EPA Indoor Air Approach Request to FEMA, May 2, 2002

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document

Create a Data system for Organizing Existing Information Collected by NYC from the Private Sector on environmental testing results and clean up activity .

Timing of the Longer Term Actions: Initial Actions have been initiated by agency staffs. Actions listed here could begin by June 1 and continue through February 2003. These several steps are needed, including peer review, since there are no widely accepted indoor air benchmarks for the potential compounds of concern, and there is not a good data base for understanding the “background” levels of the compounds which were in the NYC urban environment prior to 9/11.

1. Sampling to Determine Background Levels of Potential Contaminants

Objective: Establish a NYC specific quantitative data set which will enable a better evaluation of pre- 9/11 conditions likely to have existed in Lower Manhattan. This will assist in future evaluation of whether any further clean up advice or action will be necessary. Program: EPA will sample residences in areas of NYC unaffected by WTC-related debris to establish what may be considered pre-existing levels of potential compounds of concern. This sampling will occur in areas determined appropriate based upon improbability of any impacts from the WTC collapse and fire. This will assist EPA, ATSDR NYSDOH and NYCDOH in evaluating how the potential compounds of concern from the WTC disaster relate to pre-existing conditions. NYCDOH will obtain access agreements and prepare notifications to residents. Potential indicators of concern will be identified and air and debris/dust samples will be taken and analyzed for these compounds. Projected Cost: $1.3 million

2. Creating a Data System with Existing Information Collected by NYC from the Private Sector on Environmental Testing Results and Clean Up Activity

Objective: Organize private sector data submitted into a user friendly data system which will allow for a maximum amount of data to be considered in informing the public and in evaluating effectiveness and protectiveness of cleaning techniques and the potential for any increased long term risk to the public posed by indoor environments by the appropriate health agencies. Program: NYC has received information on clean up actions and air monitoring from the building owners of a significant portion of the buildings in Lower Manhattan. Other information may also be available on building status. Making all such data available in an organized and readily accessible way will enhance ability to assess potential concerns related to indoor air environment. Projected cost: $500,000 has been discussed. NYC presently developing project specifics and cost estimate.

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