NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document
DRAFT
ASBESTOS
FACT SHEET
In an effort to assist the general public witli questions concerning Asbestos, this fact is being issued
by the New York City Department of Health (DOH), in conjunction with the New York State
Department of Health (NYSDOH), the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR), and other federal agencies.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals mined for their insulation, friction, and
fire resistant properties. They were used in over 3,000 different products to include; brake linings,
asbestos cement pipe, building materials, and insulation. Most asbestos containing products have
now been replaced by less toxic materials. However, due to the extensive use of asbestos,
particularly in break linings and building products, asbestos fibers are still present in the soil, air, and
indoor environments. The World Trade Center, which was constructed prior to the early 197O's, still
contained asbestos containing materials.
Has Asbestos been detected?
Since asbestos was used in building the World Trade Center, City, State, and Federal agencies have
been collecting dust, debris, and air samples since the collapse. Some asbestos was found in a few
of the dust and debris samples taken from the blast site and individuals working in this area have
been advised to take precautions.
However, most of the air samples taken have been below levels of concern. Based on the asbestos
test results received thus far, there are no significant health risks to occupants in the affected area or
to the general public.
What are the health effects of asbestos?
Asbestos exposure (which can cause asbestos-related lung disease) becomes a health concern when
high concentrations of asbestos fibers are inhaled over a long period of time. Asbestos-related lung
disease results only from intense asbestos exposure, primarily as a consequence of occupational
exposures. Miners and other workers who inhaled high concentrations of the asbestos fibers later
developed diseases such as lung cancer, mesothelioma (cancer of the thin membrane that surrounds
the lung), and asbestobL (scarring of the lungs). The risk of developing an asbestos-related illness
following an exposure ofshort duration, even to high levels, is extremely low.
NYC-WTC_000153317
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