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  • What is defined as a structure (home or place of business)?

    While generally defined as a building, a structure under the structural cleaning program will include only those habitable spaces where indoor occupancy is frequent and regularly occurring on a daily or near-daily basis. Examples of residential structures include primary residences and living spaces, and examples of commercial structures include offices…

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  • Why is cleaning of homes and places of businesses happening?

    Norfolk Southern, with EPA oversight, is providing indoor cleaning to eligible occupants in response to concerns about the impact of the derailment and cleanup work on homes and places of businesses. The cleaning is to address potential dust that may have been generated as part of the train derailment and…

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  • What work still needs to be done at the derailment site?

    Although contaminated soil has been excavated and removed from the derailment site, some additional work remains. Soil sampling continues to check all areas where cleanup operations took place. Stream assessments continue, and culvert clean out has started. Groundwater and drinking water sampling also continues. Expect these investigations and possible additional…

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  • Does this mean my home or place of business is contaminated?

    No. However, indoor cleaning is being offered to address potential dust emissions that may have been generated as part of the train derailment and cleanup work. This service is being offered as an additional service to interested members of the community.

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  • What should I do with my pets during cleaning?

    Pets (dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, etc.) cannot remain in the home during cleaning. You will need to make arrangements for your pets. We recommend first speaking with your neighbors, friends, and relatives, who may be able to care for your pets during the cleaning. If this option is not available…

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  • I have kids who are on a strict nap schedule. Will someone pay for childcare?

    We recommend first speaking with your neighbors, friends, and relatives, who may be able to help while you are away during the cleaning. If this option is not available, residents can contact the Norfolk Southern Family Assistance Center for alternative options.

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  • Is formaldehyde a contaminant of concern from the derailment?

    Last week, an East Palestine resident reported to EPA that they had a skin reaction from handling soil in their backyard after digging a swimming pool. EPA tested the soil and did not detect high hazard chemicals. The device used for testing did indicate that low levels of formaldehyde might…

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  • Why are you cleaning homes and places of business?

    Since the derailment, property owners and renters have voiced concerns about the impact of the derailment and cleanup work on their homes and place of business. In response, Norfolk Southern, with EPA oversight, is providing indoor cleaning to interested, eligible occupants.

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  • I’m not concerned about dust. What about chemicals that may have been released by the event or the cleanup?

    The air and soil in and around the community has been monitored and sampled, and results confirm our confidence that the air and soil in East Palestine and surrounding communities, including inside homes, is not a concern for incident specific chemicals. While community testing conducted to date has not indicated…

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