Dear reader,

Do you remember your first car? I was thinking about mine…

It was a mint green 1987 Toyota Corolla, and had previously belonged to my dad. I’m sorry to say that with my limited student funds, I didn’t take as good care of it as I sometimes should’ve. I had a hole in my exhaust for six months. The fumes were eventually so bad my parents paid to fix it!

I didn’t realise that my car problems were affecting more than just me (and occasionally my wallet!).

You’re probably negligent…and don’t even know it!

Someone recently wrote to me on my blog, with a similar complaint concerning cars, but on a grander scale. Here’s what he asked, and the advice I offered…

Question

I work at a company that has the offices next to the warehouse. The offices fill with exhaust fumes if they don’t open the door at the back. I have headaches every day and sometimes feel very sleepy too. I have made complaints but they ignore me. Is there anything I can do?

Answer

If your health is affected, notify management that you’re leaving the premises until they resolve the health risk.

Email the Department of Labour inspector provincial office, with your complaint and:

-    Copies of your appeals to management
-    Details about the office location
-    The vehicle types, diesel or petrol
-    Vehicle sizes and condition
-    Volumes and times of traffic

If you don’t get a response from the DoL within three working days, consult a labour lawyer. Management will probably attempt to delay your action, and to negotiate off the record. Respond only to formal, written communication, and only through a legal representative.

You and your lawyer should also consider obtaining medical advice.

In the name of safety,

Christel Fouché
Editor-In-Chief: Health and Safety Advisor