Danger of airborne dust from building collapse in Bari

Local media outlets are reporting that the mayor of Bari, Vito Leccese, has issued an order for residents in the areas adjacent to the recently collapsed building to adopt preventive measures. The objective is to minimise the risks posed to the public by potential exposure to airborne dust during the demolition phase of the remaining structure. This measure includes prohibitions against looking out, maintaining open windows, and wearing masks in external areas surrounding the site until further notice is given that activities are to be resumed. Although the air quality monitoring carried out by the Environmental Protection Agency (ARPA Puglia) has not detected airborne asbestos fibers, a mobile laboratory will continuously monitor the area throughout this work phase in order to ensure that harmful dust does not endanger public health. Should monitoring efforts reveal the presence of asbestos fibre cement elements, environmental remediation measures will be implemented in accordance with protocols designed to mitigate the dispersal of potentially harmful dust particles into the surrounding environment and public health.