DEP advisory to residents regarding WTC dust, Oct 2001

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

NEAL L. COHEN, M.D. SANDRA MULUN Commissioner Aiiociate Commissioner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: SANDRA MULLIN/GREG BUTLER Sunday, September 16,2001 (212) 447-8232* (917) 578-6208

IN RESPONSE TO THE WORLD TRADE CENTER DISASTER, NEW YORK CITY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH PROVIDES HEALTH AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND CONDUCTS ESSENTIAL PUBLIC HEALTH ACITVITIES

Working closely with City, State and Federal agencies since September 11, the New York City Department of Health has been conducting several public health activities in response to the World Trade Center disaster. Foremost among these are monitoring air quality in the general vicinity ofthe World Trade Center, working with other agencies to ensure that worker safety measures for search and rescue workers are in place, conducting surveillance for illnesses and injuries at New York City Hospitals, and mobilizing environmental investigation teams to ensure the safety of the food and water supplies.

Monitoring Air Quality and Respiratory Issues While excavation continues at the ate, the Health Department has been monitoring the air quality tests being conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Tests are ongoing but thus far, tests have shown asbestos levels that are below the threshold of concern. Nonetheless, workers who are involved in the recovery mission have been equipped with half-face masks and goggles, as well as protective clothing, to reduce exposure to any particulate matter including dust. Based on the asbestos test results received thus far, the general public’s risk for any short or long term adverse health effects are very low. A fact sheet detailing DOH recommendations can be found on the DOH website at nyc.gov/health.

The Health Department has produced a Public Health Advisory for residents and people returning to work in the nearby area. Residents and workers are advised to guard against dust and soot which can cause respiratory symptoms and eye and throat irritation. Residents in the immediate area are advised to keep windows closed and to avoid strenuous outdoor activity in the area affected. A fact sheet detailing DOH recommendations can be found on the DOH website at nyc.gov/health.

Medical Surveillance The New York City Department of Health is monitoring several medical issues throughout the City. - - More - -

*The Main Office of the NYC DOH has been temporarily relocated to 455 1st Avenue.

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