http://www.epa.gov/epahome/daily_activity_summary.htm
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Environmental Monitoring Near World Trade Center Disaster Site
Daily Report -- Wednesday, September 26
Most Recent Results (as of 6:30 p.m. 9/26):
Air: Fixed Monitors in New York City and New Jersey:
Asbestos - EPA analyzed 61 more samples for asbestos taken in and around ground zero. Two samples were marginally above the 70 structures per millimeter squared standard that EPA uses for re-entry into schools after asbestos removal activities.
Air: Non-Fixed Samples in New York City
Dioxin - Analysis of four air samples taken for dioxin on Sept. 16 showed all samples were at or above EPA's removal action guideline, which is based on a 30-year, 24-hour exposure risk scenario. However, there is no short-term exposure problem. These samples were captured at the plume still emanating from the fires within the World Trade Centers debris pile. We expect that these levels measured will only persist for a few weeks until the fires are extinguished. The air respirators EPA has provided for the recovery workers can prevent exposure to levels monitored at the site.
EPA took another round of air samples for dioxin on Sept. 23 and is awaiting results. EPA will take samples on Thursday, Sept. 27, depending on weather conditions, and will continue monitoring.
Metals -
Analysis of ten samples showed three elevated readings for lead and three for chromium. While these reading are considered elevated, they are not a short-term concern. The regulatory standards and guidelines for lead and chromium are based on long-term exposure. EPA will continue to monitor for these metals.
VOCs
Analysis of samples taken on Sept. 24 showed no detections for volatile organic compounds.
Air: Fresh Kills Landfill
Asbestos - Analysis of 32 samples for asbestos taken were all below the standard of 70 structures per square millimeter. The Fresh Kills Landfill receives the debris from the World Trade Center collapse.
Dust Samples
Asbestos - 11 dust samples taken on Sept. 23 for asbestos showed no readings for asbestos-containing material. These samples were taken around the perimeter of ground zero and at worker entry points to the area.
Ambient Water Sampling
Analysis of the sample taken from the runoff at the foot of Rector Street showed non-detect for PCBs. Sample results for asbestos, PAHs and PCBs taken on Sept. 20 from the Hudson and East Rivers also were non-detect.
EPA did additional round of ambient water sampling on Tuesday, September 25 following a rain storm.
Newtown Creek Sewage Treatment Plant
Analysis of samples taken for dioxin showed no elevated levels.
ONGOING ACTIVITY
Underground Storage Tanks - We have a report of eight underground storage tanks that contain oil. EPA has responsibility for pumping out the contents of these identified tanks. We are developing a plan for the pumping, which will be done as needed during debris removal efforts.
Washing Operations - EPA is working with city officials on a longer term plan to consolidate most of our wash stations into one central location. Workers will be transported to this center from various work points at ground zero before exiting the site. Some existing wash stations will remain, for example, at entry points to rest and food areas. EPA also is now responsible for operation of the wash stations at Fresh Kill Landfill.
Site Access Control Barrier - The city is constructing this barrier to control access to the site during future debris removal activities. A map of this barrier is in attached file.
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