We are committed to the timely and transparent release of information related to chemical vapors in the Hanford tank farms. This website seeks to provide data, news and background information so interested parties can have an informed dialogue on this important issue. AOP-015 Event Investigation Reports are available here and C-67 Event Investigation Reports are available here and are published in accordance with the Settlement Agreement (full) (Settlement agreement with modifications 02/01/2023) after the reports have been completed and approved for publishing.
What are
Hanford Vapors?
Hanford tank vapors are complex. Learn more about what chemicals in the tanks, the types of chemicals, Occupational Exposure Limits (OELs), and various vapors sources.
How we
Protect Workers
Learn more about the vapors management strategy, industrial hygiene (IH) sampling and monitoring, the Tank Vapors Assessment Team (TVAT) Implementation Plan and other independent assessments.
Air-Purifying
Respirators
A respirator is a device worn by workers to protect against harmful dust, fumes, vapors or gases. Air-purifying respirators (APRs) use a filter cartridge to clean the air before it enters the respiratory tract.
Hanford's Tank Farms
Today
We have implemented a proactive management approach to chemical vapors exposure. This includes:
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- Ensuring farm boundaries are protective and safe
- Providing centralized command and control
- Implementing a comprehensive plan inside/outside farm boundary
- Establishing rigorous source identification and effective controls
The Breakdown
Hanford has 177 tanks: 149 single-shell and 28 newer double-shell.
Hanford’s tanks contain 56 million gallons of high-level radioactive and chemical wastes.
There are 1,800 different chemicals in Hanford’s tank waste.
61 of those chemicals pose a potential health concern to Hanford workers.
FAQs
What activities would require respiratory protection?
