|
HCET assisting in World Trade Center cleanup Deactivation and decommissioning engineers from FIU's Hemispheric Center for Environmental Technology (HCET) have responded to the call from Frank Hanley, general president of the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE), to support operating engineers involved with the cleanup of the World Trade Center site in Manhattan. HCET's engineers are collaborating with the IUOE in their efforts to support operating engineers working at "ground zero." The Southern West Virginia Emergency Response Unit of the IUOE National Hazmat Program, arrived at the site on September 18th to support the rescue and cleanup workers. The unit is providing industrial hygiene and safety expertise, personal protective equipment, and a 24-hour toll-free emergency response hotline with safety and health professionals. "Like all Americans, at FIU we are anxious to help in the recovery effort," said FIU President Modesto A. Maidique. "I can't think of a better way to support the efforts of Mr. Hanley and our partners in IUOE than by putting to work the expertise we have developed through years of research at FIU." The National Hazmat Program and the HCET team are helping to protect workers from asbestos, dust and other potential hazards that may be encountered as the small mountains of debris and rubble are moved away from the site. "I'm grateful that our team has the opportunity to help in the wake of this horrific tragedy," said Ali Ebadian, director of HCET. "With the long road that lies ahead for this project, the rescue and cleanup workers will face significant challenges. If we can help prevent any further injury or loss of life to those who have already displayed such selfless courage, our involvement will be well worth it." |
|