Jack.Winslade@uunet.uu.net> (06/11/91)
(From various sources, including {Omaha World-Herald}, WOWT TV, and a
personal conversation.}
Since last weekend, directory assistance operators in Omaha have been
stricken with headaches, sneezing attacks, nausea, vomiting, etc.
while working at the information center at 78th and Girard Streets in
Omaha. On Friday, fire units from Omaha and Irvington were dispatched,
as a natural gas leak was suspected. Utility crews found no leak. On
Saturday, their union (CWA) instructed their members to stay off work
until the situation was stabilized. Management workers reported
similar symptoms on Saturday.
According to the {World-Herald}, 'Officials from the US Occupational
Safety and Health Administration and the Douglas County Health
Department were investigating ... and an environmental testing firm
from Minneapolis.'
WOWT TV showed a picture of a trailer being installed outside the
facility to provide a temporary safe environment. As of Monday
morning, all tests were inconclusive.
I spoke to an employee of a firm which did some tests on the building
over the weekend. He stated that '... everyone is totally stumped.'
Tests for chlorine, natural gas, monoxide, and biological agents were
performed. As of this minute, a followup is on the 10:00pm news on
WOWT at this time. They show temporary ducts that were rigged to
increase the air flow. They reported that some symptoms still persist
for those working in the building.
US West announced that moderate delays with DA calls could be
expected.
Good Day! JSW