FREEHOLD — Testing for a broad range of chemical compounds in the air at the Monmouth County Courthouse came back within normal ranges, and the facility was expected to reopen Tuesday.
The courthouse was closed June 18 after dozens of courthouse employees exhibited symptoms of illness.
The state Department of Health and Senior Services collected 10 air samples last week and tested them for a wide range of volatile organic compounds such as benzene and various chemicals found in cleaning agents.
“The findings were well within acceptable limits,” said state epidemiologist Tina Tan.
A battery of additional tests for pollen, mold, dust, common allergens and other indoor environmental quality measurements were conducted by county and local officials last week and also found to be within normal ranges.
The compounds that were identified were such that would normally be found in common household cleaning products, candles and deodorizers, according to the state health department.
“Monmouth County officials have done everything that should be done to thoroughly clean the courthouse over the past week,” Tan said.
The State Police Hazardous Materials Unit tested on June 18 for volatile compounds, and the county’s environmental consultant followed up a day later with tests for dust, pollen and mold.
“The health and safety professionals from the state and county have been looking out for the safety of our court employees and court users from day one,” said Judge Lawrence Lawson, assignment judge of the Monmouth County vicinage who has continued to oversee court operations since the disruption of court events in the courthouse. “We are grateful to them for their hard work and are relieved to get back into the courthouse tomorrow and have operations return to normal.
Lawson urged those with questions to check njcourts.com for updates on court operations.
Members of the public who may have lingering concerns can call the Division of Consumer, Environmental and Occupational Health Service at 1-609-826-4920 or visit www.state.nj.us/health