New Jersey officials investigate athletic fields for asbestos

The new athletic fields constructed in Lyndhurst, New Jersey have been under investigation by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection for possible exposure to asbestos. Officials have launched an investigation of the soil to see how much of the dangerous substance may exist in the area. A piece of material that was recently discovered close to the fields tested positive for asbestos and now the entire area is being investigated.

The Mayor of Lyndhurst, Richard DiLascio, said the materials containing the dangerous asbestos were found close to the property line of the new fields. There is a Conrail railroad track adjacent to the field where a new fence was recently constructed and he feels this new construction may have unearthed the dangerous substance.

A bright orange, plastic fence has been constructed around the area to keep it cordoned off until further testing can be completed.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used as an insulator in many different applications. The substance becomes dangerous when the long fibers break off and become airborne. Individuals can breathe in the fibers possibly resulting in serious health problems.

At this time the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has not declared the state of the site an emergency. "The DEP specifically stated that it's a non-emergent condition," said Tom Solfaro, a member of the township's engineering firm. "They (the DEP) had no concerns relative to the sports activity that's going on on the property."

The Bergen County Health Inspector visited the fields and found no danger in continuing to use them.

"We're taking the precautions," the mayor added. "We're doing the testing, and we'll do whatever we're directed to do."

Solfaro agreed. "The township is working hand in hand with all the regulatory agencies," he said

The recommended plan of the DEP is to continue to cordon off the area so no one is exposed and then continue to test the soil to determine the size of the asbestos-containing area. All dangerous material will then be buried according to DEP regulations.

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