Introduction
People who live near Intel have raised questions about whether our facility poses any health or safety risks to the community. To answer these questions, Intel commissioned a sitewide risk assessment study by a third-party evaluator. The assessment began in 1995, was completed in 1996, and the final report was published in 1997. The study found that Intel does not pose health risks to our neighbors, and that chemical levels in the soil and air are as low near Intel as in other parts of the Rio Grande Valley.

This was the first comprehensive, scientific review of a company's risk management practices in the chip-making industry.

Background
Intel New Mexico's site risk assessment sought to answer these questions:

	What is the potential for a one-time accidental release of chemicals at Intel?
	What would be the possible effects of a one-time accidental release?
	Are there any long-term health risks associated with day-to-day exposure to Intel's emissions?

Background
Intel's Community Advisory Panel first recommended the study in 1994. We wanted to address neighbors' concerns stemming from the Fab 11 construction, as well as identify areas for improvement in our facility design and emergency response systems. We felt an independent assessment would be the most complete and accurate measure of Intel's possible impact.

Who conducted the study?
We chose Radian International LLC, a recognized leader in environmental consulting. Radian is known internationally for its solid, scientifically accurate evaluations. In addition, the study was reviewed by an independent panel composed of four Community Advisory Panel members and three medical and emergency response specialists from the local community.

What role did the oversight panel play?
The panel met each quarter to evaluate the study's progress. They reviewed the methodology of the study and recommended that the study be expanded to include evaluation of additional "worst-case" scenarios. The purpose of the panel was to ensure the credibility of the study and to make sure that the final report communicated the results in a clear and understandable way.

When was the study conducted?
The study began in 1995 and was completed in 1996. Results were published in June 1997.

What did the evaluation entail?
First, Radian searched Intel's records to determine which chemicals were used, how much of each was used, and how the chemicals were handled and stored. Of 72 chemicals used and emitted at Intel, 22 were identified as potentially toxic. Radian looked at how and where these chemicals were used, and in what amounts.

Radian then used computer modeling to determine the likelihood and effect of chemical releases. The evaluation considered worst-case scenarios for atmospheric conditions, as well as possible effects on different individuals at various distances from the site.

To assess health risks, Radian analyzed the effects of exposure to Intel chemicals in soil, air, and locally grown food. Technicians collected air and soil samples near the Intel site and compared them to offsite samples. The study considered anyone who could be affected—including employees of local businesses, long-term residents near the plant, the elderly and children. It considered not only risk levels for life-threatening illnesses, but also for conditions such as skin and eye irritations.

Throughout the study, Radian conducted their assessment in accordance with the United States EPA and OSHA regulations and guidance. The methods were developed with input from academic institutions, private institutions, and federal, state and local governments, as well as comments contributed by the general public and Intel's Community Advisory Panel.

Results
The study found that Intel does not pose health risks to our neighbors, even those who have lived near the site for 20 years or more. Intel's risk management practices meet and exceed all applicable safety regulations. The risk of a one-time accidental chemical release is very low and will be further reduced by steps we've taken onsite.

What did the study determine about cancer risks?
Radian's evaluation found that Intel neighbors are not at increased risk for cancer.

What about health risks other than cancer?
Radian also found that Intel's emissions do not pose a health risk to long-term residents.

What about chemical levels in soil and air near the site?
Soil and air samples taken near Intel were found to be comparable with those found in other parts of the Rio Grande Valley. The chemical levels in these samples are far below the levels that would pose a health risk.

What about the risk for chemical release?
The Environmental Protection Agency, OSHA and Department of Transportation set acceptable risk levels for one-time accidental releases. The chances of any such emergency happening at Intel are well below those levels. Of all the chemicals we use, only chlorine and hydrochloric acid would have possible consequences offsite—and the chemical storage facilities we use guard against release of these chemicals.

The study found that:
Intel's careful handling and storage of chemicals make the likelihood of any release very low.

The amount of chemicals that could be released is minimal.

Our neighbors would not be harmed by any reasonably likely release

Future
Although the overall study was very positive, it did identify areas for improvement. We've taken steps to further boost our safety standards—moving certain chemicals into more secure, modern facilities, for example. And we continue our stringent efforts to minimize Intel's impact on the environment.

What steps has Intel taken since the study?

	We've shared results of the report with surrounding communities, regulators, emergency planners and legislators.
	We've worked to bring our facility safety systems to optimal levels.
	We've invested in Emergency Preparedness Training, conducting safety drills on possible scenarios that were explored in the assessment. Our drills now cover not only the most hazardous substances, but also the chemicals most likely to be released in an accident.

Summary
The sitewide risk evaluation conducted in 1995-97 found that:

	The chance of any one-time accidental release of chemicals is low—well within established safety standards.
	Intel New Mexico's emissions do not pose health risks to short- or long-term residents.
	To quote Radian International LLC, who conducted the evaluation: "The Chronic Risk Assessment and Catastrophic Risk Assessment clearly demonstrate that the Intel facility is safe. It is highly unlikely that any adverse health effects could result from the Intel site, given the safety and control measures already in place at the Rio Rancho facility."

How can I find out more about the study?
The full study is available in the Rio Rancho and Corrales public libraries. Additional chemical information can be found on the Environmental Protection Agency website at http://www.epa.gov or the New Mexico Environment Department Web site at http://www.nmenv.state.nm.us. The preceding links will take you from the Intel Web site. Intel does not control the content on these Web sites.