TOMKINS COVE, N.Y. — A boiler explosion at a Rockland County power plant has raised concerns about whether residents in surrounding neighborhoods have been exposed to asbestos.
No asbestos was found in the first three air samples hazardous materials responders took away from the plant; however, traces of asbestos were discovered in other tests taken at the plant itself. Officials said these results might be the result of an asbestos-removal project conducted at the plant previously and not of the explosion. More tests will be taken.
One man was injured in the explosion; he suffered second-degree burns and was in stable condition. Sixteen workers were evacuated.
Source: Jim Fitzgerald, The Associated Press, May 17, 2001
