Reduce your exposure to dust

Building demolition

As a part of the cleanup process, the Navy is digging into the ground and demolishing buildings at the Shipyard. These actions are to locate radiological objects and to collect and remove contaminated soil. The demolition of buildings is necessary to remove contaminated soil underneath buildings.

 

Learn more about the demolition of Building 123 from the Navy’s fact sheet.

Managing dust

The digging and building demolitions will cause more dust to be in the air than usual. The Navy is reducing the amount of dust in the air by watering active demolition sites, covering up the soil, and monitoring wind patterns.

 

Learn more about how the Navy is working to manage dust.

Report concerns

If you see a concerning amount of dust at the Shipyard, you can:

  • Report it to the Navy by leaving a message on the Shipyard Information line by calling 415-295-4742
  • File a complaint with the Bay Area Air Quality Management District using the online form or call 800-334-6367

 

Recommendations for reducing dust in indoor spaces

Recommendations for reducing dust in indoor spaces

Exhaling dust from the air can irritate your lungs and make existing breathing conditions worse. You can take steps to reduce your exposure to dust by following the recommendations below.
 

  • Limit air from outdoors: Stay indoors and keep your windows closed when demolition happens, or you see dust. Be sure to seal cracks in windows and doors.
     
  • Use filters in your heating or cooling system: Install a ventilation filter in your home’s heating or cooling system. Learn more about how to choose the correct filter for your home and properly install it.​​​​​​​ If you live in a large building, it may have built-in ventilation filters. Contact the property manager to ask about the ventilation filters the building.
  • Use an air purifier: Air purifiers can clean the indoor air of dust. Keep in mind that some air purifiers work better than others. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) air filters will remove 99.97% of pollutants in the air while other air filters maybe less effective. Remember to regularly replace the filters.If you cannot buy air purifiers for your entire home, focus on a clean room for sleeping.
     
  • Vacuum and mop often: Make sure to vacuum with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. Other vacuums might stir up and recirculate harmful dust. Additionally, focus on general housekeeping routines to remove visible dust from the floor and other surfaces.