PCBs in Caulk
On September 25, 2009, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that caulk used in many buildings, including schools, constructed or renovated between 1950 and 1978 may contain polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). EPA is providing guidance for school administrators and building managers about managing PCBs in caulk and tools to help minimize possible exposure. EPA will also assist communities in identifying potential problems and, if necessary, developing plans for PCB testing and removal. For more information, including a PCB in Caulk Hotline, go to
http://www.epa.gov/pcbsincaulk/
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Potassium Iodide Beginning October 1, 2009, the State of Michigan will be making a free supply of potassium iodide, or KI, available to people living or working within 10 miles of a nuclear power plant in Michigan. More information is available at www.michigan.gov/ki.
Bug Bombs
The Centers for Disease Control has issued a report on the use of bug bombs. During 2001-2006, 466 cases of illness and injury due to from total-release foggers (TRFs) or "bug bombs" were reported in eight states. TRFs are a health risk to users and bystanders. Cough, shortness of breath, and upper airway irritation are the most common health problems. These preventable TRF illnesses and injuries were often due to the user's inability get out of the area before the TRF was used, entering the treated space too soon, using too many TRFs, accidental discharge of a TRF, and not notifying others about the use of TRFs.
Reports
The 2006 Work-related Amputation in Michigan report summarizes the characteristics of work-related amputations in Michigan for 2006 as identified from hospital medical records and workers' compensation claims. It also describes the outcomes of worksite inspection referrals submitted to the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
Get the complete list of fact sheets from the Division of Environmental Health.
Health Assessments
Health assessments are evaluations of hazardous waste sites or sites that are thought to contain chemical contamination. Recent documents are posted below. For the complete list of health assessments, click on the Health Assessments and Related Documents link.
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