NYC-WTC_000232898

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document

This aspect deals with how facility owners and managers deal with lAQ risk issues once identified. In general, risk management is a process that encompasses:

• Anticipation of hazards; • Recognition of hazardous conditions; • Evaluation of hazards; • Control of hazards; and • Follow-up and periodic reevaluation.

Emergency Management

The first decision that must be made in dealing with an lAQ problem is whether the problem requires an emergency response. Most lAQ problems can be diagnosed and resolved on a short­ term, and in some cases even a long-term, basis without the need to undertake “emergency actions.” But some lAQ incidents require an immediate response. Some examples might include:

• High carbon monoxide levels due to a malfunctioning heating system; • A toxic chemical spill; or • Biological contamination such as Legionella or Stachybotrus.

The challenge is to know how to recognize just such a situation and take the appropriate level of response. In recent years, there has been a trend toward evacuations when non-specific odors or illnesses are reported. Such over reactions only lead to greater occupant fear, distrust of management when problems are not identified or solutions not found and misunderstanding. Risk communication activities can be compromised. The key is to have a plan that lays out the specific criteria for various levels of response up to and including evacuation. Such a plan should be actively communicated to occupants and reviewed and revised regularly.

CITY_21MC100_002984709

NYC-WTC_000232901