The EPA and CDC are asking Gulf Coast residents to report any odors they suspect are from the BP oil spill. Both government organizations are concerned regarding the harmful health effects that may be present due to pollutants within the oil as well as those emitted from the burning of oil. According to the EPA’s report regarding the air quality index, levels of ozone and other particulate matter (particulate pollution) present in the air ranged from good to unhealthy for sensitive groups.
Hydrogen Sulfide has been detected in the Venice, Louisiana area and some residents may notice side effects. According to the EPA, the current levels of hydrogen sulfide detected in Louisiana and near Mobile, Alabama are reportedly not enough to cause severe or long lasting effects but could cause eye and throat irritation as well as headaches. You may detect hydrogen sulfide by its rotten egg smell. If you suspect you smell hydrogen sulfide you are asked to call and report it at: 1-866-448-5816. Hydrogen sulfide may also come naturally, through marshes and sewage treatment facilities. The EPA will monitor the levels of Hydrogen Sulfide and determine whether they are low or high.
The type of odor being detected by those on the Gulf Coast includes a rotten egg smell, a smell like a gas station, and an oily or tar like smell. Any odor that you smell indicates there are chemicals remaining in the weathered oil that is coming ashore.
A smell that resembles a gas station may be the result of toxic VOC or volatile organic compounds. The EPA continues to measure the levels of VOCs in the Gulf Coast. Even low levels of VOCs can result in eye, nose, throat and skin irritation. It may also prove problematic for those with asthma and other respiratory conditions.
An oily or tar like smell is said to come from semi-volatile organic compounds or SVOCs.
The EPA released a statement regarding air quality along the Gulf Coast. It reads as follows.
“EPA has observed odor-causing pollutants associated with oil on the shore in the gulf region at low levels. Some of these chemicals may cause short-lived effects like headache, eye, nose and throat irritation, or nausea. Some people may be able to smell several of these chemicals at levels well below those that would cause short-term health problems.
EPA is also conducting additional air monitoring for ozone and airborne particulate matter. The air monitoring conducted through July 12 has found levels of ozone and particulates ranging from the "good" to "unhealthy for sensitive groups" levels on EPA's Air Quality Index.”
You may report odors believed to be a result of the BP oil spill at 1-866-448-5816
Source: http://www.examiner.com/x-58009-Oil-Spill-Recovery-Examiner~y2010m7d14-Oil-Spill-EPA-and-CDC-asks-Gulf-Coast-residents-to-report-odors-on-coastline-live-video-chat?cid=channel-rss-News 
