Memo 402: Lower Manhattan Particulate Summary & Ambient Toxicity
Origin: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 2 • Emergency Response Branch
"27 of 777 Lower Manhattan air samples exceed AHERA asbestos safety levels; bulk debris samples show up to 4% chrysotile asbestos. Benzene levels at debris perimeter exceed OSHA Permissible Exposure Limits (PEL)."
Ref: EPA WTC Sampling Log Doc #01-402, Bates NYC-004812
"The air is safe to breathe and their water is safe to drink... We have not seen any reason — any readings that have indicated any health hazard."
Ref: EPA Official Public Press Release, Sept 18 & Oct 2001
Air Particulate & Toxicological Measurements (Sampling Record)
Source: Testing Sites near West & Fulton St
Investigative Analysis:
Disclosed testing manifests show persistent particulate spikes and localized benzene concentrations directly contradicting blanket assurances provided to returning Lower Manhattan workers, residents, and recovery crews.