The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has officially completed the final phase of hazardous waste removal at the Reading Drum site, concluding a comprehensive cleanup effort that began in late 2023 following a series of fires at the former Lincoln Chemical Company building.
The site, located in Reading, had long been a concern after two significant fires in 2023 left the non-operational industrial facility in disrepair, with numerous hazardous chemicals and damaged containers on-site. In response, the EPA launched an emergency removal action in coordination with the City of Reading, Berks County Emergency Services, and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP).
“We are committed to protecting human health and the environment by removing hazardous substances that presented a potential threat to local residents,” said Paul Leonard, Director of the EPA Region 3 Superfund and Emergency Management Division. “Through strong collaboration with local and state partners, we’re pleased to announce the completion of cleanup for the Reading community.”
Between November 2023 and January 2024, the EPA conducted air monitoring and asbestos sampling at the site, with all results falling below levels of concern. In total, more than 550 containers of hazardous materials were identified and safely removed, including flammables, acids, peroxides, and other chemical hazards. The EPA invested approximately $1.8 million into the cleanup effort.
To keep residents informed, the EPA established a Joint Information Center (JIC), working alongside local and state agencies to distribute fact sheets and postcards with updates. Community feedback was also gathered through interviews in early 2024 to help shape a Community Involvement Plan that guided the cleanup strategy.
With the hazardous materials now removed, the EPA has concluded its emergency response actions at the site. The agency emphasized that it remains committed to supporting the community in determining safe and beneficial future uses for the property.
More information about the site and ongoing updates are available on the EPA’s Reading Drum emergency response webpage.