Employees at the Columbus Museum of Art in Ohio have expressed their concerns to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regarding health issues such as headaches and dizziness, believed to stem from a chemical sealant applied to gallery floors.
According to reports from the Columbus Dispatch, the museum recently utilized the floor sealing product GT 275 during renovations in its Ross building. Since the commencement of these renovations, workers have reported ongoing exposure to fumes throughout the facility. A former gallery associate noted that several employees have taken sick leave, and the maintenance team has provided information about the sealer along with N95 masks for protection.
Safety data from the GT 275 manufacturer indicates that inhaling the product can negatively impact the central nervous system, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and headaches. In severe cases, acute overexposure may result in respiratory distress and confusion.
The manufacturer advises that the sealer should only be used outdoors or in well-ventilated spaces, emphasizing the importance of avoiding inhalation of any dust, gas, or vapors associated with its application.
Eric Clift, a former gallery worker, highlighted the unease among staff, stating, "If they stopped work today and gave us all that information, we can't un-breathe what we've already ingested, and who knows what the long-term ramifications could be?" He also pointed out that the museum remained open during renovations, even hosting tours for young children on days when fumes were particularly strong.
In response to the situation, a spokesperson for the Columbus Museum of Art affirmed the institution's commitment to addressing the concerns raised. "We take these issues seriously and are actively reviewing conditions while cooperating with OSHA. The safety of our staff and visitors is paramount, and we will implement necessary measures to maintain a safe environment during the renovation process," the spokesperson stated.