HEALTH & SAFETY/INDUSTRAL HYGIENE

8/Toxicological Investigation (Occupational Toxicology)

PROBLEM

A thoroughbred horse farm found a dangerous chemical had been used as a surface wood preservative in its barns. The farm needed to determine the actual danger to its employees, visitors, and to the high-priced horses kept on the farm.

SMG'S APPROACH

SMG analyzed the potential risk to humans and the long-term potential effects on the million dollar thoroughbreds through a toxicological evaluation, field sampling, source evaluation and environmental condition assessment.

RESULTS

The farm was able to protect both people and horses by cleaning and removing the hazard through replacement of the pesticide containing preservative. Upon completion, the farm had revised its overall safety and hazardous materials policy. They took appropriate measures to reduce the use of hazardous products by contractors and subcontractors performing work on their facilities.