Health and Safety Near Demolition Areas

Overview

At this time, the City of St. Louis is contracting emergency demolitions only - these are collapsing or collapsed buildings that are a threat to adjacent homes and businesses, as a result of the May 16 tornado. Although the area will be safer once the compromised buildings are down, there are some health impacts to be aware of during the demolition phase.

Stay Out of Demolition Areas

• Stay as far away from the demolition site as possible. 
• Do not pass barricades or fences set up for your protection.
• Do not walk or stand near construction equipment or vehicles.
• Do not handle debris from downed buildings.
• Wear earplugs or ear protection if you are near the demo site.

In addition to the physical debris, you should stay clear of demolition zones to reduce your exposure to dust and other airborne particles, which may contain hazardous materials like asbestos or chemical contaminants. These particles can worsen health conditions such as asthma, COPD, or other breathing difficulties, and asbestos particles are known to potentially cause cancer even in small concentrations.

Be Aware of Potential Contaminants

• Asbestos and Lead: Older buildings may contain hazardous materials like asbestos and lead, which can be released into the air during demolition. 
• Water contaminants: Avoid contact with demolition debris; DO NOT inhale dust particles or water vapors.
• Other Hazards: Potential hazards such as mold, bacteria, or chemicals may be present in demolition debris. 

Minimize Your Exposure to Dust and Particles

• Close doors and windows to prevent dust from entering your home or building.
• Clean your indoor spaces to remove any settled dust, using a vacuum cleaner if possible.
• Limit time outdoors during demo periods, especially if it is windy.
• The use of a NIOSH-approved N100, P100, or R100 respirator is recommended to minimize exposure to airborne hazardous materials if you are near a demolition site.
• Use a H14 HEPA filter in your air conditioner and replace it more often than usual.

What the City is Doing to Protect Public Health and Safety During Demolitions

• To reduce the spread of dust generated by demolition activities, buildings are soaked prior to any work (6-10 hours before wrecking activities begin), and during any activities that generate dust.
• Filters are placed in storm drains that may collect water used on site, and disposed of separately, to prevent potential contamination of the combined sewer system.
• A certified asbestos-abatement supervisor is required to be on-site at any time that material is being handled and hauled.
• Any trucks containing potential asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are lined and covered, and ACMs are disposed of in licensed facilities.
• Call the Citizens’ Service Bureau (CSB) at 311 or 314-622-4800 if you see dust generated and no or low water suppression.