prevalence of asthma and other allergic respiratory disorders. It is presently felt that such a high prevalence is due to a combination of pollen and sand. The pollen of the prosopis tree (related to the mesquite tree) appears to be a particular problem. This tree is not indigenous to the area but was imported from Iran. Furthermore, there appears to be no evidence that the high sand particulate concentrations lead to an increase in lung fibrosis in the population. 7. Concern among the scientific community, as expressed by some of its leaders, has arisen over health risks from routes of exposure other than inhalation. Risk from the ingestion of oil products that have seeped into the ground water appears to be particularly high. Additionally the deposition of oily deposits on surface water supplies (including the Gulf) has given rise to concern. One scenario that had been proposed, but may or may not be a problem, is the interaction of oil contaminated Gulf water with the chlorination process at the desalination plants. It is feared that since the chlorination is done at high temperatures, various halogenated hydrocarbons that may be carcinogenic, could be formed and subsequently ingested. 8. There were expressions of concern for the apparent growing fear within the public of the effects of the oil well fires. There is a desire for factual information that can be disseminated to the public coupled to information about precautions that could be taken to minimize exposure and risk. 9. Parties such as the Ministry of Public Health, KISR, and Kuwait University, have said funding for surveillance, epidemiology, and research is not a problem (i.e. Kuwait is willing to foot the bill). However, it was also said that there are political problems in convincing the ruling authorities that these issues should receive high priority in spending. It was thought that a determination by an international scientific body such as WHO, that studies of the health impacts of the oil smoke problem should receive high priority, would provide the necessary impetus. Discussions with Ambassador Gnehm confirm this observation. An umbrella MOU has been signed between the US and Kuwait that would facilitate funding by Kuwait of US research efforts. Subsequent (more simple) MOU's would have to negotiated by individual USG agencies. Given the support of the ruling authorities, financial support of Kuwait for health impact studies could be obtained. 10. The observation in the first Interim Report that biological samples from cadavers cannot be obtained apparently applies only to Saudi Arabia. Post mortems are legally done in Kuwait. However it was determined that in most cases it is difficult to convince families to agree. The exception is when a death occurs in hospital due to unknown causes. Then a post- mortem is legally required. 11. Many of the parties that would be involved in surveillance and epidemiology have been identified in both Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. Many of the problems and confounders that *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** B-5 would impact on study designs have been identified. A clearly defined strategy of approach to the health impact problems on a large scale has yet to be developed. 12. On March 24, 1991 the US Air Team in Kuwait experience what was described by people in Kuwait as the worst conditions seen thus far. One qualitative observation worth noting, that is better elucidated by the monitoring team, is that the conditions appeared to be of the nature of an inversion. The relative humidity was high and the air was very still away from the oil fields. Within the oil fields there was a significant breeze probably due the inflow of air feeding the individual fires. IV. PROBLEMS/ISSUES Depopulation of Kuwait has left hospitals and clinics short-staffed. Other priorities currently dominate consideration such as electricity, water, adequate medicine, restoration of basic equipment, getting the telephones working. Support and clerical staff in the hospitals and clinics have left the country, remaining staff feel overworked. Large shifts in population over the next months with the repopulation of Kuwait will make it difficult to accurately determine denominators for disease rates. Similarly, recommendations encouraging asthmatics and other high risk individuals to stay out of Kuwait is likely to make an accurate assessment of the magnitude of the health problem difficult. The presence of high backgrounds of particles in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia pose two problems: 1.) the separation of effects of the oil smoke plume from those of the sand; and 2) the role, if any, that sand may play in increasing susceptibility to the health effects of the oil smoke plume. Given the unprecedented nature of the current circumstances and that the exposures under consideration may only last two years, it is difficult using current scientific knowledge to project with certainty chronic effects. Past epidemiological studies have focussed primarily on longer term exposures. Cancer risks can be prorated for shorter exposure times based on current EPA methodologies. There is some evidence that non-cancer pulmonary effects such as loss of lung function, and development of asthma, can occur as a result of short-term exposures especially if affected individuals have pre-existing lung disease or might be compromised by poor nutrition. Ozone and acid aerosols should receive special attention since they may not be formed in the immediate vicinity of the oil smoke plume, but be later formed and transported many miles downwind. In the US high ozone concentrations generally occur 20-40 miles downwind of major population centers. There is scientific evidence for synergism between ozone and other pollutants with respect to health effects. The role of current pharmacotherapy in the treatment of asthma could significantly reduce any possible morbidity and mortality that might otherwise result from a serious high concentration episode in the unlikely event such were to occur. The use of biological samples from cadavers is prohibited and should not realistically be considered as an option for further study. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** B-6 V. RECOMMENDATIONS Medical surveillance, epidemiological studies, and clinical field studies examining specific health endpoints (see appendix) should be conducted primarily in Kuwait and in extreme Northeastern Saudi Arabia, and secondarily in regions of the Eastern Province further south to Dhahran, to quantitatively ascertain whether there are significant increases in morbidity and mortality, short-term and long-term, as a result of the oil smoke plume. Prospective or concurrent studies can be conducted examining more specific clinical and toxicological issues. Of utmost importance in any of these investigations is the need to link determinations of health effects, regardless of endpoint, with exposure monitoring data. The monitoring strategy being developed in parallel with this section addresses this requirement. From the health perspective the following sequence of actions are being recommended. The sequence of these actions represents an approach to addressing health issues related to the oil smoke plume. Some of the early actions have already been taken. 1. Link air monitoring system to public health response, particularly for high risk populations, including specific advice regarding courses of action to prevent health effects in high risk populations. 2. Collaborate with Kuwaiti and Saudi health authorities in the performance of surveillance to: a. assess the effectiveness of an early warning system to limit or reduce air pollution-related morbidity, b. to monitor trends in respiratory disease rates for the period of the oil fires and beyond. 3. Develop close collaboration between Kuwaiti, Saudi, WHO and DOD health officials and scientists from the CDC and EPA in the design and conduct of short- and long-term epidemiological and clinical studies of the health effects of the oil fires. 4. Collect plume samples for in-vitro and in-vivo toxicity testing and dose response assessment. 5. Assess more accurately the acute and chronic risk based on exposure data and in-vitro and in-vivo toxicity data. 6. Require completion of permanent service records for all active and reserve personnel that served in the KTO. Such records would be vital in the event that future questions are raised concerning the health impact of military service in Kuwait. 7. Initiate preventative measures for military personnel such as, but not limited to, the use of dust masks and limiting exercise on bad days. The potential health effects of the smoke should be a factor in considering redeployment and/or rotation of troops in the region. 8. Medical facilities in the affected areas should be aware of the potential for increased frequency of asthma attacks and should insure that adequate supplies of appropriate medications are on hand. 9. Revise and issue a health advisory for US personnel and governments in the region. 10. Give strong consideration to USPHS involvement directly or as part of a multinational WHO effort in rebuilding the public health infrastructure in Kuwait a) upon request of the Kuwaiti government, *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** B-7 and b) after stabilization of the political environment and restoration of vital services such as electricity, water, and telephones. 11. A meeting of relevant parties from the EPA, CDC, and NIEHS should be convened in Washington at the earliest time to discuss planning for studies of the health impacts of the oil well fires. Experts outside of the USG should also be present to provide input. 12. An expert(s) in groundwater, soil, and food contamination by oil should be brought into a future team to assess the impacts of the oil pooling and combustion product deposition on population exposure. The goal should be to ascertain whether or not there is a problem in these areas. 13. The establishment of a central coordinating "Ministry" dealing with the oil fire problem might be suggested to the government of Kuwait. This might facilitate overall coordination between all parties concerned. 14. Daily satellite photographs of the position of the smoke plume beginning with its inception should be obtained from NOAA. This would facilitate establishing roughly the exposure pattern over time. 15. Demographic information is needed for the country of Kuwait. Information prior to August 2, 1990 would help establish the major population centers. Current information will be difficult to obtain but should be sought after. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** B-8 APPENDIX C A REGIONAL GULF AIR MONITORING PLAN IN RESPONSE TO THE 1991 KUWAITI OIL FIELD FIRES I. INTRODUCTION Purpose of the Plan Team Membership Concerns and Questions - Short and Longer Term Basic Understandings II. BACKGROUND Nature of the Fires and Oil Field Locations Qualitative Meteorological Observations Preliminary Air Quality Information Health Issues and Concerns Data Bases and Information Management III. RECOMMENDATIONS Preliminary Findings and Conclusions to Date Phased Steps for Expanding the Network Measurement Parameters at each Site Health Monitoring Surveys IV. SUMMARY Preliminary Findings and Conclusions to Date Basic Network Requirements Urgency and Timing Phased Approach to Implementation Unresolved Issues ATTACHMENTS List of existing and proposed air monitoring sites Locations of existing and proposed air monitoring sites *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-1 APPENDIX C A REGIONAL GULF AIR MONITORING PLAN IN RESPONSE TO THE 1991 KUWAITI OIL FIELD FIRES 1. INTRODUCTION The U.S. Interagency Air Monitoring Team is working with the Saudi Arabian Meteorology and Environmental Protection Agency (MEPA) to develop an air monitoring plan for the Gulf region that will provide information to assess the impact of the [Kuwaiti] fires in Saudi Arabia. This plan is being discussed and developed with the King Faud University of Petroleum and Minerals in Dhahran, the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (CCG), and the Saudi Arabian Oil Company (ARAMCO). The plan is being developed at the request of Dr. Tawfiq, Vice President of the Saudi Arabian MEPA. Meetings have been held with officials from all of the above mentioned organizations. 1.1 Approach The Team is gathering information on the existing air monitoring networks in the region operated by MEPA, ARAMCO, Kuwait, Bahrain, and the Royal Commission of Jubayl and Yunbo. The spatial distribution of the existing network in the Region is being reviewed as to the location of sites, the air pollutants and meteorological variables that are monitored at each of these sites and the quality of existing data. That review is to determine if the existing network needs to be expanded in terms of the air pollutants and meteorological variables monitored and additional air monitoring stations to determine the impact from the oil fires. The capabilities of the existing agencies and governments to deal with a more complete network is also being investigated. 1.2 Objectives of Air Monitoring in the Gulf Region Air monitoring data is needed for the following reasons: a. To provide an Early Warning Health Advisory System for the Gulf Region to respond to the air pollution resulting from the Kuwaiti oil fires. The proposed Early Warning System could be based on an adaptation of the U.S. Air Quality Index, the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI), which can be modified to use Saudi air quality standards. The index would provide for health advisories to the affected populations so they can minimize their exposure to high pollution levels. b. To track the air pollution from the Kuwaiti oil field fires over time to asses the potential long term health and ecological effects. The air monitoring network proposal being developed is being coordinated with a parallel effort to develop a health monitoring information system. C. To collect samples of airborne particles to perform toxicity testing and dose response assessment utilizing in-vivo animal models. d. To facilitate evaluations of models which are use to predict the local and regional scale behavior of the oil field emissions. Data from the expanded GULF REGIONAL AIR MONITORING NETWORK of ambient air quality and meteorological data will be important for those evaluations. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-2 2. BACKGROUND 2.1 Preliminary Investigation of the Existing Monitoring Networks The air quality monitoring sites listed in Table 1 have been identified for each of the Gulf nations that could contribute monitoring information within the sphere of influence of airborne effluents from the Kuwait oil fires. Based upon our review of the existing networks, the principal pollutants which are missing are in the Saudi network and in the present Kuwaiti network are PM₁₀, which represents particulate matter with particles less than 10 microns in diameter, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and volatile organic compounds (VOC). With respect to PM₁₀, these are the particles which are most likely to penetrate deeply into the lung. It should be noted that Kuwait has collected particulate data using an Anderson Cascade Impactor, with limited size distributions below seven microns within a total suspended particulate sample. Because of the importance of this particular pollutant and the extensive particulate resulting from the oil fires, the Team is recommending that special efforts be initiated to gather PM₁₀ data and if possible to determine its constituents - trace metals and hydrocarbons. The PM₁₀ data collection effort should be supplemented with the collections of PAH samples and if possible, grab samples for VOC analysis. An ongoing effort is being conducted to examine the analytical laboratory support for air monitoring in Kuwait, MEPA, KFUPM, and Saudi ARAMCO. The Kuwaiti laboratory capability to analyze air and particulate samples has been left largely intact. As of March 27, 1991, two of the three continuous monitoring stations have been activated and are collecting data. The remaining site has its continuous sampling equipment however, like the analytical laboratory, is without electrical power. There is no projected date for power at these locations. The analytical laboratory has had experience with polyurathane foam (PUF) extractions for PAH measurements (PS-1 sampler) and has done pesticide extraction and analysis research. The most critical need for the laboratory is obviously power to provide the basis of future support to the sampling plan. Additionally training must be provided with documented procedures for these new sampling and analytical procedures, and lastly they are in need of a complete set of standards to support instrument calibrations for their existing continuous monitors and the new proposed technologies. Quality control and quality assurance samples and support for the network should be developed within the available laboratories but, should be supplemented from an external source. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-3 TABLE C-1. The Distribution of Air Pollutant and Meteorological Monitoring Sites by Gulf Nation. Nation Organization Number of Air and Met Sites SAUDI ARABIA MEPA 3 fixed sites - meteorology and air pollution at different locations of the same city 1 mobile site - meteorology and air pollution 1 fixed meteorology site Saudi ARAMCO 8 air quality sites with meteorology 6 additional meteorology sites Royal Comm. Cluster of Five Stations in for Jubayl Jubayl & Yunbo KUWAIT 3 sites with continuous monitors (2 with power, 1 without power). 4 sites with Anderson samplers, high vols. and dustfall buckets. (no power) 1 additional TSP site (no power) 6 additional dustfall sites 4 temporary S02 bubbler sites located at 4 hospitals (some power) BAHRAIN JIM: PLEASE FILL IN QATAR 3 mobile monitoring sites IRAN unknown IRAQ unknown *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-4 The analytical laboratory at King Faud U.P.M. has recently been provided the above procedures to permit a self assessment of their equipment availability to conduct these detailed analyses. Currently, the K.F.U.P.M. is conducting experiments on PAH's analysis of high volume filters as a first step in this program. K.F.U.P.M. has not had any experience with PUF, VOC canister analysis, or PM₁₀ sampling and analysis. They have on hand the capability to expand their current analytical capability to provide support to the proposed network. The analytical laboratory of Saudi ARAMCO as with MEPA has had no experience in collecting and analyzing particulate PM₁₀ samples, PUF, and canister samples for VOC speciation and PAHs. In summary, the current level of technical competence within all of the facilities visited, MEPA, King Faud U.P.M., Saudi ARAMCO, and Kuwait, indicates that upon the procurement of adequate equipment, standards, and training, they all could support the sampling and analysis required for this program. A substantial number of meteorological measurement sites exist within the eastern provence of Saudi Arabia and the nations of the Gulf Region. Most of those sites are along the shoreline of the Gulf. ARAMCO operates 14 sites with meteorological data. Eight of those sites have collocated air quality measurements. Three of those sites are over the Gulf waters on platforms or on an island. MEPA (Saudi Arabia) has five sites with collocated air quality measurements. In addition, there are surface observations collected at many of the airports throughout the kingdom. Surface meteorological data are being collected at other Gulf region locations. Their locations may be identified through the WMO publications. Previously, there were other surface measurement sites within Kuwait but their operational status remain unknown at this time. Two upper air balloon sounding sites are operating within Saudi Arabia. One site is at Dhahran and the other is about 115 miles to the SW of Kuwait City at AI Qaysumah. Twice daily soundings are collected at those locations, at 0000 and 1200 GMT. Prior to the war in Kuwait, twice daily upper air soundings were made at the Kuwait International Airport. the resumption of those soundings could be of substantial benefit to describing the airflow across the areas of Kuwaiti oil fires. 2.2 Meteorological Observations The following summarizations are based upon first hand observations of the smoke plumes and fires. Those observations were made during overflights and during vehicle traverses both within the oil fields and along roads outside of the burning oil fields. For any given day, the prevailing large-scale meteorological pattern will be the main driving feature which determines where the smoke plumes will be located and how dense they will be. Individual smoke plumes appear to act in manners typical of buoyant plumes from ground level sources or plumes from short chimneys. Plume rise, the development of a bent-over plume geometry, etc., seem to apply to the individual well-head fires; some have jets of fire and others are nearly surface based burnings of the more combustible fractions of crude oil spread across the ground in the vicinity of the well. Most of the fire plumes rise to between 500 to 1000 feet above ground level before becoming mostly bent over, although some plumes have a significant amount of smoke remaining within a few hundred feet of the ground. Collectively, as groups of multiple fires within oil fields with a high density of burning wells (particularly Greater Burgan), they assert a meteorological influence of their own. It is suggested that *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-5 the grouping of fires with a horizontal diameter of 15 to 25 miles provides enough of an intense "heat- island" that significant additional vertical rise of the smoke occurs inside the area. That additional plume rise lifts smoke to elevations often 3000, 4000, to 5000 feet above ground within the initial few miles downwind. Eventually, portions of the smoke rise even more, with multiple layers often forming at heights up to 8000, 9000, even 12000 to 13000 feet. Between such layers and at the tops of layers many tens of miles downwind, a generally diffuse and homogenous zone of smoke has been observed. The eventual smoke height limits are bounded by the regional vertical temperature structure and synoptic weather characteristics. Information reviewed to date suggest that those maximum heights are mostly 8000 to 12000 feet within the initial 100 to 200 miles downwind from the Kuwaiti oil field fires. With the creation of a local heat-island, a distinct inflow of near surface air has been observed within the initial 500 to 1000 feet above ground level. At times, that inflow of wind is estimated to be 5 to 15 m/sec in strength. Smoke plumes at the peripheral bounds of the burn area tend to slant inward toward the center of the burning field instead of pointing downwind with direction of the expected ambient wind. Local variations in daily wind flow, along with the fire-storm like winds, are likely to produce preferred locations and times of day at which more concentrated smoke plume exposures reach ground level. Prevailing winds are from the northwest throughout the year. During the daytime a sea breeze can be expected to develop at the Gulf shoreline and progress inland as the day progresses. That inflow of air can readily clear out the smoke plumes and yield substantially cleaner air at ground level on the Gulf side. Along the leading edge of the sea breeze front there likely may be a zone of extended and elevated exposures to fire effluent. That zone may well extend down the shoreline from Kuwait City some 100 km. The area of greatest susceptibility appears to be to the southeast of fires in the AI Ahmadi oil field (part of the greater Burgan field). 2.3 Data Base Management In addition to evaluating the existing air monitoring networks, the Team made an initial review of existing data systems to handle the air monitoring data. The previous meteorological, air quality, and visual observations of the oil field fire plumes should be archived, along with data to be obtained during the period of on-going Kuwaiti fires. A dedicated facility for the performance of that archiving does not appear to exist. The data management task is likely to be a sizeable task and extended of a period of a year and more. Some of the general functional needs of the data management system include the following. The data which will need to be assembled into the data base will likely come from many different sources and exist in diverse formats and media. One role of the data base management activity will be to assemble all information into a common, uniform structure. The second and equally important part of the data archiving is the provisions of a uniform and consistent mechanism for the retrieval of data by participating agencies. The degree to which that data base is well formulated, will significantly affect the efforts of users of the data as they attempt to study and interpret the measurements. A number of possible methods exist for the set-up of a computerized data base. Commercial software and hardware of various degrees and complexity and cost exist which would satisfy the data management needs. Before the choices of system software and hardware are made, the functionality of the overall system and the manners in which users work with the data sets should be considered. For example, it may be required that the data base be a "relational" data base. Other sources of software that might be used to handle a large volume of data would be the U.S. Environmental Agency's (USEPA) *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-6 Aerometric Information and Retrieval System. That system can handle hourly data and has considerable software available to both summarize and analyze the ambient air data. MEPA has asked the Team to recommend the type of computer and associated software needed to manage the data collected in order to implement the monitoring plan. For now, it is more appropriate to defer specific recommendations. A number of general performance characteristics may be stated but specific details should be formulated in conjunction with data base specialists at a later date. RECOMMENDATIONS While preliminary, the Team believes that the following recommendations should be implemented based on our initial data gathering exercise. A general objective is listed as a recommended goal and below that objective are listed several needed items or activities to facilitate the achievement of the overall goal. 1. Objective: Provide a framework for an early warning advisory capability for areas expected to be impacted by effluents from Kuwaiti oil field fires. Needs: a. Meteorological data observations and forecasts b. Visual observations from key receptor areas C. Review existing monitoring data d. Calculate smoke trajectories and concentrations 2. Objective: Provide a cursory wide-area indication of the distribution and composition of the Kuwaiti oil field fire effluents. Needs: a. Establish 10 to 15 PM₁₀ monitoring locations using portable monitors. b. Train personnel in the operation of the portable PM-10 monitors and develop the analytical support capability within Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. C. Define the PM₁₀ to TSP ratios. d. Define the composition of the plume by XRF analysis for limited organic identification. e. Establish a central media preparation and analysis location. f. Define the baseline contribution of the ambient aerosol from the surrounding desert. 3. Objective: Characterize the aerial smoke plume. Needs: a. Collect many of the same plume measurements recommended for the ground monitoring array b. Collect descriptions of the width and vertical extent of the smoke plume at several downwind distances C. Characterize the regional background by samples outside of the smoke plumes 4. Objective: Develop a more complete profile of the smoke plume constituents Needs: a. Procure equipment for a limited number of comprehensive air quality monitoring stations to collect: TSP, PM₁₀, organic, and inorganic constituents *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-7 b. Establish a limited number of comprehensive air quality monitoring stations to collect: TSP, PM 10' organic, and inorganic constituents. These should be collocated with the continuous monitors wherever possible. C. Train individuals to operate and maintain the sampling instrumentation in support of the monitoring program d. Procure the necessary analytical laboratory equipment required for analyses of the samples collected under this objective e. Train laboratory personnel in the preparation of the sampling media, QA/QC procedures required and the subsequent sample analytical procedures. 5. Objective: Determine the need for expansion of the monitoring network to a wider regional coverage. Needs: a. Review the data developed from the limited network. b. Assess the current and projected status of control of the oil field fires and emissions. C. Review the population health survey statistics. d. Review the suitability of the sampling strategy, and modify where needed e. Expand the limited network as the situation requires, data analysis indicates an additional need for data, the response of the affected populations indicate, or the model requires additional parameters. Many of the same considerations listed for air quality above also apply to meteorological considerations. 6. Objective: Provide a meteorological data stream to facilitate the modeling and prediction of areas expected to be impacted by effluents from Kuwaiti oil field fires. Needs: a. Upper air balloon sounding data representative of the Kuwaiti oil field fire area and Gulf region plume transport. b. Supplemental surface based measurements of wind speed and direction, temperature, moisture content of the air (dew point, relative humidity, etc.), solar radiation, atmospheric pressure, precipitation. 7. Objective: Provide a meteorological data set to investigate the areas of climate modifications occurring due to effluents from Kuwaiti oil field fires. Needs: a. Supplemental surface based measurements diffuse and direct solar radiation. b. Special collections of precipitation throughout the region to examine the pH and chemistry of the rains. C. Aircraft soundings and profiles of smoke, winds and temperatures, air quality related measurements of plume compositions and concentrations representative of the Kuwaiti oil field fire area and Gulf region transported plumes. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-8 4. PHASED AIR MONITORING PLAN This section of the report discusses a prioritized plan of stepwise incremental actions for the phased implementation of the recommendations discussed above. Five phases for implementing the plan follow. 4.1 Phase 1. Provide a Framework for an Early Warning Advisory In order to accomplish this task, the following action items need to be initiated or incorporated into the task framework. 1. Gather daily weather forecasts to predict meteorological conditions which would effect pollution potential in both Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. 2. Use visual observations from key receptor sites to determine possible pollution levels. 3. Gather existing air monitoring data from fixed and mobile sites operated by MEPA, Saudi ARAMCO, and the governments of Kuwait and Bahrain to develop a data base of existing data. 4. Establish a daily briefing for representatives of the many entities concerned with behaviors and fate of the aerial effluents from the oil field fires in Kuwait. 5. Develop a daily map depiction of the aerial distribution of the smoke plumes across the region using satellite imagery, for each day since initiation of the oil field fires. 6. Issue a daily general statement about the expected behavior(s) of the oil fire plumes. Areas of potentially adverse conditions could be treated as locations for which advisories would be issued. 7. Provide forecast meteorological conditions across the region for the next 2 to 3 day period, including the expected location(s) of the smoke. 8. Obtain data from the MEPA network throughout the eastern province. 9. Direct the crews of the SLAR aircraft, (USCG Falcon Jet), to continue on a regular basis the present visual observation and mapped notations concerning the horizontal extent of the smoke plumes and the estimations of altitudes of layer bases and tops. 10. The above information could be compiled initially in hard copy form. Later it should be stored on electronic media in a way that an existing PC data management system could readily incorporate it. 4.2 Phase 2. Establish a PM₁₀ Monitoring Network Using Portable PM₁₀ Monitors. Working in conjunction with the Saudi Arabian Meteorology and Environmental Protection Agency (MEPA), the proposed plan has been developed to collect information on PM₁₀, which represents particulate matter with particulates less than 10 microns in diameter. At the present time there is no PM₁₀ monitoring in the Gulf region. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-9 OBJECTIVES The objectives for this effort are as follows: 1) Determine the magnitude or the health threat to residents of population centers and field- based military personnel impacted by the oil field fires and typical sources (windblown desert soils). 2) Establish a scientifically based capability to alert these affected populations prior to the onset of the potential health threats from real-time measurements. 3) Establish a technical basis for executing predictive air quality dispersion models which simulate the oil well fire emissions, background sources, and consequent impacts over space and time. 4) Establish a regional network of PM₁₀ stations using a consistent monitoring methodology across the countries of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain. 5) Train personnel to operate and analyze the media produced by the network from each of the participating countries. 6) Develop a regional data base and encourage the sharing of data developed from the network with all participants. The above objectives convert the foregoing goals into discrete actions: 1) Determine the spatial temporal frequency, and severity of the impact to the resident populations and military centers affected through the application of saturation sampling techniques with portable PM₁₀ samplers. 2) Establish the correlation of real-time surrogate monitoring data to date generated from direct sampling methods through the collocation and simultaneous operation of both methods over time. 3) Where possible use impact data collected from samplers as an input to the dispersion model, run the model "backwards" to develop a better estimate of the emission rates of the fires and produce a higher level of confidence in the predictive modeling results. 4) Obtain from the literature and/or develop from source sampling analysis chemical profiles of all major pollutant sources in order to: a) identify those contaminants that pose the greatest health concerns and to develop an estimate of acceptable ambient levels (AALs) prior to the conduct of field work, b) identify the chemical "signature" of the major contaminants and other tracers characteristic of the primary sources, c) enable apportionment of these contaminants and other tracer compounds from a simple total mass concentration measured by the ambient samples, and *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-10 d) attempt to relate these levels in turn to the surrogate real-time monitoring methods for use in issuing timely health risk alerts. 5) Ensure that the data generated by the network are of a demonstrably high quality (precision & accuracy), completeness, representativeness, and comparability. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-11 TIME POSITION BASE/TOP WIND (LAT/LONG) (DIR/SPD) 0545 N2623E50-31 CLR VIS 15 M 332/23 0600 N2700E4958 CLR 321/19 0615 N2744E4916 CLR 300/20 0630 N2822E4839 TOPS 070/030 331/008 0645 N2918E4819 SMOKE 060/030 335/10 0700 N2932E4810 SMOKE 070/030 344/10 0715 N29344830 SMOKE 070/030 265/7 0730 N29354857 THIN SMOKE 050/030 215/6 0745 N2925E4920 VERY THIN SMOKE 090 133/003 0800 N2833E4945 THICKER SMOKE 090/ 080 326/006 0815 N2738E5035 THIN SMOKE 090/080 280/005 0830 N2702E5111 SMOKE 090/060 192/010 0845 N2625E5148 SMOKE/HAZE 080/060 215/12 0900 N2618E5118 SMOKE/HAZE 070/SURF 230/009 *** DRAFT DOCUMENT April 2, 1991 FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-12 APPROACH Conduct a PM₁₀ saturation sampling study for the determination of the temporal and spatial features of the impact of the oil well fires and attempt to reconcile the data with existing model estimates. PM₁₀ mass concentrations would be available within 24-48 hours following sampling. No on- site meteorological, gas, or aerosol monitoring or chemical analysis is required (chemistry could be attempted later on the preserved media). One or more portable nephelometers would be collocated at several sampling sites to develop correlations between manual and continuous (real-time) methods for alert advisories. A total of 15-20 portable PM₁₀ samplers equipped with quartz filters would be run simultaneously on a daily basis or "triggered" (impact forecast) basis throughout the study area. Network design would involve a "nested" approach to address the objectives: 1) samplers sited at background locations (not impacted) by the smoke plume and samplers in populated areas. 2) samplers in populated areas impacted by smoke. Samplers could be "ganged" (2 or more) and programmed to run consecutively at individual sites if filter clogging problems occur because of high loading. Further, multiple samplers could be collocated at certain sites to collect fine particulates (less than 2.5 microns) and coarse particulates (2.5- 10 microns) on teflon sample filters (facilitating XRF elemental analysis). One of the 10-12 sampling sites would be equipped with duplicate samplers in an effort to develop sampling precision estimates. This comprehensive program will yield the following: 1) short turnaround PM₁₀ concentrations, 2) gross estimates of the fire-specific contributions to total mass could be derived by subtracting background concentrations from the impact site concentrations, 3) applying assumptions on the source profiles to pollutant loading attributable to the well fires, estimates of individual target compound loadings could be computed and a comparison to AALs made, 4) correlations factors can be determined between real-time surrogate methods and manual methods, and 5) impacted sampling media would be available for subsequent intensive chemical analysis in an attempt to reconcile assumed source signatures and extracts can be used to perform any other analytical tests (mutagenicity). Special precautions may be needed to preserve the sample integrity during storage and transfer. Limitations: no on-site meteorological data to calculate emissions rates, no on-site chemistry (unless developed) to confirm critical assumptions, and no concurrent gas or acid aerosol measurements to evaluate or correlate with the particulate data. Resources: 1-2 professionals, 1 field technician per site, if it must be operated individually (actual number contingent upon the network logistics and potential "clogging" implications), portable PM₁₀ saturation samplers, portable nephelometers, lap-top computer, microbalance, expendables and sundry support gear. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-13 In summary, this approach is PM₁₀ mass data-rich, and assumption rich and in contrast to being reconciliation and broad pollutant characterization-poor. SAMPLING AND ANALYTICAL METHODS The alternate approaches identified above involve the use of a variety of sampling and analytical methods summarized below: Portable PM₁₀ Saturation Samplers - segregate and capture of filter, particulates of 10 micron size (respirable particles) and smaller. - battery-operated, lightweight, rugged, inexpensive, small, and quiet. - easily deployed and operated. - programmable timer for unattended on and off. - rechargeable battery packs. - continuous operation up to 30 hours on a single charge. - precise and accurate. - low detection limit of approximately 5 ug/m3 - sustained operation under high particulate loadings, e.g. 100 ug/m3 or more. - electronic sample flow regulation. - electronic sample flow totalizer. - low flow shutoff/warning. - can accept a variety of other pollutant sampling media (e.g. PUF, DNPH, charcoal, denuders, etc.) or take whole air samples (Tedlar bags) with little or no modification. Portable nephelometers - many of the same attributes of the PM₁₀ - battery operated - effectively measure particulates of 1 micron diameter or smaller. - continuous reading, storing five minute averages. - rechargeable. - continuous operation from 2-48 hours on a single battery charge. - internal storage for up to nine days of sampling data. - data download to a portable lap-top computer through RS232 serial port. - operationally equivalent to standard nephelometers. Microbalance - five to six place balance. - rugged, transportable while precise and accurate. Field XRF Unit - similar MQLS with situ laboratory units. - rugged. Support Gear - calibration and audit gear, tools and diagnostic equipment, etc. PROPOSED NETWORK DESIGN *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-14 The recommendation for siting of the portable PM₁₀ samplers is predicated on providing a large area of coverage for developing a better estimate of the areas impacted by the plume, a cross-sampling of population and troop centers, and to a capability to provide a technology transfer to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain. SAUDI ARABIA - collocated site at K.F.U.P.M. (2 sites) - two sites in Riyadh (1 U.S. Embassy & 1 MEPA location) - one site Royal Commission at Jubayl - one site Saudi ARAMCO at Tanajib - one site MEPA at Khafji Total of seven (7) sites. KUWAIT - three sites (3) located at the two operational continuous monitoring sites within Kuwait City (one site collocated) - one site at Camp Freedom - One site U.S. Embassy - One site AI Hamadi (Kuwait Oil Company Hospital) Total of six (6) sites. CENTCOM - two sites at selected troop locations Total of two (2) sites. BAHRAIN - one site to be determined Total of one (1) site. A total of sixteen samplers are committed to field sampling with the remainder as spares or as changes to the sampling plan requires. Phase 3. Characterize the Aerial Plume. This phase should follow closely with Phase 2, in order to characterize the 3-dimensional nature of the smoke plumes from the fires in Kuwaiti oil fields. To achieve that goal, many of the same plume measurements collected by the existing and proposed ground level measurement locations should be provided by the aerial sampling platform. Obviously, the longer time integrated samples (e.g., 24 hour total values, averages, etc.) cannot be reproduced by aircraft borne devices. Short-term and across plume integrated measurement descriptions may be obtained to characterize the special extent and details of actual constituents of the elevated portions of the oil fire plumes. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-15 The aerial sampling activities may be separated into measurements which address the three general zones of plume characteristics, from an a meteorological sense. Those zones are the 1) close- in zone, 2)intermediate or transition zone and 3)extended or distant zone. Measurements very near the wellhead are difficult to impossible to obtain due to excessive heat and great levels of turbulence. Measurements at intermediate distances will be difficult and many locations within the clustered groups of burning wells may be unsafe for aerial traverses due to the extremely dense smoke and hidden turbulent plumes. Measurements at the longer distances, a few miles downwind of the burning wells, should be possible. Measurements from a few to several hundred miles downwind of the fire area should be feasible. Within that distance range the approximate concentrations, plume dimensions, and estimated mass flux in the downwind directions may be approximated. The aerial sampling strategies should concentrate on the obtaining of those types of information. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-16 4.4 Phase 4. Develop a Complete Profile of the Smoke Plume Constituents. Obtain additional equipment to expand existing continuous monitoring high priority sites in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia The survey conducted by the Team during Phase 1 of this plan indicated that within the region, respirable particulate sampling technology, aerosol and total particulate sampling and analysis for volatile organic compounds (VOC), semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOC), and PAHs were either not available or insufficient to properly characterize the effects of the oil well fires on the population centers and the troop concentrations within the region. This phase of the plan proposes to bring into the region several new technologies and to train personnel withn the region to operate samplers, to condition, and analyze the several new media necessry to support this expanded network. The objective of this process is to develop a stand-along capability within each participating country for aerosol and particulate monitoring which will support the Gulf regional air quality characterization and index plan outlined in Phase V. During this phase of the plan the Team proposes to expand the continuous air and meteorological monitoring currently being conducted within the region at six sites. These sites are recommended based on the need to jointly develop the sampling and analytical capability within the region to ensure that it becomes self-sufficient and sustainable. The particular technologies outlined below are not currently operated within the rgion nor are the analytical procedures required to support them currently being utilized. However, the Phase I survey indicates that with sufficient training, additional equipment, and some experience with actual field samples the transfer should be relatively smooth. Initially, the Team's recommendation of six sites strategically placed along the axis of the area of greatest impact by the oil well fire plume will generate sufficiaent samples for the required training, while also providing critical data not currently being collected by the existing networks or available through the portable PM₁₀ network proposed in Phase II. As this data base develops it can be used to better define the constituents of the plume and thus permit a more accurate assessment of the potential long-term health risk. The equipment listed below should be collocated with the full compliment of continuous air and meteorological monitors described in Phase V at these six proposed sites. A brief description of the equipment is provided below: TSP High Volume Sample used to collect a 24-hour sample of the total suspended particulates, operated nominally at 50 OFM, and typically uses 8x10 inch glass fiber, quartz, or teflon filter media. PM₁₀ High Volume Sampler - used to collect a 24-hour sample of the 10 micron and smaller sized fraction of the total suspended particulate sample collected by the TSP sampler above, sampler is typically operated at 40 CFM, and utilizes an 8x10 inch Quartz or teflon filter media. Note: glass fiber media should not be used if there is concern for a known sulfate artifact formation problem. PM₁₀ Manual Dichotomous Sampler - used to collect a 24-hour sample of the 10 micron particulate size fraction of the TSP, sampler operates at 16.7 liters/minute, and utilzes two (2) 37 mm diameter Teflon filters to collect a fractionated sample with a cut point of 0-2.5 micron (fine fraction) and 2.5 10 micron (coarse fraction). *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-17 VOC Canister Sampler - used to collect up to a 24- hour integrated whole air sample in six-liter evacuated stainless steel canisters, interior walls are passivated to minimize sample degradation, samples volume can be rgulated by either limiting the volume to ambient pressure or pumping in addition sample to an approximate volume of 16 liters, these samples can be used for the determination of total hydrocarbons or analyzed for specific hydrocarbons, multiple analysis are available from a single pressurized canister sample. Note: An extensive canister cleanup process is required prior to the collection of additional air samples. Polyurethane Foam (PUF) Low Volume Sampler - used to collect 24-hour aerosol samples utilizing small AC or battery operated pumps at flow rates less than five liters per minute on relatively small glass cartridges containing a PUF plug, these samples can be extracted and analyzed for PAHs, or other SVOCs. Note: Both the glass cartridge and PUG plug require an extensive cleanup procedure prior to re-use. Optional Tenex/Charcoal/XAD-2 tubes - these media can be used with same type of low volume pumps described above to collect additional samples for further definition of the constituents of the plume for SVOCs. Organic compounds will be present in all three phase distributions (particle bound, SVOC, and VOC) and each phase will have to be sampled and then a determination will have made as to importance of each. The particle bound is phase can be collected [something missing?] for extractible organic analysis from both quartz, teflon impregnated glass fiber gilters, or teflon. The SVOC phase can be collected on PUF and within the canister. The VOC phase can be collected with canisters and charcoal tubes. Employment of Tenex and SAD-2 sampling tubes in conjunction with PUF, charcoal tubes, and canisters in an overlapping sampling matrix, can be used to confirm of the presence or absence of compounds which could be missed by a less complex sampling matrix. Proposed locations for the initial six expanded sites: The Team recommends that the six locations follow the general axis of plume drift from Kuwait City south into Saudi Arabia. It is further suggested that the operation of these sites be divided amongst the key network managers within the two countries: Kuwait, MEPA, and Saudi ARAMCO. This division of respnsibility supports the philosophy to jointly develop both the sampling and analytical capability within all three entities. Kuwaiti Locations The Team recommends that two (2) of the sites be located at the existing operational continuous monitoring stations located in Kuwait City. A third site should be established in Al-Abmadj at the Kuwaiti Oil Company Hospital. This location is situated within 300 400 meters of several burning wells and is adjacent to the closest residential area associated with any of the oil fields. Saudia Arabian Locations The Team recommends that a site be established at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Miners (K.F.U.P.M.) in Dharhran, one site to be collocated with Saudi ARAMCO site in Tanajib and the *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-18 last site should be collocated with the MEPA sie in Khafji which currently is only collecting meteorology data. Episodic/EARLY WARNING measurements Longer term monitoring PM₁₀ (continuous) Acid aerosols TSP VOCs SO2 (continuous) Aldehydes O3 (continuous) BaP, other PAHs NOx, NO (continuous) Trace elements CO (continuous) Fine particles H2S (continuous) 3. Health Monitoring Survey Air monitoring data collected through the proposed air monitoring network will provide basis for interpreting the results of health surveys of the populations and ecosystems potentially effected by the effluents from the oil fires in Kuwait. The kinds of health data that could be collected include: Health questionnaires Blood samples Hair samples In-vivo animal studies Forced expiratory volumes Other morbidity parameters Distribution of Proposed and Existing Air Monitoring Sites Table 2 shows the location of the existing and proposed air monitoring sites, while Table 3 lists the locations of the proposed air monitoring sites. In order to complete the network in an orderly manner, it is proposed that the network be developed in several stages. The first order of business would be to upgrade the existing monitoring locations so that there exist a full complement of air and meteorological monitoring equipment, as well as add new critical air monitoring stages (Stage 1). The second stage would be to establish those sites that would satisfy the minimum requirements for tracking the plume caused by the oil fire and to provide an early warning system for Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain (Stage 2). The third and final stage would be to complete the final network following a review of the quality and quantity of findings to date (Stage). 5. SUMMARY The initial measurements made by the Team suggest that there is not an imminent threat from SO2 and H2S to the urban populations, while short term measurements of particulate are frequently high. Historically, this region has high particulate levels due to wind blown dust. The particulate measurements that were collected by the Team reflect total particulate, as opposed to respirable particulates, that is PM₁₀. There has not been a principal focus in the Region on total particulate, PM10 and organics up to now. Therefore, the Team developed the five phased monitoring plan with an emphasis on better understanding particulates and the aerosol organics associated with the oil fires in Kuwait. Particulates and organics could be a source of concern for both health and ecological effects. *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-19 The air monitoring proposals presented in this report represent the Team's collective judgement on what needs to be done. Those judgements are based upon an on-site evaluation of the situation in Kuwait, discussions with officials from the Saudi Arabian MEPA, Kuwait, Saudi ARAMCO, and the King Faud University of Petroleum and Minerals. Needless to say more work is needed regarding data management, statistical design, data analysis and quality assurance. Because of the complexity and immediacy of this problem, an extended time commitment will be needed on the part of all Gulf nation agencies to achieve the objectives outlined in this report. Cost estimates for the various tuypes of air and meteorological monitors are attached to this plan, along with documentation on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Pollutant Standards Index (PSI). *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-20 TABLE 2. Location of existing air and meteorology monitoring stations NATION ORGANIZATION LOCATION STAGE OF IMPLEMENTATION EXISTING SITES Saudi Arabia MEPA Damman 1 Hofuf 2 Tanagib (Mobile Site) 1 Riyadh 1 Khafji (Met Only) 1 Udayliyah 3 Shedgum 3 Abqaiq 3 Dhahran 2 Tartut 2 Rahimah 2 Juaymah 1 Tanajib 1 Saffaniyah Oil Field 3 (met only) Marjan Oil Field (met only) 3 Farisiyah Island (met only) 2 The Royal Comm. for Cluster of 5 stations 1 Jubyayl and in Jubyayl Yunbo Existing Sites: SITE 1 1 Kuwait SITE 2 1 SITE 3 1 Existing Sites: 3 mobile units, unknown locations 2 Qatar TABLE 3. Location of proposed air and meteorology monitoring stations NATION ORGANIZATION LOCATION STAG E *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-21 Proposed Sites: Saudi Arabia MEPA Awiyah 3 Shumlul 2 Sarrar 2 Nuayriyah 2 Lisafah 3 Uafar al Batin 1 28 deg 6 min latitude, 47 deg 51 min longitude 2 28 deg 30 min latitude 48 deg 1 min longitude 1 28 deg 55 min latitude 47 deg 32 min longitude 2 29 deg 7 min latitude 46 deg 39 min longitude 2 Kuwait Mina Saud 1 U.S. Embassy 1 AI Ahmadi 1 (Hospital) International 1 Airport 29 deg 23 min latitude 46 deg 55 min longitude 2 29 deg 50 min latitude 47 deg 15 min longitude 2 30 deg 4 min latitude 47 deg 42 min longitude 2 29 deg 33 min latitude 47 deg 50 min longitude 2 Bahrain Manamah 2 Qatar Dawhah 2 United Arab Emirates Aub Dhabi 3 Dubai 3 Oman Muscat 3 *** DRAFT DOCUMENT - April 2, 1991 - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY - DO NOT QUOTE OR CITE *** C-22