Document xj1b55mppGMGDrgnmggB4XnB1

Workers International Union AFL-CIO-CLC LOCAL NO. 235 P. 0. Box 1601 Corpus Christi. TX 78403 DRAFT VIA HAND DELIVERY August 18, 1995 Mr. Arlon Boatman Reynolds Metals Company Sherwin Alumina Plant P.O. Box 9911 Highway 361 Gregory, Texas 78469 Re: Asbestos Surveillance Program Dear Mr. Boatman: In view of the increasing number of active and retired members of Local 235 who have been diagnosed with asbestos diseases and cancers, Local 235 would like to work with Reynolds Metals in establishing an Asbestos Surveillance Program. Many of our members have asked us to explain to them whether there is an asbestos health risk at the plant, what the risks are, and what is being done to reduce or eliminate the risks. Our older members who began working at the Sherwin Plant before 1970 are especially concerned because of the known lag time it takes for asbestosis and cancer to spring up. In order to better educate our members, and in the spirit of cooperation, we are requesting the following information: (1) What are the applicable government standards for exposure to floating asbestos fibers? What are the standards for aluminum oxides? Electromagnetic fields? Coal tar pitch volatiles? (2) How long have these standards been in effect? Have they changed over time? (3) What are the asbestos dust count results for the following areas at the Sherwin Plant: -- the power house -- the digestion area -- the clarification area --the filtration area -- the evaporator control area -- the break, eating, locker room, and shower areas We would appreciate a copy of any asbestos dust count studies taken at any of these sites in the past 10 to 15 years. When did Reynolds first begin measuring asbestos levels in the air at the Sherwin Plant? (4) What areas of the plant today have asbestos in place? What areas have undergone asbestos abatement? Is Reynolds planning on abating or removing asbestos from any other areas inside the Sherwin plant? (5) What efforts has Reynolds taken at the Sherwin plant over the years to comply with applicable state and federal regulations on asbestos exposure? Has Reynolds conducted an audit on the potential hazards at the plant for ail types of dusts, metals, fumes and gases? (6) When did Reynolds first begin requiring the use of asbestos-free products for insulation and other purposes at the Sherwin Plant? This is especially important to our younger members. (7) What steps does Reynolds recommend for minimizing the worker's exposure to asbestos? Does Reynolds already have an asbestos training program or risk reduction program in place? If so, we would like to strengthen the program so that everyone can better protect their health. We would like to be able to meet with you at your convenience to discuss these issues. If you will provide us with any memoranda addressing the above issues in advance, we will be better able to zero in on any prcblem areas at the meeting. We appreciate your cooperation. Respectfully, Aluminum, Brick & Glass Workers, Local 235 Mary Jackson Richard Rock Phil Madrid Ken Haggard Alex Mair George Rosas