Air quality still a concern in Mon Valley

By JEFF STITT
jstitt@yourmvi.com
Although it has been more than a week since high levels of sulfur dioxide have been detected at U.S. Steel Clairton Coke Works, Mon Valley residents are still cautioned to limit their outdoor activities as a result of a Christmas Eve fire that damaged heavy equipment at the plant.
Allegheny County Health Department Director Dr. Karen Hacker issued an update Wednesday afternoon regarding repairs to the plant and air quality in the Mon Valley.
“After receiving safety training, our inspectors and air quality enforcement manager have been allowed to see the damage at the Clairton Coke Works, and our inspectors are now monitoring repair progress daily,” Hacker said. “Out of an abundance of caution, we want the public to know that there remains a potential risk for future exceedances. We are continuing to encourage Mon Valley residents to be aware of this risk, especially sensitive populations, those with asthma, individuals with bronchitis or emphysema, children and the elderly.”
Hacker said SO2 is a respiratory irritant, which can make health conditions worse.
“We urge residents with these vulnerabilities to protect themselves by limiting their outdoor activities until repair is completed, given the risk of further exceedances. Anyone experiencing symptoms should see their primary care provider as soon as possible. In case of an emergency, dial 911 or go to the emergency room.”
The warning is extended to residents of Braddock, Clairton, Dravosburg, Duquesne, East McKeesport, East Pittsburgh, Elizabeth Borough, Elizabeth Township, Forward, Glassport, Jefferson Hills, Liberty, Lincoln, McKeesport, North Braddock, North Versailles, Pleasant Hills, Port Vue, Versailles, Wall, West Elizabeth and West Mifflin.

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