The inspections are a precautionary measure to ensure that the dams across the state are structurally sound and that there is not threat of another dangerous spill occurring. The dam safety program will require dam owners to provide updated inspection reports and evaluations of the structures including any risk of impoundment breaking through into inactive or abandoned mines. State engineers also will conduct inspections both on ground at the dam sites and with aerial photographs of the impoundments and reservoirs, alerting owners if they see issues that may need addressing.

Engineers have two classifications for fly ash dams – Class 1 fly ash dams have “high hazard potential,” which can likely cause loss of life if the dams fail. Class 2 fly ash dams carry “significant hazard.” If these dams fail, loss of life is unlikely but heavy property damage is likely to occur.

The Tennessee Valley Authority flooding was the largest industrial spill of its kind in the United States, dumping more than a billion gallons of ash and sludge on to 300 acres of a rural East Tennessee neighborhood and pouring into the Tennessee, Emory and Clinch rivers.

The ash that covered the acreage and rivers contain toxins such as arsenic, lead, barium, chromium and manganese. Those dangerous toxins have been associated with serious health conditions in humans, such as cancer, liver damage and neurological complications.

SOURCE: Coal Ash Spill › West Virginia dams to be inspected for safety