spectra-physics, inc.

1250 W MIDDLEFIELD RD

The 11½-acre Spectra-Physics, Inc., site has been the location of a manufacturer of electronic equipment and gas lasers since 1961. Beginning in 1981, Spectra-Physics, Inc. stored its hazardous wastes on bermed concrete pads. Only one storage area has a cement floor without a berm, and that area is used for storing solid wastes. A variety of cleaners, degreasers, and lubricants are used in the manufacturing process. Wastes from manufacturing processes include volatile organic compounds (VOCs), paints, oils, acids, and bases. In 1981, the State discovered areas where hazardous wastes were stored that had no dikes or leachate collection systems. Additionally, several on-site wastewater sumps are suspected of contributing VOCs to the soils and groundwater. Contaminated groundwater from the site has moved off site to the north and merged with the contaminated plume of another NPL site, the Teledyne Semiconductor, Inc. site, which borders the Spectra-Physics, Inc. site. The two firms are jointly cleaning up the sites. Approximately 189,000 people live within a 3-mile radius of the site. The closest residence is located 200 feet southwest of the site. San Francisco Bay is 2½ miles downstream of the site and is used for recreation. The tides that influence the Bay also influence Permanente Creek, which is within 1 mile of the site. Several species of endangered birds are found within the area of tidal influence.

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