Concerns Persist Over Carbon Monoxide Exposure at Howard County Library

The Savage Library branch in Howard County has reopened after addressing a significant carbon monoxide issue that led to its closure in late November. The county invested over $92,000 to rectify reported air quality concerns, but staff members still harbor lingering anxieties regarding the situation.

Staff reported feeling faint and foggy, with some requiring hospitalization due to confirmed carbon monoxide poisoning. Following the initial incident, the library experienced over 30 evacuations due to intermittent gas odors, raising ongoing safety concerns among employees.

Charles Smalls, a staff member, emphasized the need for clarity on the root cause of the problem, stating, "Finding that answer, finding that piece is, I think the only way that this is going to get put to bed." The library has not had to evacuate in the past month, a significant improvement from the earlier frequency of incidents.

Sabrina Moorer, a part-time employee, voiced her apprehensions about the health implications for young patrons, noting her proactive measures to improve ventilation in the library. "I am very anxious about the teens being in the library or young children being in the library and the health effects that might have on them," she said.

The county has taken extensive measures to ensure safety, including the installation of 32 carbon monoxide detectors and additional gas detection devices. Independent evaluations conducted by BGE and HVAC contractors have not identified any hazardous levels of gas or carbon monoxide in the building.

Despite these assurances, staff members remain uneasy, with some having left their positions due to the ongoing issues. Smalls remarked on the need for more transparency and answers regarding the underlying problems that led to the safety concerns.

Samantha Cobb, director of the Department of General Services, reiterated the county's commitment to addressing all complaints and ensuring public health safety. "Since concerns were first reported, we have taken every complaint seriously and responded promptly to each report of an odor or air quality concern," Cobb stated.

Reported by HarborBeat based on WMAR-2 News (source).