WTC emergency safety plan draft, Sept 2001

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document

DUST PROTECTION AND SUPPRESSION PLAN

1. INTRODUCTION The World Trade Center disaster generated a tremendous amount of debris and dust in the . “ground zero” area that may contain contaminants (e.g., asbestos).’During search/rescue, demolition, and cleanup activities currently underway, the potential exists to contaminate search/rescue personnel and cleanup workers and spread contaminated materials into other areas. The purpose of this plan is to provide guidance and recommendations for protecting all personnel working in the “ground zero” area and minimizing the spread of dust during debris/dust removal, loading, and transport to disposal sites. 2. PERSONAL PROTECTION Search/rescue, demolition, and cleanup personnel working on rubble piles at “ground zero” and in adjacent areas with large amounts of debris and dust (hereinafter termed “work areas”) should follow the personal protective measures identified below. 2.1 While in the Work Area Personnel in work areas should use the following personal protective measures to help protect themselves from potential dust hazards; • Respiratory protection - Everyone who will perform work on/in, suspended above, or within 25 ft of the rubble pile must use a half-face re-usable respirator with combination Pl00 (or equivalent)/ organic vapor acid gas (OVAG) cartridges. - All others within the “green line” and not categorized above must use Pl00 (or equivalent) cartridges. In areas with odors, combination PlOO/organic vapor (OV) cartridges may be used. - Persons outside of the “green line” are encouraged to wear disposable N95 (or equivalent) dust masks if dusty or smoky conditions exist. • Head covering (hard hat) • Safety glasses (Z87) with side shields or mono-goggles •, Work gloves (with latex or nitrile glove liners if handling remains) • Long pants, long sleeve work shirts, or coveralls • Steel-toed work boots • If available, disposable outer protective clothing when working on the rubble pile • Exit the work area if any of the above personal protective measures are damaged or do not function properly and make necessary repairs before re-entering work area. • Avoid eating in work area. 2.2 Leaving the Work Area: When personnel leave the work area, they should do the following to prevent spreading dust outside the work area: • Exit work area through designated routes. • Clean or scrape off shoes, preferably with water. • If wearing disposable outer protective clothing, dispose of clothing in designated container. • Thoroughly dust off clothing. If available, use HEPA vacuum. • Clean personal protective equipment (e.g., respirator, goggles). • At end of shift, replace respirator cartridges. • Wash face and hands with soapy water.

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