Transportation researchers at New York University believe there are “alarmingly harmful” concentrations of what could be toxic particles in the subway.
The team studied the air quality on board the train, on 9 metro lines in December 2020 – 2021.
They also studied the air quality, in more than 340 platforms, in almost 300 stations.
The conclusion was that, inside, the iron particles in the air were about 140 times higher than in the outside air.
The worst station identified was 181st Street along Line 1.
Other identified particles include silicon, copper, nickel, among others.
The results also suggested that when the train doors are opened, the air mixture between the platform and the cars sees a rapid increase in these particles inside the train cars.
The lines used in this study were trains 1, 3, 5, 6, B, C, F, M and R.
Researchers believe the particles may come from friction when trains hit their brakes, as well as from transit construction work.
In response, MTA director of communication Tim Minton says, and we quote:
“We have carried out previous air quality tests on subway trains that operate throughout the underground system and found no health risks. The safety of users and employees is always our top priority.”
2023-05-14 12:25:00
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