EPA to Begin Hazardous Waste Cleanup at Goo Smoke Shop Site in Clinton Township, Michigan
CHICAGO (Aug. 21, 2024) – Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the start of cleanup of hazardous waste resulting from a fire and multiple explosions earlier this year at the former Goo Smoke Shop and Select Distributors Warehouse at 19100 15 Mile Road, Clinton Twp., Michigan. Residents may see heavy equipment in preparation for cleanup activities to begin next week. EPA anticipates the cleanup will take several months.
In May, EPA conducted an initial cleanup to degas and recycle 3,582 intact compressed gas cylinders, and to remove three 55-gallon drums of lithium-ion batteries. The cleanup starting next week will address the remaining hazardous materials at the site, including uncovered cans of butane, intact compressed gas cylinders, vaping pens and lithium-ion batteries. The estimated cost of the cleanup is $2.7 million.
This week, EPA prepared for the cleanup by establishing site controls (including setting up work trailers and additional fencing) and mobilizing construction equipment, technicians and security personnel. EPA will conduct perimeter air and particulate monitoring to ensure protection of public health and the environment during active operations.
On the evening of March 4, a fire and multiple explosions occurred at the warehouse, which was used as a wholesale distributor of vape pens, CBD products, hookahs, lighters and other novelty items. Initial reports indicated the presence of approximately 100,000 cans of ultra-refined butane, thousands of compressed gas cylinders containing nitrous oxide, as well as thousands of vape pens containing lithium-ion batteries. The fire and resulting projectile explosions spread potentially contaminated debris up to several miles in multiple directions.
In the immediate aftermath of the explosions, EPA conducted air monitoring, stabilized the site, and surveyed within a half-mile radius of the site to identify areas of debris. EPA collected and staged materials on site for proper disposal.
To learn more, visit EPA’s Goo Smoke Shop website.
###