UPDATE: Eastman plant manager says no longer term effects following debris blasted into neighborhoods

Assessments following a steam line failure at Eastman Chemical Company will continue throughout the week, according to Plant Operations Manager Mark Bogle, including those areas near Eastman’s northeast campus.

We learned from Eastman that some of those particles that landed on homes and vehicles near Lincoln Street could contain asbestos. Bogle said care teams took samples of air quality in those residential areas.

“All samples indicated that air quality in these areas is at levels the EPA deems safe,” he said in an online press session.

He was also questioned about the possible long-term effects the debris could have while contracted workers could be seen wearing special suits on Tuesday to clean off and collect items blasted out of the plant and into the air from the steam event.

“…In our opinion, we don’t believe anybody was exposed to a harmful level of asbestos from this event,” said Bogle.

Eastman is still cautioning residents about possible steam clouds and noises coming from inside the property due to upcoming power-ups taking place in the coming days.

(IMAGE: Bristol Broadcasting Co News Archives)