Abstract |
In response to increasing concern over the safety and health of hazardous waste workers at Superfund incinerator sites, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently established a joint EPA-Labor Superfund Health and Safety Task Force to coordinate activities designed to ensure vigorous oversight of occupationl safety and health at these sites. As a result of EPA/Labor Task Force-sponsored inspections, operators of the inspected incinerators have agreed to address the team's findings and to improve their safety and health programs. The EPA/Labor Task Force also has developed a draft 'Protocol for Safety and Health Inspections at Superfund Sites' to be used for inspections of all types of Superfund sites. In 1993, the EPA/Labor Task Force will continue to conduct additional Superfund incinerator site inspections. EPA believes that the initiaties launched with the EPA/Labor Task Force will ensure that the safety and health of workers engaged in hazardous waste cleanup activities is a top priority at these sites. |