An asbestos-contaminated area covering 1.75 acres along Southside Road in Frankfort, New York was discovered accidentally by EPA employees driving the road who witnessed trucks dumping construction debris. Testing showed asbestos in the soil and construction debris. EPA crews have covered up the contaminated soil and fenced the contaminated area as an interim measure to reduce the risk to public health. Asbestos-contaminated debris is piled up to 20 feet high and covers about 50,000 square feet. The asbestos discovered in Frankfort is believed to be “friable,” or easily crumbled and released into the air. Asbestos in the air can be easily inhaled and cause asbestos-related diseases like malignant mesothelioma. The EPA is pursuing legal action against the parties responsible for dumping the contaminated waste, and only after court proceedings are complete will a permanent cleanup be approved. The EPA has paid for the interim cleanup, but they are seeking reimbursement from the responsible parties, as well as funding for a permanent cleanup of the area.
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