Even when their health is jeopardized
By Dalia Díaz
As a result of the 911 attack, rescue workers were forced to inhale the dust emanating from the fallen towers. Years later, firefighters and police officers are dying from all kinds of asbestos related diseases caused by the chemicals they ingested on those days. It’s been very sad seeing how they had to fight for the rights to medical care and compensation for their families until it was recently approved.
On November 7 of this year, while driving by the Central Fire Station on Lowell St., I noticed that the entrance for the fire engines was covered with plastic tarps and wondered what was going on. I have written a lot about the floor conditions because they represent a danger for the firefighters and finally it’s getting repaired.
Upon entering, 911 came to mind because everything was covered with the same white dust. Firemen were walking around uncovered while the workers had the proper gear – clothing, ear protectors and masks.
The pictures can show the severity of the situation so, after contacting OSHA, the inspectors came and issued a warning to the city for the lack of protection to our men and women and now there is a record for potential health problems they may encounter.
OSHA also made it clear that the construction company is responsible for the cleanup of the contaminated dust, not the firefighters.
Interestingly, the same situation took place in the City of Plymouth, MA and the fire station closed until the asbestos problem was remedied. Now all firefighters should have annual chest x-rays and other medical tests because these diseases can take 10-20 years to appear.
Silence is the worst killer. When we don’t demand our rights, is easy to violate them.
