A steam main (steam pipe) began leaking and spewing asbestos in New York City last week. The incident contaminated the air in a section of Manhattan’s Upper East Side.
According to ABC7 New York, the leak occurred through a manhole on Park Avenue between East 69th and 70th streets. Asbestos was detected in debris spewing from the leak. City officials asked residents to close their windows due to the hazard of asbestos in the air.
Asbestos in Steam Pipes
Steam mains, or pipes, transfer steam from a boiler to where the steam is needed. To protect other utilities or pipes, steam pipes are usually buried multiple feet underground and encased in concrete. When there are leaks, asbestos debris can spew above ground through manholes, sewer drains or construction sites.
Asbestos can absorb heat, which is why it was selected to line steam pipes. Unfortunately, asbestos is a dangerous mineral capable of causing cancers such as mesothelioma and lung cancer.
History of Asbestos Contamination in New York City
Asbestos contamination in New York City occurred from the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. The World Trade Centers were built with asbestos, and they released thousands of tons of the substance when they fell. This event contaminated the air in Manhattan for weeks.
Asbestos contamination usually happens inside of buildings or other structures, such as homes, office buildings or schools. Asbestos was used to build siding, floor tiles, ceiling tiles and more. It also insulated electrical wires. Asbestos also was used to line automobile brakes and gaskets.
ABC7 New York reports the steam main leak was cleaned up and the area is again safe for residents. If there’s any public asbestos contamination, it is recommended to avoid commuting to the area or, if already in the area, stay indoors.
Visit Mesothelioma Guide’s Everytown USA page to see a list of common places in towns that may contain asbestos.
Sources & Author
- Crews finish cleaning up steam main leak that spewed asbestos in air on Upper East Side. ABC7 New York. Retrieved from: https://abc7ny.com/post/steam-leak-spews-asbestos-impacts-traffic-upper-east-sides-park-avenue/15131666/. Accessed: 08/06/2024.
Sources & Author
