October 2009 Explosion at Syracuse, New York School Causes Asbestos Contamination in Building

October 8, 2009 explosion at Syracuse, New York private school causes asbestos to be released in the area. Exposure to the dangerous cancer-causing mineral is known to cause serious illnesses such as mesothelioma cancer, asbestos-related lung cancer and asbestosis many decades after first exposure.

On October 18, 2009, the upstate New York news website Syracuse.com reported that a private religious school in the area damaged in an October 8th explosion remains closed after concerns that the blast caused asbestos to be released in the building and surrounding areas.

The explosion, which occurred in an unused section of the building’s basement, caused asbestos dust, natural gas and other potential toxins to be released.

Since the school is affiliated with an area Muslim mosque and considered a place of worship, the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATFE) were involved in the Syracuse Police Department and Fire Department investigation.

While the investigation is still ongoing and forensic evaluation of site debris is being conducted, the Fire Department issued a statement on October 17th stating the explosion was determined to be accidental in nature and possibly caused by faulty equipment.

Asbestos Abatement Plans Stalled Until Investigation is Concluded
While school leadership has been working with their property insurance carrier with regard to repairs, they will not be able to conduct asbestos abatement until the investigation is concluded.

When the school administration is permitted to begin asbestos abatement at the site, they will need to hire a professional asbestos contractor to perform the work in accordance with New York State and federal guidelines.

All property owners, including those who own private homes or residential complexes, are required to follow these regulations for the removal and disposal of asbestos-containing materials (ACM). For information about asbestos removal in New York, click here.

Weitz & Luxenberg Can Help Families Affected by Asbestos Disease
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, we may be able to help you to seek justice for your illness and file a lawsuit on your behalf.

Please complete the form on this page for a free and confidential review of your potential asbestos lawsuit or request a free copy of our asbestos sourcebook.

A Weitz & Luxenberg representative will contact you as soon as possible.