September 1, 2022
TO:
Travis Dorn
FROM:
Manya Bush Paralegal
RE:
Weatherspoon v. Town Tavern
File No. 1287D
Factual Research on Brittle Bone Disease
Per your instructions regarding the above-captioned matter, I have performed research regarding
injuries that may result from smoke particulates generated during a house fire.
Specific focus
was given to exposure and resulting injuries as they relate to burning roofing materials, as the
McKenna case involves a fire that began on the roof of the McKenna home after it was struck by
lightning.
In attempting to extinguish the fire, Mr. McKenna was overcome by fumes and has
suffered respiratory injuries.
Injuries resulting to firefighters as a result of exposure to smoke particulates were recently
studied under a Department of Homeland Security grant jointly secured by Underwriters
Laboratories, the Chicago Fire Department and the University of Cincinnati College of
Medicine.
Among the key findings was one that addresses our plaintiff’s injuries.
The study confirmed that combustion of certain materials generated asphyxiants, irritants, and
airborne carcinogenic particulates that were a potential health threat.
Among those materials
tested were roofing materials that, when combusted, formed sulfur gas compounds such as sulfur
dioxide and hydrogen sulfide.
When inhaled, sulfur dioxide reacts with the mucous membrane of the lungs to form sulfurous
acid which is a severe irritant. People with asthma, like Mr. McKenna, are particularly
susceptible to this compound in very small amounts.
Sulfur dioxide is an EPA priority air
pollutant but is allowed in the manufacture of many industrial products.
Sources:
Firefighter Exposure to Smoke Particulates
http://www.ul.com/global/documents/offerings/industries/buildingmaterials/fireservice/WEBDO
CUMENTS/EMW-2007-FP-02093%20-%20Executive%20Summary.pdf
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/
