Los Angeles County Health Officer Muntu Davis has halted the removal of fire debris from recent deadly wildfires, citing toxic substances that could pose a danger to workers.
“To ensure public health and safety, health officials are working to clean up fire-damaged and burned properties and remove fire debris in critical fire areas, including the Palisades, Eaton, Kenneth, Creek, and Hearst areas. We have issued an order prohibiting removal, including the Lydia Fire, until a hazardous materials inspection is completed by an approved government agency,” the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health said in a news release.
According to the order issued on Wednesday, the process will be carried out in two stages.
Phase 1 – Hazardous Waste Removal. The County Fire Health Hazardous Materials Certification Uniform Program Agency works with state and federal partners to conduct hazardous materials assessments for all fire properties. This assessment helps determine the fire debris removal process required for individual lots or areas. Phase 2 – Fire Debris Removal. State and federal governments operate programs for fire debris cleanup, removal, and disposal, and property owners can choose to properly remove hazardous fire debris from their properties. Property owners may choose to hire a contractor to clean the property after the appraisal, but must obtain approval and follow applicable laws regarding the cleanup and disposal of fire debris and hazardous waste.
The order states that fire debris, ash, and soil from home and structure fires may contain asbestos, heavy metals, and other hazardous materials, and that people may be exposed to these toxins during disposal. It is stated that.
“Improper handling and disposal of fire debris can increase these risks and spread hazardous materials throughout the community, endangering workers, residents, and the environment,” the health department said.
The order applies only to the cleanup or removal of fire debris from residential areas, but not to personal property, the news release emphasized.
Source link
