Updated on 7.20.2017 7 p.m.

The EPA reported Thursday (July 20, 2017) that an air monitoring network set up around the site of the Clemens House fire did not detect the presence of any airborne asbestos in the first full day of the air monitoring program.

The agency added additional air monitoring stations on Thursday and will continue testing throughout the week.

The results of those tests will determine the next steps.

Until more information is available, the EPA advises residents to avoid touching, picking up or moving any debris that may have come from the fire.

Residents are further advised not to track the dust and debris into homes, take shoes off before entering homes and wash hands frequently.

If residents have further questions or concerns about the asbestos testing, please call the City's Department of Health at 314-657-1492.

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Updated on 7.19.2017 7 p.m.

EPA Continues Testing at Site of Clemens House Fire

The EPA expects testing results by Thursday evening

Following the discovery of asbestos in debris samples taken near the site of the Clemens House fire, the Environmental Protection Agency, in connection with the City of St. Louis, has set up an air monitoring network in the immediate area.

The air monitors will be in place for at least one week to determine whether airborne asbestos fibers are present in the air surrounding the site of the fire. Results from the air monitors are expected to be available by the end of the day Thursday.

The EPA will collect samples everyday for at least a week. The results of those tests will determine the next steps.

On Tuesday Northside Regeneration LLC., the owner of the Clemens House granted the EPA permission to conduct material testing at the site. The EPA believes Northside Regeneration is the responsible party for the spread of asbestos in the area.

The EPA is reaching out to Northside Regeneration about developing a work plan to clean the Clemens House site and the debris in the surrounding area.

Until more information is available, the EPA advises residents to avoid touching, picking up or moving any debris that may have come from the fire.

Residents are further advised not to track the dust and debris into homes, take shoes off before entering homes and wash hands frequently.

If residents have further questions or concerns about the asbestos testing, please call the City's Department of Health at 314-657-1492.

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Posted on 7.19.2017 11 a.m.

EPA Discovers Asbestos in Clemens House Fire

EPA, in coordination with the City's Health Department, will conduct a Health Impact Assessment in the surrounding neighborhood

The EPA on Tuesday discovered asbestos in samples of debris taken near the site of the Clemens House fire. As a next step, the EPA, in coordination with the City's Health Department, will conduct a Health Impact Assessment in the surrounding neighborhood.

The assessment will include air monitoring to determine if there is any airborne asbestos.

The EPA recommends that residents not disturb any debris from the fire until health officials conduct further tests and determine the best way to clean up the debris.

City officials are working with the EPA on an action plan and will keep the public informed as the Health Impact Assessment proceeds.

If residents have further questions or concerns about the asbestos testing, please call the City's Department of Health at 314-657-1492.

Related:

Clemens Mansion Fire FAQs

James L. Clemens House - City Landmark #44

Property Information