In response to a recent complaint to the state Division of Occupational Safety and Health or OSHA, the Morongo Valley Community Services District hired a safety consultant to evaluate conditions at the fire station. In its report, the consultant acknowledged several areas where improvements are warranted, none, however, were considered egregious. Reporter Mike Lipsitz was there and has details …
Interim General Manager Roxanne Brazell started the discussion at last night’s special meeting cautioning that when OSHA sends a request, a swift response is expected. Toward that end, board members and interim fire chief Pete Blakemore, rolled up their sleeves and addressed the points raised in the complaint filed with OSHA. Following recommendations made by the safety management consultant, the CSD board authorized purchase of eight firefighter pant and coat turnout ensembles at a price not to exceed $20,000, gave a green light for up to $6,000 for purchase of an approved extractor washer, and set aside another $1,000 for renovations to improve air circulation around firefighter lockers. Some signage will warn employees of the possibility of mold at the unmanned, auxiliary fire station. And the CSD intends to seek bids to make some roof repairs, install anti-skid tiles, and provide a dedicated mop and bucket at the station where water sometimes infiltrates. Consultants found no exposed asbestos.
MORONGO VALLEY CSD TAKES STEPS TO ASSURE FIRE DEPARTMENT SAFETY
