DEP advisory to residents regarding WTC dust, Oct 2001

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document SEP-25-e^l 03:13P FROM: TO:17185954544 P;4-'4

HTiat are the health ejfects of ashenos?

Destruction of the World Trade Center buildings released large amounts of dust and ash, some of which contained trace amounts of asbestos. Based on the asbestos test results received thus far, the general public’s risk for any short nr long term ad\’crse health affect.? are very low. Residents who live near the affected area are not at risk of developing asbestos-related illness following the collapse of the World Trade Center buildings.

In general, asbestos-related lung disease general results only Irom intense asbestos exposure experienced over a period of many years, primarily as a consequence of occupational exposures The risk of developing an asbestos-related illness following an exposure of short duration is very low.

VThat measures are being taken to protect the rescue workers?

Rescue workers have been equipped with half-face masks, goggles, and protective clothing to reduce their exposure to dust and uditr particulate matter while working in tlie blast zone.

How can I clean up dusts in or near my home or office?

The best ..ay tu remc ve dust is to use a wei rag or wet mop. .Sweeping with a dry broom is not leei' iii-.ended because it can make dust airborne again. Dirt\' rags should be put in plastic bags wruir riiey are .still vet and bag.s should be sealed and discarded (doth rags can be washed, see instructions below). Rags should no: be allowed to dry out before bagging and disposal or washing. Becau .e the dust particles are so small, standard vacuuming is not an efficient way to remove the dust. High efficiency vacuums, which are now widely available in stores, should be used to rctiiov e dust. Carpets and upholstery can be shampooed, then vacuumed.

Persc.ii should shower to rinse off any dust from hair and skin. Dusty' clothes should be washed sepaiutel) from other clothing. Pets can be washed -with running water from a hose or faucet; their paws should be wiped to avoid tracking dust inside the home. To clean plants, rinse leaves ith water. Hirew ayvay any food that may have been contaminated u ith dust. Food m cans, jars or conUuicrs with tight-fitting lids do nor need to be discarded. However, if there is dust present on the exterior of vacuum-sealed food containers, just wash the can or jar with wate r and wipe it clean. If in doubt, throw ft out

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

Do pregnant women and young children need to take additional precautions?

No. Pregnant women and young children do not need to take additional precautions

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