Site control plan table of contents, undated

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document

Staten Island Landfill Debris Disposal Operation Health and Safety Program

4.3.2 Silica Dust and Particulate Matter Not Otherwise Specified

Silica dust created by the pulverization of construction material presents a potential inhalation hazard to workers involved in the transfer and handling of debris.

Particulate mater not otherwise specified (NOS) includes non-silica containing dust, as well as general airborne particles. The primary source of this material will be from debris being handled as a part of the project process. Furthermore, the ambient environment may contribute to potential worker exposure to this agent.

4.3.3 Landfill Chemical Agents

The following section (shown in Italics) was taken directly from the January 30,1999, Operations and Maintenance Plan, Fresh Kills Landfill, Volume D, Health and Safety Plan prepared by Roy F. Weston of New York, Inc.:

A variety of gases are generated by the decomposition of waste in a landfill. The specific compounds are determined by the types of material at the landfill and the soil or treatment conditions, etc. During routine operations, the greatest potential exposure for workers is to gases and those compounds that volatilize and become airborne.

Gases and vapors that may be encountered at a landfill include the followng:

Methane - a colorless, odorless, flammable gas that in high enough concentrations acts as a simple asphyxiant (i.e. displaces oxygen). Combustible gas indicators, which are also sensitive to methane, are located in many NYCDOS structures to monitor this potentially life-threatening gas.

Hydrogen Sulfide - A colorless, flammable gas with a characteristic rotten egg odor. This odor, however, is only noticeable at low concentrations. Prolonged exposure can cause olfactory fatigue, thereby creating a false sense of security because the gas can no longer be detected by snell.

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