DEP advisory to residents regarding WTC dust, Oct 2001

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document

New York City Department of Health Responds to the World Trade Center Disaster

FACT SHEET FOR RE-OCCUPANCY AND CLEANING HOMES Revised 01/25/02 The collapse of the World Trade Center (WTC) caused a large amount of dust, soot, ash, and other building materials to enter into some homes in the surrounding area. Because cleanup work continues at the site, dust can still be a concern for some residents. Dust can irritate your eyes, nose and throat. Dust can also cause coughing, shortness of breath and wheezing in some people. The following statements provide guidance to tenants and building owners on cleaning responsibilities and procedures. Building Owner Responsibilities In September, both the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Department of Health (DOH) advised building owners regarding building maintenance and re­ occupancy issues. The steps to be taken prior to re-occupying buildings included the cleaning of air circulation systems and water tanks as well as assessing building contamination for possible hazardous components, including asbestos. Building owners are responsible for the cleaning of building exteriors, grounds, and common indoor areas as well as the provision of general building services (e.g. heat, water, electric, gas, etc.). It should be pointed out that, due to changing conditions and continued activity at Ground Zero, building owners should periodically assess the condition of building exteriors and air conditioning systems for cleanliness and may have to periodically re-clean areas. Proper methods for cleaning should be followed.

The DOH urges building owners to discuss building related cleaning concerns with tenants. Building owners should provide residents with information concerning the steps that have been taken to ensure that the appropriate actions have been performed, including the results of any testing performed and the nature and extent of cleaning performed.

The DEP has determined that minimal dust accumulations (light coatings) can be cleaned using wet methods and/or vacuums equipped with high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. Some asbestos could be present in the light coatings of dust but the use of wet cleaning methods and HEPA vacuuming listed in this fact sheet will greatly minimize a person’s risk of exposure.

Large accumulations (completely covered or blanketed) of debris inside or outside will require assessment for possible asbestos content by a certified asbestos investigator prior to cleanup (http;//www.ci.nyc.ny.us/html/dep/html/airfirms.html#investigators). The DEP website provides detailed information concerning the steps required when asbestos containing material is suspected and/or present (http://www.ci.nyc.ny.us/html/dep/html/asbestos.html).

Tenant Responsibilities Many aspects of the general advisements issued in September also apply to tenants. Tenants are responsible for cleaning their own interior living spaces, including terraces, once any general and common building concerns which may interfere with interior living space cleanup have been

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