Q&A and FAQ regarding WTC response, Oct 2001

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document

Department of Environmental Protection Asbestos Control Program

Exterior Building Surveys Q & A What actions have been taken to address the clean up of building exteriors since September 11,2001?

During October and November 2001, DEP went door to door and provided copies of information for re-occupancy to building owners/managers. The information outlined actions to be taken for assessments, for appropriate clean up procedures, and provided information on reaching the DEP for assistance. The hours for providing technical assistance were expanded to provide additional guidance and staff was available to provide on site technical assistance upon request.

The DEP with assistance from representatives of the NYS DOL and US EPA performed follow­ up site visits at buildings in the vicinity of the World Trade Center during late January and February 2002. The surveys included the examination of building exteriors including building roofs, facades, setbacks, and other exterior surfaces. These surveys identified locations where debris from the collapse of the WTC was still visible.

How were buildings selected for the exterior survey? What buildings were included in the exterior surveys?

All buildings in the vicinity of the WTC were included in the survey. The surveys were performed at all buildings north of Battery Place, south of Chambers Street, east of the Hudson River, and west of Pearl Street. Buildings on both sides of Beaver Street and Chambers Street were included.

What were the results of the surveys?

The surveys disclosed the presence of various amounts of debris with various dispersal patterns at the building exteriors. The majority of buildings had isolated areas of debris specifically at the perimeter of the roofs, at the base of parapet walls, and in gutters. Debris was also visible at horizontal surfaces on some of the building facades including awnings. For some buildings, building facades facing the street were cleaned while the facades at the rear remained dirty.

The observed debris was characteristic of the debris from the impact of September 11, 2001. The debris appears to have reformed into a dense mass (caked).

How many buildings were identifled as requiring clean up actions?

Approximately 211 buildings were identified as requiring clean up of the roof and/ or other exterior building surfaces, and approximately 107 buildings were identified as requiring only facade clean up. 3

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