Health and environment document revision, August 2002

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document

AIR QUALITY This section examines concerns you may have about air quality, provides tips for improving your indoor air environment, and lists resources for assistance and reimbursement.

This section will be continuously updated.

Menu Tips for Improving Indoor Air Quality Important Nurnbers

Tips for Improving Indoor Air Quality [THIS SHOULD BE A TEXT BOX]

• Clean frequently to reduce dust o Use wet/damp cloth or wet/damp mop to clean surfaces. o Use high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter vacuums to clean dust from carpets, upholstery, and other materials that caimot be cleaned by wet wiping. HEPA filter vacuums are available at many department stores, appliance stores, and vacuum specialty stores, and will be reimbursed by FEMA (caU 1-800-462-9029). o Do not use dusters or vacuums without an approved HEPA filter. o Do not sweep with “dry” brooms. o [Insert info, on professional cleaners especially for furniture and draperies. Question for DEP and Liz Berger]

• Dispose of materials properly o Place used items in plastic bags while wet, and then dispose of them in trash. [Handling dry dirty cloths/mops can reintroduce dust in the air.] o Dispose of wash-water used for cleaning in the sink or toilet. o Cloths and mops can be reused or disposed after use. If reused, dirty mop heads and cleaning cloths should be washed separately from regular laundry.

• Avoid carrying dust into your building from outdoors

• Protect yourself while cleaning o Wear rubber gloves or work gloves. o Wash hands after cleaning, before eating, drinking, smoking, and using the bathroom. o Consider removing contact lenses prior to cleanup.

• Clean outdoor surfaces o Use a HEPA filter vacuum to clean outdoor surfaces with small accumulations of dust, or wet wipe if surface type allows.

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