Q&A and FAQ regarding WTC response, Oct 2001

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document

3)WilI you clean apartments outside of Lower Manhattan? If not, why not? This program is currently limited to lower Manhattan because the data we have indicates that the most significant impacts from debris/dust from the collapse and the fires occurred here. For those in other areas that feel they had significant impacts, please call the hotline and provide information. We will consider the requests in light of our analysis of impacts of this tragedy.

4) When you clean apartments, will you replace or clean personal belongings, drapes, carpets or furniture? We expect to be cleaning residential spaces that have already been cleaned and where residents have returned to their living quarters. For the most part, personal belongings will have already been cleaned at least once. The contractors will evaluate the need to clean them on a case by case basis. We will clean all hard surfaces, carpets, drapes and upholstered furnishings. f**Need to confirm with NYCDEPi,

5) What will you test for in the apartments you clean? Will you test for dioxin and lead and substances other than asbestos? If not, why not? We will test for asbestos in air. This is the substance of greatest concern, and air is the pathway of exposure. By cleaning the dust, other substances will also be removed.

Our scientists will continue their current work on a list of other substances associated with the WTC collapse. The list includes asbestos, fibrous glass, dioxin,__ (need list of things we are looking at)___ . These scientists and technical experts are evaluating whether there is reason to be concerned about other compounds in indoor environments. If they conclude that other substances might pose a significant risk, the scientists will determine if any refinement to cleanup guidance is needed. The list and any proposed benchmarks for substances on the list will be peer reviewed by independent scientists.

6) What standard and analytical technique is EPA using to determine if homes are clean after they are cleaned or if a resident requests testing only? EPA will use

7) Why just test the air in apartments that you clean and test? Isn’t it true that dust can be settled somewhere when the tests are taken, but might be stirred up at a later time - thus potentially exposing the person to asbestos? Asbestos is clearly the most significant substance of concern on a continuing basis. Fortunately, scientific protocols are already in place for how to conduct the testing and how to evaluate the results. Since our plan also offers ways to clean up the dust, we can remove as much as possible and offer the ongoing support of a HEPA vacuum. The test methods for accurately and consistently evaluating asbestos in dust are not in place. Scientists and technical experts are still debating these.

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