The main collection and sorting facility for the U.S. Postal Service in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, was recently found to contain asbestos dust from disintegrating floor tiles. According to OSHA, the dust “could cause health hazards.”
Asbestos exposure is linked to a number of serious health conditions, including asbestosis and mesothelioma.
Possible Exposure
“The employees could be exposed to the asbestos through contact with the mail cases, mail totes and mail trays through getting the asbestos on their hands and clothing,” said an OSHA citation issued in May.
OSHA fined the U.S. Postal Service $1,500 for a “serious” housekeeping violation, but the fine was reduced by half on appeal.
Addressing the Problem
Both Postal Service and OSHA officials say that a plan is in place to address the floor tile problem. Until a $90,000 project to replace the tiles is finished, the floor will be mopped and vacuumed daily.
The facility employees approximately 40 workers. David Filippo, safety manager for the Postal Service’s Tennessee District, said an air quality evaluation showed no immediate hazard to workers.
(Source: Knoxville News Sentinel)
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