Reflecting on September 11, 2001: How the Clean Harbors team united to accomplish the task

Clean Harbors demonstrated its exceptional capability to handle emergency situations during the months following the September 11 attacks in New York City. Workers arrived early and remained until the cleanup at Ground Zero was finished.

Though Clean Harbors was not as large or resourceful 23 years ago as it is today, those involved were certain the company would step up and meet the challenge. District Vice President Bobby Sherman emphasized the collaborative effort, noting that teams from different locations, including New York, New Jersey, and corporate offices, all worked together to complete the job.

For Clean Harbors employees, like many others across the country, September 11, 2001 began as an ordinary day. Senior Account Manager Paul Feeney recalled first hearing about a plane hitting one of the World Trade Center towers while at the Brooklyn office. Initially, he thought it was a minor incident, but the situation quickly escalated after seeing the flames and witnessing the second plane hit.

Feeney and his team immediately set out to help but soon found themselves stuck in traffic. Eventually, they abandoned their vehicle and continued on foot to the site. They were unaware that the first tower had already collapsed and had to take cover in an alley when the second tower fell. They were later escorted to safety by a police officer, and the following morning, corporate staff arrived to begin the full-scale response.

Getting to work

In the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, Clean Harbors swiftly began setting up decontamination stations for responders amid the heavy dust and debris that covered large areas of New York City. The dust contained dangerous particles such as asbestos, making the work critical for the safety of those on site. District Vice President James Cardone, who managed the New Jersey branch at the time, recalled how surreal it was to drive through eerily empty streets before encountering armed guards and undergoing lengthy identification processes. However, the initial chaos gave way to more organized efforts as the response continued.

Each day at Ground Zero brought different tasks, from cleaning operations to handling hazardous materials, showcasing the team's expertise. Sherman, who was leading the field services team from South Boston, emphasized that while the situation was far from a typical response, the team operated smoothly, following protocols to ensure safety. The decontamination stations played a crucial role, collecting and sanitizing the personal protective equipment (PPE) of first responders and cleaning trucks that transported debris offsite to prevent the spread of contaminants.

Much of the coordination took place from two mobile command centers, housed in trailers that had been purchased earlier in the year. Rick Smith, then a fleet manager, recalled how the trailers, completed just before the attacks, became essential assets for the entire cleanup period. Both units, still in service today, highlighted the company's preparedness for emergencies. Smith remarked that even at the time, Clean Harbors had already established itself as a leading responder to disasters, a reputation that would only grow stronger in the years to come.

Doing the job right

The response to Ground Zero presented immense challenges, both mentally and physically, for those involved. Scott Metzger, SVP of Industrial Services, highlighted the psychological toll of working in such a harrowing environment, recalling the haunting moments of silence called during nighttime operations to listen for any potential survivors.

The efforts of Clean Harbors extended beyond decontamination; the company also established comfort stations to support the mental well-being of workers. Senior Talent Consultant Vincent Doucette, who was responsible for recruiting, did not visit Ground Zero himself but interacted with many who did. Thanks to a Brownfields grant from the EPA, the company hired temporary workers to bolster the response team.

Doucette emphasized the importance of selecting the right individuals for the demanding work. The hiring process involved not only assessing physical capability but also ensuring the mental readiness of candidates. Given that the operation ran 24/7, it was crucial to find qualified personnel who could handle the pressure. Doucette recalled interviewing hundreds of candidates, noting that many were emotionally affected by the tragedy, with some breaking down during discussions about their experiences. Those who struggled to cope were deemed unfit for the job, as safety was paramount.

Ultimately, Doucette reinforced the company's commitment to safety, stating, "Our number one responsibility, no matter what we do, is making sure the work gets done safely." Despite being a much smaller organization at the time, Clean Harbors maintained high standards of excellence, a commitment that remains integral to its operations today.

The Clean Harbors family

In the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, a profound sense of national pride emerged, especially evident during President George W. Bush’s visit to Ground Zero, where he expressed gratitude to first responders. For Clean Harbors employees, a similar internal pride manifested early on. Senior Account Manager Paul Feeney noted the corporate office’s continuous support, providing cookies, treats, and care packages, emphasizing the collective effort and gratitude felt by everyone involved.

James Cardone, a District Vice President, recognized the exceptional selflessness and dedication of employees during the response, which became a way of life for many for over six months. The support received from the company during this challenging time left an indelible mark on their memories. He recalled a rainy day when company founder Alan McKim chose to walk to Ground Zero instead of taking a golf cart, stopping to personally thank workers at decontamination stations along the way. This gesture underscored the significance of the response and the company's commitment to its employees.

Since that time, Clean Harbors has solidified its reputation as the leading emergency response provider in North America. The company has responded to numerous critical events, including the anthrax attacks, Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the Deepwater Horizon spill, and the 2015 avian flu outbreak, as well as COVID-19 decontamination efforts. However, the unique and vital role played at Ground Zero in the wake of the 9/11 tragedy remains a defining moment in the company’s history.

A day of service

This year, September 11 is recognized as the National Day of Service and Remembrance, a time to honor the lives lost in the 9/11 tragedy by helping those in need and promoting charity and community giving. In alignment with this spirit, the Clean Harbors Veterans Employee Resource Group contributed by delivering employee donations to the Cape & Islands Veterans Outreach Center in Hyannis, Massachusetts. This initiative reflects the commitment to serve and support veterans, embodying the day’s message of remembrance through acts of kindness and community engagement.