Dioxin plan development

The Portable Unit arrived at the Times Beach Dioxin Research Facility on July 8, 1985, to demonstrate decontamination of the dioxin laden soil. The Unit was set up and made ready for operation within a few hours after arrival to the site. This rapid setup demonstrated its unique capability for mobility. The testing personnel followed a safety plan developed by the Missouri DNR which included pretest physical examinations, use of Class C safety clothing, and vital sign monitoring and rest periods for personnel. The weather was hot and humid which required the work in the trailer to be limited to 20 minutes at a time. 

Successful reproduction (and sex) involves many complex chemical processes that can be disrupted at various points to reduce fertility and conception. Part of this process is under control of the endocrine system, and chemicals that affect the endocrine system are termed endocrine disruptors. In the 1950s, understanding of the endocrine system led to the development of birth control pills as a way to reduce fertility in humans. This is a desirable and planned use of endocrine disruptors. Subsequently, it was discovered that a number of chemicals released into the environment could disrupt the endocrine system and reduce fertility of wildlife. Some are concerned that exposure to these chemicals, such as DDT and dioxin (TCDD), may also affect human fertility (Table 17.1). Approximately 15% of couples of reproductive age are infertile. Endocrine disruptors may also affect fetal development, causing demasculization and feminization of the offspring, which in turn cause reduced fertility in the next generation. 

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