Shintech Louisiana Llc - Addis Plant A

Industry: Plastics Material and Resin Manufacturing

Toxic chemicals emitted by company

Definition: Chlorine, a gas with a very irritating odor, is used to disinfect water and in the manufacture of thousands of products. Exposure to low levels can irritate the nose, throat and eyes. At high levels,there can be lung damage. U.S. and international agencies have not classified chlorine as a carcinogen.

Definition: Vinyl chloride, a colorless gas, is used to make polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a component of plastic products, pipes, wire and cable coatings, and packaging materials. Breathing vinyl chloride can cause dizziness and, at very high levels, death. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has determined that vinyl chloride is a known carcinogen. Studies in workers who have breathed vinyl chloride over many years showed an increased risk of liver, brain, and lung cancer.

Sources: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, University of Massachusetts Amherst

To report corrections and clarifications, contact the USA TODAY investigative team. For publication consideration in the newspaper, send comments to letters@usatoday.com. Include name, phone number, city and state for verification.

Guidelines:
You share in the USA TODAY community, so please keep your comments smart and civil. Don't attack other readers personally, and keep your language decent. Use the "Report Abuse" button to make a difference. Read more.

QUESTIONS YOU MIGHT HAVE

What if my school ranks high? Should I be alarmed? What do I do next? Can I test the air myself? Get answers.