June 2nd, 2005

Following a complaint from the Stamford Police Association, Occupational Health and Safety Officers have made an unexpected visit to the police headquarters in the area. The complaint was relating to the presence of toxic substances in the building, including asbestos, mold, and lead. In addition, the police association complained that the ventilation in the building was very poor, heightening the risks associated with exposure to such toxic substances.

An attorney that is representing the police union stated, "I'm hoping the city removes the asbestos in the building as well as the lead contamination problem in the firing range. There is not an adequate ventilation system in the basement." The President of the police union added, "We have to resolve these problems."

Apparently, the problems had reached a point where the union was receiving complaints because officers reported that their eyes were burning from exposure to some of the toxic substances. It is hoped that the investigation by Occupational Health officials will reveal more information about the levels of exposure to substances such as lead, asbestos and mold, and will enable appropriate action to be taken.

Following the initial inspection, the city’s risk manager said, "I think we've done a good job of addressing the issue within the police department. It's still an ongoing process." However, a spokesperson for Occupational Health stated that it is hard to tell how long the process will take: "Until the report comes out, we can only confirm that we're on the site."