Based on the fact that some parts of the damaged grain silos are at risk of collapsing, the Ministries of Environment and Health on Monday issued instructions and warnings for those living around the Port of Beirut.

“In the event that the silos collapse or partially fall, dust resulting from construction leftovers and fungus from rotten grains will be released and will spread in the air,” said a statement issued by the Environment and Health Ministries. 

“According to experts, there is no proof of the existence of asbestos or any other poisonous gas,” it added. 

“In such case, it’s very likely that the area surrounding the port [500 meters radius] and the area within the port borders be affected by a huge amount of dust in the air and should be evacuated immediately.”

“The area that is 500 to 1500 meters away from the port (Downtown Beirut, Geitawi, Karantina, Mar Mitr) will be affected by a limited amount of dust for up to 24 hours,” it stated. 

For the abovementioned reasons the ministries call on people in closed areas who work and live in the area that is 500 to 1500 meters away from the port to close their windows and doors adding that the Health Ministry will work on supplying people close to the port with masks.

The ministries also call on the people present outside of buildings to wear a KN95 mask for the first couple of hours after the collapse until reaching a closed space.

With respect to those driving, the ministries call upon them to wear a KN95 mask and turn on the car’s air recirculating mode.