Flooring “varnish” used to refinish a gym in Skokie, Ill., underwent independent testing this fall after a local resident complained to officials last year about the pungent odor that results from the recoating process, which the gym undergoes annually, according to the Chicago Tribune.
Flooring “varnish” used to refinish a gym in Skokie, Ill., underwent independent testing this fall after a local resident complained to officials last year about the pungent odor that results from the recoating process, which the gym undergoes annually, according to the Chicago Tribune.
The area was tested the day of application and five days after application. Testing determined that conditions for patrons and employees were safe, the report stated.
The product used, Sikafloor WP-8.1, an oil-modified urethane finish, did emit higher chemical levels than recommended by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration on the day the product was applied, the article says. However, the area was sealed off to the public at the time, and only protected workers were allowed inside to limit exposure.
"We had citizens who contacted us, and I think you can see we did our due diligence," Catherine Counard, Skokie Park District health director, told the Tribune. "When we receive a complaint like that, we don't want to stand idly by."
