Building access and status FAQ, September 15, 2001

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document

Because some asbestos was used in the building of the World Trade Center, City, State, and Federal agencies have been collecting dust, debris, and air samples since the World Trade Center collapse. As expected, some asbestos was found in a few of the dust and debris samples taken from the blast site and als working in this area have been advised to take precautions. However, most of the air samples taken have been below levels of concern. Based on the asbestos test results received thus fer, there are no significant health rides to occupants in the affected area or to the general public

Ill general, asbestos-related lung disease results only from intense asbestos exposure experienced over a period of many years, primarily as a consequence of occupational exposures. The risk of developing an asbestos-related illn^ following an exposure of short duration, even to hi^ levels, is extremely low.

JVhat should I do wth food l^ in apartment?

The power outage in much of lower Manhattan may have caused refrigerated and frozen food to spoil. Raw or cooked meat, poultry and seafood, milk and milk-containing products, eggs, mayonnaise and creamy dressings, and cooked foods should be thrown out if power was out for two or more hours. Frozen foods that have thawed should be thrown away. Do not re-freeze thawed food.

Throw away ariy food that may have been contaminated with dust, except for food in cans, jars, or containers with tight-fitting lids. Washcansandjars with water and wipe it cleaiL When it comes to food left in your building,//■/« doubt, throw it out.

How should I dean Ae dud ui apartment when I move back in?

The best way to remove dust is to use a wet rag or wet mop. Sweeping with a dry broom is not recommended because it can make dust airborne agam Where dust is thick, you can directly wet the dust with water, and remove it with wet rags and mops. Dirty rags can be rinsed under rurming water, being careful to not leave dust in the sink to dry. When done, used rags and mops should be put in plastic bags while they are still wet andbags should be sealed and discarded. Cloth rags should be washed separately from other laundry. Wash heavily soiled or dusty clothing or linens twice. Remove lint fiom washing machines and filters in the dryers with each laundry load. Rags should not be allowed to dry out before bagging and disposal or washing.

To reduce dust recirculation, the Health Department recommends using HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filtration vacuums when cleaning up apartments, if possible. If a HEPA vacuum is not available, it is recommended that either HEPA bags or dust allergen bags be used with your regular vacuum If these options are not available, wetting down the dust and removing it as described above is recommended.

Carpets and upholstery can be shampooed and then vacuumed.

If your apartment is very dusty, you should wash or HEPA vacuum yoiir curtains. If curtains need to be taken down, take them down slowly to keep dust fiom circulating in the air. To clean plants, rinse leaves with water. Pets can be washed with nmning water fiom a hose or faucet; their paws should be wiped to avoid tracking dust inside the home.

How can I remove dudfrom the au-?

Air purifiers may help reduce indoor dust levels. HEPA air purifiers are superior to other models in filtering the smallest particles. Air purifiers are ordy useful for removing dust from the air. They will not remove dust already deposited on floors, shelves, upholstery or mgs. Keep windows closed when using an air purifier.

Additional recommendations include:

Keep outdoor dust from entering the home; Keep windows closed; Set the air conditioner to re-circulate air (closed vents), and dean or change tire filter frequently; Remove shoes before entering the home for several days (once you first make sure there is no broken glass) Avoid sweeping or other outdoor maintenance.

For more information, call the Health Department’s General Information Line at (212) 213 -1844 or visit our website at nyc.gov/health.

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