OSHA inspectors show signs of beryllium health problems
OSHA, long criticized for downplaying the dangers of beryllium, has discovered that several of its employees have been affected by exposure to the deadly metal, reports the Chicago Tribune.
The Tribune has learned that ongoing medical testing shows that at least three OSHA workers have developed blood abnormalities linked to beryllium exposure — the first such cases at the agency. The workers are believed to have been exposed while conducting safety inspections in industries using beryllium, a lightweight metal whose dust can cause an often-fatal lung disease.