OSHA Says Contaminant Levels Okay Post-Sandy
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration took a sampling of sites to test for contaminants in the wake of Superstorm Sandy. According to those tests, OSHA says, the sites are within federal exposure limits. But, they caution, this does not give employers the “all clear,” and they warn that employers are still responsible for protecting workers from potential contaminants in the wake of the storm.
Construction and clean-up crews are commonly exposed to airborne contaminants. When something like a major storm sweeps through an area, destroying everything in its path, the level of contamination should be a top concern.
OSHA found the presence of asbestos, carbon monoxide, lead, and silica in their testing. But, they said, the levels were within acceptable limits. The testing sites included those where debris and sand removal and other cleanup were being done. They also tested when employees complained about air quality.
Beginning November 5, OSHA started measuring contaminants at these sites. Testing will be ongoing, they say, as they continue to look for “additional potential contamination left behind in structures as well as in cleanup and recovery process areas where workers may be exposed to additional health hazards.”
The testing sites were also chosen based on the presence of flood waters or known toxins. Some were chosen because of their closeness to toxic waste.
They cautioned that it was not their intention to test every site and that employers are ultimately the ones responsible for detecting problems. It is their responsibility, OSHA says, to assess potential contamination, contain it, and provide employees with the protection needed to stay free from harm.
Some test results are still pending.
While flood waters may dilute some chemicals and toxins, they can also stir up and push hazards around, says Professor Paul J. Lioy of the Department of Environmental Medicine at UMDMJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. He said this sort of conclusive testing takes time.
As a worker, especially if you are cleaning up after a disaster, you want to know that you can trust your employer to keep you safe. Whether you are repairing buildings or putting up new construction, you have rights.
The construction accident attorneys of Ginarte know that you sometimes work in dangerous situations. As a construction worker, you sometimes take risks that other workers don’t. When you are hurt on the job, you need someone on your side. Call us today to discuss your case at 888-GINARTE.
