Learn the Issues

This page shows all of the pages at www.epa.gov that are tagged with Learn the Issues.

  • What happens to my belongings during the cleaning?

    The items you leave on your property and inside your home or place of business will remain where you left them and will not be removed.

    • Last published:

  • How do I know that my belongings will be safe during the cleaning?

    Before the team begins cleaning, they will videotape each room and photograph the items you left. The videos and photos provide a record of the items that were present and the conditions of those items at the time the cleaning team entered your structure. An EPA representative will be present…

    • Last published:

  • How will I know when I can return?

    EPA representatives will keep you informed about the progress of the cleaning. The cleaning team will provide an estimate of cleaning time when they arrive. You will be notified when cleaning is wrapping up so that you can return. Representatives of the cleaning team will not leave until you return…

    • Last published:

  • Public Health Resources

    EPTD Public Health Resources

  • 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.

    • Last published:

  • What should I do with food items?

    Any food in your kitchen cabinets and refrigerator/freezer that you will not need while you are away can be left in place. This includes items such as spices, canned, boxed, and bagged foods, and refrigerated/frozen foods. Before you leave your home or office, please be sure to empty all garbage…

    • Last published:

  • Was there any consideration for cleaning outside structures or conducting additional residential soil sampling?

    Cleaning under this program includes only the inside of structures. Based on soil sampling results from the Phase 1 soil sampling program, additional soil sampling is not necessary. You can find additional information on the EPA website .

    • Last published:

  • Do I need to leave my structure during the cleaning?

    While it is strongly recommended that you leave the property during the cleaning, you are not required to do so.

    • Last published:

  • Who will conduct the cleaning?

    Cleaning will be performed by workers contracted by Norfolk Southern who are trained and experienced with structure cleaning. Cleaning teams will wear the following: badges, identification clothing, safety vest, shoe covers, gloves (when appropriate for the task), and face coverings (upon request by the property owner or renter).

    • Last published:

  • Will participating in the program preclude me from receiving other benefits or participating in or filing a claim against Norfolk Southern?

    No.

    • Last published:

  • Who pays for it?

    Norfolk Southern will cover costs associated with home and place of business cleaning.

    • Last published:

  • Will samples be collected after cleaning is completed?

    Indoor air or surface samples will not be collected as part of this cleaning program. Indoor sampling is not recommended since exposure pathways for volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) have been effectively managed though site engineering controls and an extensive network of air monitoring and sampling equipment. Any VOCs that may…

    • Last published:

  • What happens if any of my items get damaged during the cleaning process?

    If any items get damaged, an independent appraiser will estimate the value of the item by using the videos and photos of your belongings to determine a fair value for the item that needs to be replaced. The assessment will then be presented to you for your approval. If you…

    • Last published:

  • What do I do with my indoor plants during the cleaning?

    You may leave plants on your property and inside your home or place of business. However, the cleaning team will not move any of your belongings, including plants. You may want to consider moving plants outside for the day, if possible, and watering them before you leave.

    • Last published:

  • What about duct cleaning?

    Per the recommendations of health agencies, duct cleaning is not necessary and will not be part of the cleaning under this program. However, if an individual in the village of East Palestine or in the 1-mile by 2-mile evacuation area would like to have their ducts cleaned separately, they may…

    • Last published:

  • How long will it take?

    The expectation is for cleaning to take less than one day. The duration will be dependent on the size of the structure and the scope of work.

    • Last published:

  • What do I have to do in preparation for the cleaning?

    Cleaning crews will not move any of your personal belongings, including furniture or appliances. To ensure the most thorough cleaning of your home or place of business, please clear countertops and other surfaces, and limit excess clutter. Norfolk Southern will provide a few boxes if needed to allow for easy…

    • Last published:

  • I rent. Can I give permission for cleaning, or does it have to go through the owner?

    You should review your lease to ensure there is not an issue and contact your property owner for clarification as needed.

    • Last published:

  • 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.

    • Last published:

  • Frequently Asked Questions: Cleaning

    faqS FROM THE Indoor Cleaning Begins at Eligible Homes and Businesses factsheet