Officers have arguably one of the most dangerous jobs in the country. But when we consider the dangers associated with this profession, our first thoughts usually turn to violence that has been known to happen on patrol, answering calls for help or take down drug dealers. There are still serious risks for officers not limited to threats in the field. Officers work indoors, especially in the vaults drug and evidence rooms will be totally different, but equally dangerous conditions.
While almost no discussion of these risks, the reality is that the people working behind the scenes are facing health risks to those in the field of misses. Toxins, such as chemical fumes and particulates in the air are the cause of many diseases that continue to plague individuals long after their first encounter. However, vapors and particles in the air are not the only issue; mold is one of the biggest problems.
How does mold get in these areas?
Flown agents, which are stored in plastic bags or containers evidence, collecting moisture and then begin to grow mold. This team tournament known to cause significant problems is known as Aspergillus. Able to grow in most any biological host, Aspergillus requires only a minimal amount of moisture to thrive. So seized marijuana, even in the dried state can contain up to 10-15% of water, can promote an ideal environment for toxic mold.
What are the long term effects?
By handling evidence spores into the air where they flow into the nose ,, mouth and ears of the police. This effect can lead to cold and flu symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing and stuffiness, skin problems, eye irritation and burning, and in some cases permanent damage to the lungs and airways.
What can be done?
There are numerous ways to reduce the risk of exposure to dangerous mold in connection with the seizure, documents and disposal of medicines. Of course, one of the simplest solutions is to reduce the source mold. This can be achieved by more to dispose of medications to reduce the amount of mold growing in the first place. Another way to reduce the mold is by adding a drying chamber for drying vaults drugs and plant-based drugs, such as marijuana, before they are placed in storage containers. In addition the seized prescription drugs to be properly sealed and stored in a durable plastic garbage bags, to prevent them from ripping or tearing.
While the preferred method of storage in plastic containers, some drugs stored in glass containers. While this might seem like a more secure way to store them, if the glass container breaks, the risk of exposure rises drastically. To combat this problem, glass containers should be wrapped in insulation such as bubble wrap.
Mold requires moist environment. Therefore, minimizing moisture will also reduce mold growth. In addition, attention to ventilation facility can significantly reduce the risk of exposure to toxic mold. A consultation with a ventilation engineer may be the most effective way to ensure that the ventilation system is to do the best job possible.
Finally, when they are moving drugs to and from the police department, officers should use a lockable fence to contain them. This will reduce accidental many potential dangers.
