Ground Zero Impact Evaluation and Remediation

New York City, NY

Roux Associates was retained to provide technical management of a major contaminants cleanup at a high-rise apartment building within the World Trade Center impact area. Roux Associates deployed engineers and scientists to evaluate contaminated dusts that had entered the buildings occupied areas. Tasks completed by Roux Associates included:

• Building investigations and assessments
• Microbial sampling
• Evaluation of data and report preparation
• Recommendations for abatement
• Abatement oversight and management
• Evaluation of remediation costs

Various field-testing and laboratory analyses were completed to develop an understanding of conditions within the building. The testing included surface and air sampling for organics, metals, asbestos, non-viable microbial and viable microbial contamination. Contaminates identified included mold, dust, metals and asbestos. Microbial sampling was completed using culture swabs for surface sampling and Zefon Air-O-Cell impaction air sampling equipment. The physical inspection included visual observations throughout the interior and exterior of the building to identify indications of microbial growth. A moisture inspection was also completed using a Delmhurst BD-2100 digital moisture meter. As part of the project Roux Associates developed state-of-the-art remediation methods to decontaminate occupied apartments within an expedited time frame. Tasks included risk evaluation, designing control systems and the development of "first of the kind" preventive measures. Restoration activities included mechanical systems, common areas, elevator shafts and occupied residential space. Roux Associates also developed and implemented a public relations program for residents of the building.