DAMAGED GYM LIGHT CAUSE OF MOOSOMIN SCHOOL PROBLEM

A damaged gymnasium lamp has been identified as the source of a problem that required several teachers in Moosomin to seek medical attention.

A metal halide lamp in the school gymnasium ceiling had been damaged and, as result, was emitting ultra violet light that burned and irritated the exposed skin of teachers attending a meeting in the gym. Ultra violet light, whether from the sun or manufactured sources, causes burning and irritation to skin exposed to it for a sufficient period of time.

Several teachers attending a meeting in the gymnasium on Tuesday, August 31st suffered facial burns and irritation. Occupational hygienists from Saskatchewan Labour's Occupational Health and Safety Division traveled to Moosomin on Wednesday, September 1st to investigate.

As a result of the incident, Saskatchewan Labour's Occupational Health and Safety Division will issue a hazard alert warning employers of the potential hazard from such lights. They will work with employers to minimize the potential for a similar incident in the future.

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For More Information, Contact:

Al Walker Labour Regina Phone: (306)787-4481