Dust

The Inside Story of its Role in the September 11th Aftermath

By (author) Paul J. Lioy Foreword by Thomas H. Kean

Publication date:

16 March 2010

Length of book:

272 pages

Publisher

Rowman & Littlefield Publishers

ISBN-13: 9781442201484

One of the first scientists to take samples from Ground Zero after the destruction of the Twin Towers, Lioy shares his personal and professional perspectives on the World Trade Center dust. What was in the material that rained down after the disintegration of these buildings? Why did officials wrongly choose to focus on the release of asbestos? How did the size of the dust particles influence the development of the World Trade Center Cough among rescue workers and other New Yorkers? When were respirators used on site and what changes should be made to respirator design now? Dust answers these, and many other, questions about the environmental effects, public policy initiatives, health outcomes and scientific findings that played a critical role in the aftermath of September 11th. Beyond providing insightful analysis of what happened then, this book details the significant steps we need to take in order to better prepare for future catastrophes.

Foreword
When Life Changed
Collecting Dust at Ground Zero
Freeing the WTC Dust
Who is in Charge Here?
Timing is Everything
A Scientific Framework
The Presence of Lead (Pb)
What Was in that WTC Dust?
Into the Unknown: Exposure and Health
Talking and Writing: To What End?
WTC Dust Sticks Like Glue
Exposure Science in Future Catastrophes
Final Thoughts
Appendix A: Bibliography
Appendix B: Presentation of the detailed data set on the compounds measured in the WTC Dust Samples
Appendix C: Original Members of the WTC Panel
Appendix D: Comments on the WTC Signature Study and Peer Review

In Dust, Paul Lioy captures many watershed events following the attacks on September 11, 2001 through much of this decade. He does so in a way only a first-hand participant can. This is no ordinary journey. Dr. Lioy not only describes the events in vivid prose as only a impassioned New Yorker can, but also with the rigor of a world renowned researcher and seasoned educator. Dr. Lioy applies both sides of his brain to stitch a tapestry of emotion and reason, of reverence and objectivity, and of deconstruction and lessons learned. This important book is essential reading that will evoke discussion in the classroom, the boardroom and the living room, in the college seminar and in the church basement. Dr. Lioy's brilliant and eclectic career has prepared him for a book that reaches the scientist and the non-technical reader, alike. I hope and expect his insights and recommendations will be heeded.