Results reveal nothing but dust

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Results reveal nothing but dust

By Gretchen M. Kline

DAILY COURIER

Friday, May 24, 2002

UNIONTOWN - The preliminary results of an environmental and air-quality

analysis performed in the Fayette County Controller's office revealed no

immediate danger - except dust.

Commissioner Nehls and Cavanagh confirmed that they received on

Thursday a preliminary report from the Uniontown company contracted by the

county earlier this month. The company performed environmental and

air-quality analysis, checking for mold, bacteria and asbestos and testing

for dust and other factors.

Nehls on Thursday said the factual report will be put in the mail on Friday.

" There is not an immediate danger there, " said Nehls of the report's

findings in the controller's office. Tests were unable to detect spores and

molds. He said the preliminary report includes recommendations, such as

industry standards, the county should take.

Three weeks have passed since employees in the controller's office first

began complaining about irritated and burning eyes, throats and noses.

Employees said they experienced other symptoms including nose bleeds and

vomiting. Controller Mark has been instructing his employees to

leave work if they began feeling ill. had asked the commissioners to

temporarily place workers in the commissioners' conference room, across the

hall, from the controller's office.

" We've tried to accommodate the employees, " Nehls said that the office was

closed for two days this week and employees were moved in to other offices.

Nehls said the preliminary report indicates " a typical air quality complaint

from an employee. "

said employees this week " were not forced to be in the office " and

could go to other offices within close proximity of the controller's office.

said he has not seen the test results but heard the tests show

excessive dust. instructed employees to go home when they began to

feel sick and take home with them what work they could do. However,

did not experience any of the symptoms plaguing his employees.

" We've done everything step by step, " said Nehls, adding that the state

Department of Health was contacted.

Cavanagh, contacted Thursday afternoon, said the office, once tested for air

quality, was thoroughly cleaned.

" Any office, any problem, we have to respond to immediately. The county has

responded quickly. "

Gretchen M. Kline can be reached at gkline@....