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Due to the properties of the compounds, cleanup of sites with impacts from solvents like trichloroethene (TCE) are difficult and lengthy. In addition, the geology of the Beverly site adds additional challenges, and there are buildings located on top of the release areas.

Varian has a dedicated technical team focused on the cleanup efforts. The technical team is evaluating all options for the remaining cleanup with regular updates to the technical advisory group (TAG) and the public. Our priority is to keep the community safe, and we are committed to working with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental protection (MassDEP) to meet the 2024 deadline.

“No significant risk” is a regulatory term that applies when a contaminant is either not detected or is below a certain risk level that is established based on conservative and health-protective assumptions. While the test results and evidence the Varian technical team has seen to date indicate no significant risk to the local community as defined by MassDEP, Varian is committed to the cleanup of the site.

All applicable technologies will be considered during preparation of the Phase III Remedial Action Plan to be completed in the fall. Potential treatment options that will be considered and evaluated will include: thermal treatment, bioremediation, soil vapor extraction, and a combination of complementary treatment options such as thermal treatment plus bioremediation.

The house at 28 Hill Street was a unique situation, and the technical team has conducted extensive testing of the neighboring houses to confirm that this situation was unique.

Varian worked with the homeowners of that house for years to ensure there was not significant risk at that house. When the house came to market, it was determined that the best course was to purchase and demolish the house because the structure had become dilapidated.

The demolition crew was required to wear protective suits due to potential hazards associated with building materials such as lead-based paint or asbestos in pipe insulation or floor tiles. Lead and asbestos-containing material in old houses are common in Massachusetts and are unrelated to the site chemicals.