EPA Tests Sites for Hazardous Materials Exposure

Danielle Jackson

New York and Washington, D.C. -- At the request of the New York City Department of Health, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have been at the World Trade Center monitoring exposure to potentially contaminated dust and debris.

Monitoring and sampling conducted on Tuesday and Wednesday show either no levels of lead, asbestos and volatile organic compounds, or very low levels. And EPA administrator Christie Whitman has reassured the public that there appears to be no significant levels in the city.

The EPA also is conducting downwind sampling for potential chemical and asbestos releases from the World Trade Center debris site and has deployed several experts and testers to the Pentagon.

OSHA also is working with Consolidated Edison (Con Edison) regarding safety standards for workers who are digging trenches because of leaking gas lines underground.