After asbestos was discovered in a ceiling at the Stamford Police Department, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) began an investigation that resulted in five citations and a fine of $2,720 for failure to screen those who work in the headquarters and may have been exposed. Now, new signs warning of the harmful toxin have been put up, prompting police officers of the department to take precautionary measures to protect themselves, should the presence of asbestos prove to be detrimental to their health.
Exposure to asbestos can result in numerous respiratory health problems, many of which do not surface for decades, including mesothelioma – a type of cancer that sees just 10% of its victims survive for five years following diagnosis.
So far, 51 Stamford police officers have filed notices with the state Worker’s Compensation Commission.
“Clearly, the signs make it evident there is a danger present,” said Stamford Police Association President Todd Lobraico. “It is causing quite a stir with our membership. Not only do we have to worry about our safety on the street, we have to worry about our safety when we enter our place of work.”
City Chief of Staff Michael Pollard explained that the signs were put up by order of OSHA, and that as long as the 17 identified “hotspots” in the station are not disturbed, the officers and other individuals working in the police department will not be at risk of exposure. Pollard also pointed out that finding a new location for the headquarters is a top priority. “We have no hesitation about wanting to get people out of the building,” he said. “It is just a matter of finding the right location and facility.”
In the meantime, Lobraico praised the Stamford Police Department for its continued service, despite the unfavorable conditions. “Our police officers have been doing a phenomenal job closing cases and catching criminals, and while they are doing this, they have the asbestos to deal with.”
Stamford Police Chief Jon Fontneau reiterated Lobraico’s assessment of the officers’ worth. “These are tough living conditions our officers are being subjected to as they work in this building day in and day out. As they walk into the building, they see the signs, and as they walk out, they see the signs that this building is not safe,” Fontneau said. “It certainly doesn’t boost morale around here, and there is word that the officers are anxious to get out of this building. Me, included.”
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