January 28th, 2008

A site containing asbestos is now under investigation by the Environmental Protection Agency. The New York lot holds construction debris that was later found to contain concerning amounts of asbestos.

The Environmental Protection Agency has covered a site in Frankfort, New York with a temporary tarp after debris on the site was found to contain asbestos. The owner of the New York lot told EPA investigators that he had six tons of construction debris shipped in from a site in New Jersey and which came to rest in the spot. The EPA is investigating and admitted that so much debris could pose a public health concern, which is why they covered the lot with a tarp.

Removing and disposing of asbestos improperly, such as that at the Frankfort site, can lead to asbestos exposure. When asbestos is not properly contained and disposed of, it can break into airborne particles, which can be ingested by the public. When asbestos has been inhaled, it can lead to mesothelioma, a type of deadly lung cancer. Mesothelioma is the result of asbestos fibers settling in the lungs, where it keeps tissue from absorbing oxygen. The EPA is continuing its investigation, and has yet to fine the owner of the lot.