L&I investigating tunnel workers' complaints about breathing dust and fumes

SEATTLE — KIRO-7 has learned the Department of Labor and Industries is now leading two investigations into workers' air quality in the confined workspace of the State Route 99 Tunnel.

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The investigation follows a "safety walkout" last week, with complaints by some tunnel workers that silica dust and fumes from an industrial sealant were not being ventilated properly, and were not safe to breathe. Several workers anonymously told KIRO-7 the fumes and dust made them sick.

Some workers sent photos of the hazy, dusty air inside the tunnel, where workers are sealing paint, and applying fire-retardant concrete, while also grinding concrete.

L&I spokesman Tim Church told KIRO-7 investigators followed several worker complaints and spent two days sampling the air, and interviewing workers. "There was significant vapor and significant odor in the tunnel," Church said.

Contractors were seen hauling large fans into the tunnel last week, but workers said the ventilation did not give them relief.

Tunnel workers speaking to KIRO-7 anonymously said their supervisors gave them inadequate protection from the dust and fumes. "They gave us flimsy masks," one said.

Workers sent us photos of the industrial coatings being applied to surfaces inside the tunnel. Among the warnings on the label: "Causes severe skin burns and eye damage. May cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure. Do not breathe vapor."

As a result of the complaints and some preliminary information gathering, L&I opened formal inspections involving two companies, Seattle Tunnel Partners and Long Painting of Kent, according to Church.

Investigators conducted air sampling, and are reviewing the contractors' air sampling records as well.

Seattle Tunnel Partners sent KIRO-7 this statement:
"Safety is a top priority for Seattle Tunnel Partners and the SR 99 Tunnel Project. As a fundamental principle of our safety culture, STP safety staff takes every complaint seriously and investigates all concerns regarding working conditions. Our goal is to send everyone home safely at the end of every day. We are examining the complaint and will ensure that it receives appropriate attention and resolution."

Cox Media Group