Construction Project Causes Indoor Air Quality Complaints at Nearby Courthouse

Recently, the New Haven Independent published a report about employee complaints caused by exposure to construction fumes inside a county courthouse in Connecticut. According to the article, nearby construction in the congested urban area were causing health concerns for courthouse workers due to diesel exhaust infiltrating the building.

Complaints of headaches, nausea and red eye were reported and a grievance was filed with the workers union. This reportedly resulted in an inspection by representatives from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and steps, such as the closure of ground-level fresh air intakes, were implemented to try and reduce the level of fumes entering the courthouse.

Exposure issues associated with the use of diesel engines in crowded urban construction sites is an all too common occurrence. Diesel exhaust contains a mixture of gases and very small particles that can create a health hazard if not properly controlled. Diesel particulate matter (DPM) includes soot particles made up primarily of carbon, ash, metallic abrasion particles, sulfates and silicates. Diesel soot particles have a solid core consisting of elemental carbon, with other substances attached to the surface, including organic carbon compounds known as aromatic hydrocarbons.

“It is well documented that even short-term exposure to high concentrations of diesel particulate matter and diesel exhaust can cause headaches, dizziness and irritation of the eye, nose and throat that can be severe enough to distract or disable workers,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “In addition to carbon monoxide exposure hazards, prolonged exposure to diesel exhaust can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular, cardiopulmonary and respiratory diseases in addition to lung cancer.”

To protect workers, the public and to help keep companies in regulatory compliance, EMSL Analytical, Inc. offers air testing services and real-time monitoring equipment to identify exposure concerns associated with diesel exhaust and other respiratory hazards. The company also offers a complete line of respirators and personal protective equipment (PPE). EMSL has even sponsored an educational video about diesel exhaust, particulate matter and air quality issues that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/8Xyvig24Hqk.    

To learn more about indoor air quality (IAQ), industrial hygiene, occupational and environmental testing services and monitoring instruments, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email  info@EMSL.com .

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical, Inc. is one of the leading testing laboratories with 43 locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP 797, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOC’s, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations.  In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) 856-303-2503

Contact via E-mail