DEAR EDITOR:
The recent article by Lori Stuenkel
”
Children exposed to fumes
”
was a bold effort to act diligently reporting the facts
regarding the concerns of the health risks to the very young
children.
DEAR EDITOR:
The recent article by Lori Stuenkel “Children exposed to fumes” was a bold effort to act diligently reporting the facts regarding the concerns of the health risks to the very young children. And let us not forget a block away is an institution housing and caring for our loved, valuable elderly.
Mrs. Doyle and other parent’s concerns were well founded to the dangers to the children. The city officials reported misinformation to Ms. Stuenkel regarding the health risk to the children attested on the M.S.D.S (Material Safety Data Sheets) stamped on every carton of the bitumen as required by law in compliance to California Health and Safety Code Section which read avoid breathing fumes, wear long-sleeve shirts, pants and gloves and eye protection when handling and applying the material. In case of contact: if inhaled remove individual to fresh air. If irritation persists, administer oxygen and seek medical aid.
I have worked as a skilled roofer for more than 30 years doing schools and public works jobs. For example, at Gavilan College we would work during periods between sessions or at night with lights – with only the exceptions during times of emergencies. Utmost attention would be paid to protect everyone near or trafficking through the area. The failure of such an infraction is not only bad business but in also criminal under California AB 2249, the California Corporate Criminal Liability Act of 1989.
It is one thing when a willing informed adult agrees to be exposed to something possible harmful and a completely another when it is a 3-year-old child or an elderly when they are in controlled atmosphere without ability to leave or obtain fresh air on their own because those entrusted with the health and safety from illness and injury are in denial the reality.
I compliment the writer Ms. Stuenkel and The Dispatch for bringing the story out.
Pat Defina, Fresno
Submitted Tuesday, Oct. 21
