NIOSH ALERT: "Carbon Monoxide Poisoning and Death After the Use of Explosives in a Sewer Construction Project" (WISHA Cover Letter)

August 19, 1999

Dear Blaster:

The attached information (click here to view the NIOSH Alert) is being forwarded for your use by the WISHA Services Division of the Department of Labor and Industries. This Information, developed by the federal government, could be helpful to you in protecting yourself and your workers from the emerging occupational safety or health hazard it addresses.

We encourage you to read the information and follow the recommendations it contains.

Specifically, this information alerts you to the previously unrecognized hazard posed by carbon monoxide migrating through soil from nearby use of underground explosives. This hazard is not limited to sewer projects, but may occur in underground vaults or other confined spaces. Please read this information if you suspect that this hazard represents a potential exposure for you or your employees.

If you are an employer and have specific questions about bringing your worksite into compliance with the Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act (WISHA), please feel free to contact the L&I service center nearest your location. Ask to speak to someone in WISHA consultation Services about free, no-penalty consultation services.

Thank you in advance to your timely attention to this occupational safety and health issue.

Sincerely,

Michael A Silverstein, MD
Assistant Director for WISHA Services