Spore danger

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Spore danger

Published on: 12/21/06.

The Nation Newspaper - Bridgetown,St. ,Barbados

by AMANDA LYNCH-FOSTER

http://www.nationnews.com/story/345237216646696.php

THE FULL EXTENT of the unsafe conditions which led to the closure of

the Public Library on Coleridge Street, the City, has been

uncovered.

A report submitted by the Environmental Protection Department since

June revealed that the potentially dangerous fungi aspergillus,

penicillium and verticillium were found at the library in its

Microfilm Room and Technical Wing.

" Total airborne spore counts and viable species of penicillium and

aspergillus are increased in the Microfilm Room when compared to

outside. Moisture intrusion in the Microfilm Room and Technical Wing

is supporting fungal growth particularly of penicillium, aspergillus

and verticillium, " read the report.

It outlined the health problems that can be caused by the presence

of these fungi, including coughing, wheezing, increased irritation

for asthmatics and human keratitis (inflammation of the eyes).

This report was attached to a letter sent by Director of the Library

Service, Annette , to the Permanent Secretary in the Prime

Minister's Office, detailing her concerns about the poor working

conditions which had already caused workers to take industrial

action.

In the letter, which also expressed concern about the deteriorating

electrical supply at the library, urged the immediate closure

of the facility.

She asked for " some reassurance " that the building was still safe

and " that the heritage collection is in no danger of going up in

smoke " .

She also warned that if staff found out exactly how unhealthy the

conditions were, they could face yet more industrial action.

" The staff are not yet aware that their fears have been confirmed by

the Environmental Engineering Division, but I have no doubt about

the outcome when they become aware of this information. I would

therefore recommend that we adopt a proactive stance and do not wait

until the union takes control of the situation, again, " read the

letter.

Despite this and the library's subsequent closure, staff have still

been reporting for duty at the Public Library.

In late September, it was reported that neither staff members, their

union, the National Union of Public Workers, nor management had been

privy to this report.