Loading...
MEETING PACKET MARCH 2012 CITY UI SALIJM, M-ASSACHUSIJT I'S BOARD OF HEALTH 120 WAS STREET 4"'FLOOR �bl1CHP�tkh � V'revm f.Pmmut e.Protect. TEL. (978) 741-1800 FAX(978) 745-0343 KIMBERLEY DRISCOLL lxamdin@salem.com ARRY R;ANID1N,RS/R[�l IS,CI 10,CP-1�s MMAYORL 1I1;A1:1'II AGI%N'C NOTICE OF MEETING You are hereby notified that the Salem Board of Health will hold its regularly scheduled meeting Tuesday,March 13, 2012 at 7.00 PM City Hall Annex, 120 Washington St Room 311 MEETING AGENDA 1. Call to order 2. Approval of Minutes from Januaryl0, 2012, &Executive Session minutes from Dec 14, 2010, January 19, 2011, February 8, 2011, March 8 2011 &March 31, 2011 3. Chairperson Announcements 4. Public Health Announcements/ReportsiUpdates a. Health Agent b. Public Health Nurse c. Administrative d. Councilor Liaison 5. Discussion of reduction in number of Board Members and Department Head Title 6. Mutual Aid Agreement Region 3D—(North Shore Cape Ann Emergency Preparedness Program) 7. Ellen Gould with The Polish Family-Dental Hygienist 8. Miscellaneous 9. Adjournment Larry Ramdin Health Agent cc: Mayor Kimberley Driscoll, Board of Health, City Councilors Next regularly scheduled meeting is April 10, 2012 at 7pm at City Hall Annex, 120 Washington Street Room 311 Know your rights under the open meeting law MGL Chapter 39 Section 23B and City Ordinance section 2-2028 through 2-2033 KI CITY OFSALEM, NL\ss1\CHUS1-1-YTS 10 BOARD()[`FfF-\1A'H 120 WASHINGTON STREF.T,4"' FLO(M Pul)&Health Ti;,j- (978) 741-1800 F,\x(978) 745-0343 KIMBFRIAN DRISCOLL liat-nditi(a.salcm.com t2\NIDIN,16/10,A Is,CI R),(:I'-I,'S 1NlAY(.)R 111: 1 A(;1,"NT NOTICE OF MEETING rn rn :r > You are hereby notified that the Salem Board of Health will hold its regularly 4edult j meeting Tuesday, March 13, 2012 at 7.-00 PM City Hall Annex, 120 Washington St. Room 311 MEETING AGENDA 1. Call to order 2. Approval of Minutes from Januaryl 0, 2012, & Executive Session minutes from Dec 14, 2010, January 19, 2011, February 8, 2011, March 8 2011 & March 31, 2011 3. Chairperson Announcements 10 '44 4. Public Health Announcements/Reports/Updates a. Health Agent I • b. Public Health Nurse 3 10 c. Administrative Ub 0 d. Councilor Liaison 9P 5. Discussion of reduction in number of Board Members and Department Head Title 6. Mutual Aid Agreement Region 3D— (North Shore Cape Ann Emergency Preparedness Program) 0 7. Ellen Gould with The Polish Family-Dental Hygienist 8. Miscellaneous 0 OD C 9. Adjournment Larry Ramdin Health Agent an cc: Mayor Kimberley Driscoll, Board of Health, City Councilors Next regularly scheduled meeting is April 10, 2012 at 7pm at City Hall Annex, 120 Washington Street Room 311 Know your rights under the open meeting law MGL Chapter 39 Section 23B and City Ordinance section 2-2028 through 2-2033 CITY OF SALEM BOARD OF HEALTH EXECUTIVE SESSION MINUTES of OCTOBER 14, 2010 MEMBERS PRESENT: Dr. Barbara Poremba, Chairperson Gayle Sullivan Kemith LeBlanc Martin Fair MEMBERS EXCUSED: Mark Salinas Dr. Larissa Lucas The Chairperson stated the Board would convene an executive session for the purpose of reviewing resumes of applicants for the Health Agent position. The Board voted unanimously to go into executive session. • The Chairperson distributed copies of resumes that she had obtained from HR. The Board reviewed the resumes. They were collected and the members reminded of their confidentiality. It was the consensus of the Board to re-advertise the position. • CITY OF SALEM BOARD OF HEALTH EXECUTIVE SESSION MEETING MINUTES of DECEMBER 14, 2010 MEMBERS PRESENT: Dr. Barbara Poremba, Chairperson Dr. Larissa Lucas Kemith LeBlanc Martin Fair Gayle Sullivan MEMBERS EXCUSED: Marc Salinas The Chairperson stated that the Board would convene an executive session for the purpose of reviewing resumes that had been submitted by applicants for the Health Agent position and that the Board would adjourn following the executive session. The Board unanimously voted to convene an executive session. The Chairperson distributed the resumes of applicants for the Health Agent position that she had gotten from the HR Department. After reviewing the resumes it was the consensus of the Board to interview three of the candidates during an executive session on January 11, 2011. The Chairperson was to notify HR to schedule the interviews. • • CITY OF SALEM BOARD OF HEALTH EXECUTIVE SESSION MINUTES of JANUARY 11, 2011 MEMBERS PRESENT: Dr. Barbara Poremba, Chairperson Martin Fair Gayle Sullivan Dr. Larissa Lucas Kemith LeBlanc Marc Salinas • The Chairperson stated the Board would convene an executive session for the purpose of conducting preliminary interviews of two applicants for the Health Agent position and would adjourn after the executive session. The Board voted unanimously to convene the executive session. The Board interviewed one applicant for the Health Agent position. The second candidate was unable to interview that evening due to his required attendance at another meeting in preparation of the snowstorm. It was the consensus of the Board to extend the gentleman a second opportunity for an interview on January 19, 2011 at 6:00 pm. • CITY OF SALEM BOARD OF HEALTH EXECUTIVE SESSION MEETING MINUTES of January 19, 2011 MEMBERS PRESENT: None The gentleman to be interviewed notified the Board he was withdrawing his interest in the Health Agent position and the meeting was cancelled. • • CITY OF SALEM BOARD OF HEALTH EXECUTIVE SESSION MINUTES of FEBRUARY 8, 2011 MEMBERS PRESENT: Dr. Barbara Poremba, Chairperson Kemith LeBlanc Martin Fair Marc Salinas Gayle Sullivan MEMBERS EXCUSED: Dr. Larissa Lucas The Chairperson stated the Board would convene an executive session for the purpose of discussion of applicants for the Health Agent position and that the Board would adjourn following the executive session. The Board voted unanimously to go into executive session. Discussion took place about the qualities and strengths of the applicant for the Health Agent position. The consensus of the Board was to not schedule a public interview with the candidate. A motion was made and seconded to appoint David Greenbaum to the Health Agent position. The motion failed. CITY OF SALEM BOARD OF HEALTH EXECUTIVE SESSION MEETING MINUTES MARCH 8, 2011 MEMBERS PRESENT: Dr. Barbara Poremba, Chairperson Dr. Larissa Lucas Marc Salinas Martin Fair Gayle Sullivan MEMBERS EXCUSED: Kemith LeBlanc The Chairperson stated that the Board would convene an executive session for the purpose of reviewing the resume of a candidate for the Health Agent position and that the Board would adjourn following the executive session. By a vote of 5 ayes, 0 nays the Board voted to go into executive session. The Board reviewed Mr. Ramdin's CV and was impressed with his qualifications. It was the consensus of the Board to encourage him to send a letter of interest in the position and three written references to the Human Resources Department and to contact Mr. Ramdin to see if he would be available for a preliminary interview on March 31, 2011. • CITY OF SALEM BOARD OF HEALTH MEETING MINUTES of March 31, 2011, 6-7:30 pm Members present: Dr. Barbara Poremba Dr. Larissa Lucas Gayle Sullivan Kemith LeBlanc Martin Fair Members Excused: Mark Salinas Others present: Larry Ramdin The meeting was called to order by Dr. Barbara Poremba. The members unanimously voted to go into executive session for a preliminary interview with Larry Ramdin for the Health Agent's position and to adjourn after the executive session. The members asked questions of Mr. Ramdin including, his qualifications, education, experience, vision of the future of public health, and special projects he had worked on. After the interview Mr. Ramdin was excused. The Board discussed his candidacy and voted to invite him to the next regularly scheduled Board of Health Meeting for a second interview. CITY OF SALEM MASSACHUSETTS BOARD OF HEALTH 120 WASHINGTON STREET,4111 FLOOR PubliCHealth Prevent.Promote.Protect. • TEL. (978) 741-1800 FA,,,7 (978) 745-0343 KIMBERLEY DRISCOLL Itamctin@salem.com 7�,{� LARIt1'RAMDIN,RS/.R[;1=1S,CIA(),Cl?-I'S MAYOR H1=?A1,Tll 11C.iJ N1' LVi Health Agent Report February 2012 Announcements • Larry Ramdin, and Elizabeth Gagakis attended the Annual Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Seminar on February 23. At the seminar they discussed: Boil water orders, wind turbines, changes to DEP regulations, : Changes to title 5 Sewer connection and extension approval elimination. • The Students in the Expect program have started to develop a Facebook page, a blog, twitter account and are securing a Patch account and will be posting articles in the near future. • The Branding project class has presented their initial designs . The designs were well thought out and they are moving to the next phase in their design work. • Department budget for FY 2013 was submitted, we are asking for an additional Clerk and increases in the overtime budget • Interviews were conducted for the Sanitarian vacancy and we have selected a candidate. A candidate has been offered the position pending medical and background clearance. • We are leading an effort to review permitting/inspection software for use by City Departments to enhance the inspection and permitting processes and reduce/streamline the permitting application process for customer • Larry Ramdin attended a Mass in Motion institute training on February 29 in Framingham. The program discussed ways to improve health in the community and reduce the risk factors for chronic illnesses. • The Health Agent met with owners of 4 potential businesses to discuss their operations and Public Health requirements • A team (Building, Fire, and Public Health) inspection was conducted at Loring Towers examining the common areas per complaint from Paul Lima. It took some time putting the team together because of conflicting schedules and Staff shortages. There were no major observed violations of the State sanitary code. The building owner was ordered to correct the violation noted. • The Public Health Nurse position has been posted and interviews are scheduled. • Other Activities Inspections • 39 Certificate of Fitness Inspections • 9 Food inspections • 24 Housing Inspections • 19 Nuisance/Trash Complaints • 2 meeting attended • 1 seminars • 2 Court Hearings • • lip® CITY OF SALEM' MASSACHUSETTS �l BOARD OF HEALTH 120 WASHINGTON STREET 4:'*"FLOOR PublicHealth • t Prevent.Promote.Protect. TEL. (978) 741-1800 FAx(978) 745-0343 KIMBERLEY DRISCOLL Iramdin@salem.com LARItI'RAMDIN,RS/RI_J IS,CL-IO,C]?-L�S MAYOR Hh:A n-1 AC; NXI' Health Agent Report January 2012 Announcements • Tracy Giarla Public Health Nurse has tendered her resignation effective February 9, 2012. Ms. Giarla has accepted a position as the Public Health Nurse in Marblehead • Larry Ramdin David Greenbaum and Elizabeth Gagakis attended a Massachusetts Environmental Health Seminar on Onsite Wastewater Disposal for Local Health officials. The seminar discusses issues on onsite waste water disposal and alternative methods for disposal. • Larry Ramdin and Tracy Giarla attended MA Responds Administrator, the training allows them to send messages for assistance over the MA responds system in the vent of a Public Health emergency • Larry Ramdin David Greenbaum and Elizabeth Gagakis attended a seminar on Bedbugs that dealt with detection and treatment of bedbugs. • The Healthy Salem Collaboration with Salem State University has begun the active phase. There are 2 projects ongoing a Branding project and a project that will market Local Public Health to the community and is designed to convey information to Salem residents on what their Board of Health does. • The Health Agent attended meetings on a proposed rooming house ordinance; the ordinance will address the health safety and other concerns about rooming houses in the City of Salem. Other Activities Inspections • 56 Certificate of Fitness Inspections • 32 Food inspections • 21 Housing Inspections - • 1 Nuisance/Trash Complaints • 1 meeting attended • 4 seminars • Administration Monthly Report January-12 Burial Permits @$25.00 $1,125.00 Permits $7,095.00 Certificate of Fitness@$50.00 $2,450.00 Fines Q Total Monies Collected = $10,670.00 Annual Budget Expended Available Balance Total Salary/Longevity $344,000.00 ® $188,622.51 $155,377.49 Annual Budget Expended Available Balance Non-Personnel $19,600.00 ® $15,874.85 $3,725.15 Administration Monthly Report February-12 Burial Permits @$25.00 $900.00 Permits $2,455.00 Certificate of Fitness@$50.00 $1,800.00 Fines a Total Monies Collected = $5,155.00 Annual Budget Expended Available Balance Total Salary/Longevity $344,000.00 ® $209,149.93 $134,850.07 Annual Budget Expended Available Balance Non-Personnel $19,600.00 ® $15,732.85 $3,867.15 " CITY OF SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS IE K. BOARD OF HE:A TI-i • 120 WASHINGTON STREET,4�"FLOOR KIMBERLEY DRISCOLL TEL. (978) 741-1800 FAX(978) 745-0343 MAYOR Iramdin@salem.com LARRY RAMDIN,RS/R1?IIS,CI'IO,CP-IDS HEALTH AG FNT Public Health Nurse Report January 2012 Activities Disease Prevention • In contact with North Shore Pulmonary Clinic regarding active TB cases and case contacts. • Investigated communicable disease cases and reported to the MDPH. • DOT Monday through Friday for Active TB Case. Meetings/Clinics Attended NSCAEP Coalition Meeting in Peabody to discuss upcoming drills. • Received Maven Training for TB Certification. Attended the Mass Responds Computer Training Program for calling up volunteers in an emergency. MONTHLY REPORT OF COMMUNICABLE DISEASE DECEMBER 201 1 DISEASE NEW CARRY OVER DISCHARGED REPORTED LYME DISEASE 0 0 0 0 HEPATITIS C 2 0 2 2 CAMPY 1 0 1 1 TUBERCULOSIS 0 2 0 1 VARICELLA 0 0 O 0 • CAMPYLOBACTER: 12 MO. MALE. TRAVELED TO DOMINICAN REPUBLIC DURING INCUBATION PERIOD. DAY CARE NOTIFIED. DAY CARE INSPECTION CONDUCTED WITH • DAVID GREENBAUM. PUBLIC HEALTH FACT SHEETS PROVIDED TO DIRECTOR. CHILD MAY RETURN AFTER DIARRHEA HAS RESOLVED. TB: ELDERLY MALE. ARRIVED IN US IN SEPTEMBER 201 1 . ABNORMAL CXR. 4 HOUSEHOLD CONTACTS. THREE SKIN TESTED NEGATIVE, ONE WAS PAST POSITIVE, BUT HAS DECLINED LATENT TB TREATMENT. TB: TODDLER FEMALE. SHE IS CONTINUING HER TREATMENT AT CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL BOSTON, INFECTION CONTROL UNIT. SHE WILL FINISH HER TB TREATMENT IN AUGUST OF 2012. TB: 31 Y/O FEMALE. MOVED TO THE MIDWEST. DIVISION OF TB CONTROL SENT INTERSTATE NOTIFICATION LETTER. SHE IS ALSO RECEIVING DOT IN THIS STATE. SHE WILL COMPLETE THERAPY IN APRIL 2012. HEPATITIS C: TWO CHRONIC CASES,NO FOLLOW UP NEEDED. • • National Association of Local Boards of Health Bowling Green,OH Greetingsl 1840 East Gypsy Lane Road Bowling Green,OH43402 Ph:(419)353-7714 We recently your dues payment received r d for membership in.the National Association of Local Fax:(419)352-627*8 Boards of Health (NALBOH). Thank you for investing in your board members and for connecting them to the information, expertise,and resources we offer. nalboh@nalboh.org wwwnalboh.org . As an Institutional Member, all members of your board receive Member benefits, which include: Chief Executive Officer Personal copies of the NALBOH NEWSBRIEF, a quarterly publication for busy board Marie M.Fallon(ox) of health members • Monthly email updates featuring relevant news, information, and learning Executive Officers opportunities Steve Scan)in(ID) . Access:to guidance and assistance from NALBOH's Board of Directors,staff; and President national network of issue experts Robert Blackburn.(rrc) Exclusive access:to Members Onl content.on the NALBOH website President-Elect y Ed Schneider(tvi) Special,pricing on NALBOH resources and.the.annual conference, which will be held Past President in Atlanta, Georgia from August 8-10,2012 Shirley Greene(m) SecretaryrTreasurer. . i To,get thelmost.out.of your board's Institutional Membership, please do the.following: Re East' na1 Directors 1. Review the contents of this Welcome Packet to familiarize yourself with the services Terwoord.�oii) we offer cLakesRegon 2 : Complete and return the enclosed Institutional Member Contact Form to ensure your Robert Wheeler board receives the full benefits of Membership Mid Atlantic Region ... 3. Share the "l0.Essential Services"bookmarks with your:board members, and let us Marlene Wilken m) know if there are other resources you need Midwest Region 4, �Add www.nalboh.org.to your favorite webSiteS and make sure to check out.the Carolyn Wysocki.(Cr) 'downloadable documents in.our Members.Only.Area(password empower) New New England:Region, Scott Kroell.(GA) By simply joining NALBOH, your board members'receive.many great benefits"but when they sontheastRegion become;actively involved with NALBOH and participate in its activities and events,they reap Ann Benson(uz):. even greater rewards. Please contact me at(4.19) 353-7714 or tim @ nalboh.org anytime you West Region have a question or need additional information.Thanks again for partnering with NALBOH as James Steckerawn we work to strengthen and improve public health governance! West Great Lakes Region John.Rodwick(co) . Sincerely, State AfSliate Mike Huber(u 1) State Affiliate t ION Tim Tegge Director, Member Development.&Partnerships & G�� � "Oe BOPRQ - Working to Strengthen&Improve Public Health Governance National Association of Local Boards of Health The Benefits of Institutional Membership Thank you for joining NALBOH, where we believe an informed and engaged board of health is the essential link between the health department and a healthy community. We've created an array of Member benefits designed to help busy board members stay connected to relevant information, create a culture of continuous quality improvement,and become better advocates for public health. Your Institutional Membership benefits include: • Access to the Members Only content on the NALBOH website • Free publications from the NALBOH Resource Catalog (see chart below) • Copies of the quarterly NALBOH NEWSBRIEF publication for all members of your board • Monthly Board of Health Brief e-bulletin and issue-speci:fic.NEWSALERTs • Technical assistance from NALBOH staff, Board of Directors,and national network of issue experts • Discounts on NALBOH products, publications, and merchandise Accreditation support and guidance Access to NALBOH grants and scholarships ; .Voting rights in NALBOH elections Simply joining"NALBOH entitles you to receive many great benefits. However,'it's when you become actively involved with NALBOH and participate in its many activities and events that you reap even greater rewards! As,an Institutional Member of NALBOH, individual members of your board are eligible-o serve on NALBOH committees and the NALBOH Board of Directors. They also receive special pricing Y when the attend the • NALBOH Annual Conference, which is being held this.upcoming year from August 8-10 at the Hyatt Regencyin downtown Atlanta, Georgia (see chart below). Membership Category Number of Free Number of Discounted Publications C• • ns Local,Board—Institutional Population 1 All board members plus less than 50,000 4 free�items ( 1 additional discounted registration Local Board—Institutional Population 8 free items All board members plus (50,000 .199,999 - ) 2 additional discounted registrations Local Board—Institutional Popula,tion.3 All board members plus (200,000-999,999 12 free items 3 additional discounted registrations Local Board-.Institutional Population 4 All board members plus (1 million+) 16 free items 4 additional discounted registrations Tribal Board-Institutional 4 free items All board members plus 1additionaldiscounted registration State Board-Institutional 16 free items All board members plus 4 additional discounted registrations • Questions? Contact Tim Tegge at(419)353-7714 or tim@nalboh.org. • --------------- National Association of Local Boards of Health The Benefits of Institiutional Membership Thank YOU for joining NALBOH, where we believe an informed and engaged board of health is the essential link between the health department and a healthy community. We've created an array of Member benefits designed,to help busy board members stay connected to relevant information, create a culture of continuous quality improvement;and become better advocates for public health. Your Institutional Membership benefits include: • Access to the Members Only content on the NALBOH website • Free publications from the NALBOH Resource Catalog (see chart below) • Copies of the quarterly NALBOH NEWSBRIEF publication for all members of your board • Monthly Board of Health Brief e-bulletin and issue-specifiic NEWSALERTs. • Technical assistance from NALBOH staff, Board of Directors,and national network of issue experts • Discounts on NALBOH products, publications,-and merchandise Accreditation sup port and guidance • Access to NALBOH grants and scholarships • Voting rights in.NALBOH elections Simply joinmg.NALBOH entitles you to receive many great benefits. However, it's when you become active) involved with NALBOH and participate in its many activities.and events that you reap even greater rewards! *As an institutional Member of NALBOH, individual members of your board are eligible to serve on NALBOH' committees and the NALBOH.Board of Direct s.ors. They also receive special pricing-when they attend the...NALBOH,Annual Conference, which is being held this:upcoming year from August 8-10 at the Hyatt Regency in downtown Atlanta, Georgia .(see chart belowMembership Category Number of Free Number of Discounted Publications Conference Registrations Local.Board-institutional Population 1 (Less than s0,000) 4 free items All board members plus 1 additional :discounted registration ----------------- Local Board—Institutional Population 2 (50,000 .199,999) 8 free items All board members plus 2 additional discounted registrations Local-Board-Institutional Population.3 (200,000-999,999) 12 free items All board members plus 3 additional discounted.registrations Local:Board Institutional Population 4 (1'million+) . 16 free items .:All board.members plus 4 additional discounted registrations Tribal Board—institutional 4 free items All board members plus 1 additional discounted registration State Board `Institutional 16 free items All board members plus 4 additional discounted registrations Questions? Contact Tim Tegge at(419)353-7714 or tim@nalboh,org. Your AL60H �, Team " NALBO'H 2012 Board of Directors NALBOH Committees Steve Scanlin (ID) H.Scott Kroell (GA) Board Governance President Southeast Region Bylaws Robert Blackburn (NC) Ann Benson (UT) President-Elect West Region Education &Training Ed Schneider(NE) James Stecker(WI) Environmental Health Past President West Great Lakes Region performance.Standards&Accreditation Shirley Greene(ID) John Rodwick(CO) Chronic Disease&Tobacco Use Prevention Secretary/Treasurer State Affiliate Emeritus Nancy Terwoord (OH) Mike Huber(UT) East Great Lakes Region State Affiliate Public Policy. Robert Wheeler(WV) Anthony Santarsiero(GA). State Association of Local Boards of Health (SALBOH) Mid Atlantic Region Ex Officio - Membership Marlene Wilken(NE) : .Ned Baker(OH) Midwest Region Ex Officio NALBOH relies on board members and other Volunteers to guide its work and is looking for Carolyn Wysocki (CT) Marie Fallon (OH) individuals to serve on our committees/workgroups. New England Region Chief Executive Officer If you would like information about serving on a - NALBOH committee,please contact us. NALBOH Staff Marie Fallon,EdD Tricia Valasek,MPH Ned Baker, MP �*0Z , Chief Executive Officer Senior Project.Director.. SALBOH Liaison ' � g - marie@nalboh.org ....Public Health Priorities ned@nalbohr S . `tricia@nalboh.org Tracy Schupp Bethany Grose,,IVP Director—Operations Carrie Hribar, MA Project na"I Coordi . tract'@nalboh.org Project Director bethany@nalboh.org' Public Health Policy Tim Tegge Carrie@nalboh.org Nicole Ruffing Director—Member Development Administrative Assistant &Partnerships Mark Schultz, MEd nicole@na16h org ....-,' tim@nalboh.org Publications Manager. - mark@nalboh.org t ranco,MSEPH re4 rogram.Planning& Amy Smith,BA State Relations Coordinator @nalboh.org. amy@nalboh.org `FNALBOH is h re to support you! If we can be of any assistance, please.contact us! National Association of Local Boards of Health Email Yes, sign me up! Simply provide the following information to receive email information about NALBOH's programs and events. You may also sign up by visiting www.nalboh.org. Name: Organization/Board of Health Affiliation: State: Email Address: Please tell us.which topics you would like to receive email alerts on by selecting one or more of the following topics: EEnvironmental Health ]A:monthyemai/with current trends,articles, and.new resources in the environmental health field. Nutrition, Physical Activity,and Obesity A quarter/yemai/focusing on.healthy lifestyles, nutrition,.physical activity, and obesity prevention. Prevention Connection A quarterly emai/detailin evidence-based interventions to improve public health.and prevent 9 P P p e ent disease to your community: DPublic Health Advocary A time sensitive emaiikeeping you up-to-date on important legislative issues and advocacy efforts. Quality/Performance Improvement A quarterly emai/filled with information on quality improvement and performance improvement initiatives. []Tobacco,Use Prevention and Control A monthly emaiipacked with timely information on tobacco use prevention tools and resources. Informafioa provided wBl not be sold to a 3rd party or used for any purpose other than receiving information from NALB01 Please send completed form to: NALBOH, 1840 East Gypsy Lane Road, Bowling Green, OH 43402 or fax to(419.) 352-6278. This form may be copied.or dupiicated'as needed. WIND TURBINE HEALTH IMPACT STUDY �. Executive Summary The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection(MassDEP) in collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH)convened a panel of independent experts to identify any documented or potential health impacts of risks that may be associated with exposure to wind turbines, and, specifically, to facilitate discussion of wind turbines and public health based on scientific findings. While the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has goals for increasing the use of wind energy from the current 40 MW to 2000 MW by the year 2020, MassDEP recognizes there are questions and concerns arising from harnessing wind energy. The scope of the Panel's effort was focused on health impacts of wind turbines per se. The panel was not charged with considering any possible benefits of avoiding adverse effects of other energy sources such as coal, oil, and natural gas as a result of switching to energy from wind turbines. Currently, "regulation" of wind turbines is done at the local level through local boards of health and zoning boards. Some members of the public have raised concerns that wind turbines may have health impacts related to noise, infrasound, vibrations, or shadow flickering generated • by the turbines. The goal of the Panel's evaluation and report is to provide a review of the science that explores these concerns and provides useful information to MassDEP and MDPH and to local agencies that are often asked to respond to such concerns. The Panel consists of seven individuals with backgrounds in public health, epidemiology, toxicology,neurology and sleep medicine,neuroscience, and mechanical engineering. All of the Panel members are considered independent experts from academic institutions. In conducting their evaluation, the Panel conducted an extensive literature review of the scientific literature as well as other reports, popular media, and the public comments received by the MassDEP. ES-1 Page WIND TURBINE HEALTH IMPACT STUDY • ES 1. Panel Charge 1. Identify and characterize attributes of concern(e.g., noise, infrasound, vibration, and light flicker) and identify any scientifically documented or potential connection between health impacts associated with wind turbines located on land or coastal tidelands that can impact land-based human receptors. 2. Evaluate and discuss information from peer reviewed scientific studies,other reports,popular media, and public comments received by the MassDEP and/or in response to the Environmental Monitor Notice and/or by the MDPH on the nature and type of health complaints commonly reported by individuals who reside near existing wind farms. 3 Assess the magnitude and frequency of any potential impacts and risks to human health associated with the design and operation of wind energy turbines based on existing data. 4. For the attributes of concern, identify documented best practices that could reduce potential human health impacts. Include examples of such best practices (design, operation, maintenance, and management from published articles). The best practices could be used to inform public policy decisions by state, local, or regional governments concerning the siting • of turbines. 5. Issue a report within 3 months of the evaluation, summarizing its findings. ES 2. Process To meet its charge, the Panel conducted an extensive literature review and met as a group a total of three times. In addition, calls were also held with Panel members to further clarify points of discussion. An independent facilitator supported the Panel's deliberations. Each Panel member provided written text based on the literature reviews and analyses. Draft versions of the report were reviewed by each Panel member and the Panel reached consensus for the final text and its findings. ES 3. Report Introduction and Description Many countries have turned to wind power as a clean energy source because it relies on the wind,which is indefinitely renewable; it is generated"locally,"thereby providing a measure of energy independence; and it produces no carbon dioxide emissions when operating. There is interest in pursuing wind energy both on-land and offshore. For this report, however,the focus is on land-based installations and all comments are focused on this technology. Land-based • ES-2 P a g e WIND TURBINE HEALTH IMPACT STUDY • wind turbines currently range from 100 kW to 3 MW(3000 kW). In Massachusetts, the largest turbine is currently 1.8 MW. The development of modern wind turbines has been.an evolutionary design process, applying optimization at many levels. An overview of the characteristics of wind turbines,noise, and vibration is presented in Chapter 2 of the report. Acoustic and seismic measurements of noise and vibration from wind turbines provide a context for comparing measurements from epidemiological studies and for claims purported to be due to emissions from wind turbines. Appendices provide detailed descriptions and equations that allow a more in-depth understanding of wind energy,the structure of the turbines,wind turbine aerodynamics, installation, energy production, shadow flicker, ice throws,wind turbine noise,noise propagation, infrasound, and stall vs.pitch controlled turbines. Extensive literature searches and reviews were conducted to identify studies that specifically evaluate human population responses to turbines, as well as population and individual responses to the three primary characteristics or attributes of wind turbine operation: noise, vibration, and flicker. An emphasis of the Panel's efforts was to examine the biological • plausibility or basis for health effects of turbines (noise,vibration,and flicker). Beyond traditional forms of scientific publications, the Panel also took great care to review other non- peer reviewed materials regarding the potential for health effects including information related to "Wind Turbine Syndrome"and provides a rigorous analysis as to whether there is scientific basis for it. Since the most commonly reported complaint by people living near turbines is sleep disruption, the Panel provides a robust review of the relationship between noise,vibration,and annoyance as well as sleep disturbance from noises and the potential impacts of the resulting sleep deprivation. In assessing the state of the evidence for health effects of wind turbines, the Panel followed accepted scientific principles and relied on several different types of studies. It considered human studies of the most important or primary value. These were either human epidemiological studies specifically relating to exposure to wind turbines or,where specific exposures resulting from wind turbines could be defined,the panel also considered human experimental data. Animal studies are critical to exploring biological plausibility and understanding potential biological mechanisms of different exposures,and for providing information about possible health effects when experimental research in humans is not ethically • ES-31Page WIND TURBINE HEALTH IMPACT STUDY • or practically possible. As such, this literature was also reviewed with respect to wind turbine exposures. The non-peer reviewed material was considered part of the weight of evidence. In all cases, data quality was considered; at times, some studies were rejected because of lack of rigor or the interpretations were inconsistent with the scientific evidence. ES 4. Findings The findings in Chapter 4 are repeated here. Based on the detailed review of the scientific literature and other available reports and consideration of the strength of scientific evidence,the Panel presents findings relative to three factors associated with the operation of wind turbines: noise and vibration, shadow flicker, and ice throw. The findings that follow address specifics in each of these three areas. ES 4.1 Noise ES 4.La Production of Noise and Vibration by Wind Turbines 1. Wind turbines can produce unwanted sound(referred to as noise)during operation. The nature of the sound depends on the design of the wind turbine. Propagation of the sound is primarily a function of distance,but it can also be affected by the placement of the • turbine, surrounding terrain, and atmospheric conditions. a. Upwind and downwind turbines have different sound characteristics,primarily due to the interaction of the blades with the zone of reduced wind speed behind the tower in the case of downwind turbines. b. Stall regulated and pitch controlled turbines exhibit differences in their dependence of noise generation on the wind speed c. Propagation of sound is affected by refraction of sound due to temperature gradients,reflection from hillsides, and atmospheric absorption. Propagation effects have been shown to lead to different experiences of noise by neighbors. d. The audible, amplitude-modulated noise from wind turbines ("whooshing")is perceived to increase in intensity at night(and sometimes becomes more of a "thumping")due to multiple effects: i)a stable atmosphere will have larger wind gradients, ii)a stable atmosphere may refract the sound downwards instead of upwards, iii)the ambient noise near the ground is lower both because of the stable atmosphere and because human generated noise is often lower at night. • ES-4 Page WIND TURBINE HEALTH IMPACT STUDY 2. The sound power level of a typical modern utility scale wind turbine is on the order of 103 dB(A),but can be somewhat higher or lower depending on the details of the design and the rated power of the turbine. The perceived sound decreases rapidly with the distance from the wind turbines. Typically, at distances larger than 400 in, sound pressure levels for modern wind turbines are less than 40 dB(A),which is below the level associated with annoyance in the epidemiological studies reviewed. 3. Infrasound refers to vibrations with frequencies below 20 Hz. Infrasound at amplitudes over 100-110 dB can be heard and felt. Research has shown that vibrations below these amplitudes are not felt. The highest infrasound levels that have been measured near turbines and reported in the literature near turbines are under 90 dB at 5 Hz and lower at higher frequencies for locations as close as 100 in. 4. Infrasound from wind turbines is not related to nor does it cause a"continuous whooshing." 5. Pressure waves at any frequency(audible or infrasonic)can cause vibration in another structure or substance. In order for vibration to occur, the amplitude(height)of the wave • has to be high enough, and only structures or substances that have the ability to receive the wave(resonant frequency)will vibrate. ES 4.L b Health Impacts of Noise and Vibration 1. Most epidemiologic literature on human response to wind turbines relates to self-reported "annoyance,"and this response appears to be a function of some combination of the sound itself,the sight of the turbine, and attitude towards the wind turbine project. a. There is limited epidemiologic evidence suggesting an association between exposure to wind turbines and annoyance. b. There is insufficient epidemiologic evidence to determine whether there is an association between noise from wind turbines and annoyance independent from the effects of seeing a wind turbine and vice versa. • ES-5 Page WIND TURBINE HEALTH IMPACT STUDY • 2. There is limited evidence from epidemiologic studies suggesting an association between noise from wind turbines and sleep disruption. In other words, it is possible that noise from some wind turbines can cause sleep disruption. 3. A very loud wind turbine could cause disrupted sleep,particularly in vulnerable populations, at a certain distance, while a very quiet wind turbine would not likely disrupt even the lightest of sleepers at that same distance. But there is not enough evidence to provide particular sound-pressure thresholds at which wind turbines cause sleep disruption. Further study would provide these levels. 4. Whether annoyance from wind turbines leads to sleep issues or stress has not been sufficiently quantified. While not based on evidence of wind turbines, there is evidence that sleep disruption can adversely affect mood, cognitive functioning, and overall sense of health and well-being. 5. There is insufficient evidence that the noise from wind turbines is directly(i.e., independent from an effect on annoyance or sleep) causing health problems or disease. 6. Claims that infrasound from wind turbines directly impacts the vestibular system have • not been demonstrated scientifically. Available evidence shows that the infrasound levels near wind turbines cannot impact the vestibular system. a. The measured levels of infrasound produced by modem upwind wind turbines at distances as close as 68 m are well below that required for non-auditory perception (feeling of vibration in parts of the body,pressure in the chest, etc.). b. If infrasound couples into structures,then people inside the structure could feel a vibration. Such structural vibrations have been shown in other applications to lead to feelings of uneasiness and general annoyance. The measurements have shown no evidence of such coupling from modern upwind turbines. c. Seismic (ground-carried)measurements recorded near wind turbines and wind turbine farms are unlikely to couple into structures. d. A possible coupling mechanism between infrasound and the vestibular system(via the Outer Hair.Cells (OHC) in the inner ear)has been proposed but is not yet fully understood or sufficiently explained. Levels of infrasound near wind turbines have been shown to be high enough to be sensed by the OHC. However, evidence does not ES-6 Page WIND TURBINE HEALTH IMPACT STUDY • exist to demonstrate the influence of wind turbine-generated infrasound on vestibular- mediated effects in the brain. e. Limited evidence from rodent(rat)laboratory studies identifies short-lived biochemical alterations in cardiac and brain cells in response to short exposures to emissions at 16 Hz and 130 dB. These levels exceed measured infrasound levels from modern turbines by over 35 dB. 7. There is no evidence for a set of health effects, from exposure to wind turbines that could be characterized as a "Wind Turbine Syndrome." 8. The strongest epidemiological study suggests that there is not an association between noise from wind turbines and measures of psychological distress or mental health problems. There were two smaller,weaker, studies: one did note an association,one did not. Therefore,we conclude the weight of the evidence suggests no association between noise from wind turbines and measures of psychological distress or mental health problems. 9. None of the limited epidemiological evidence reviewed suggests an association between noise from wind turbines and pain and stiffness, diabetes,high blood pressure,tinnitus, • hearingimpairment,cardiovascular disease and headache/migraine. ac p d he/migraine. ES 4.2 Shadow Flicker ES 4.2.a Production of Shadow Flicker Shadow flicker results from the passage of the blades of a rotating wind turbine between the sun and the observer. 1. The occurrence of shadow flicker depends on the location of the observer relative to the turbine and the time of day and year. 2. Frequencies of shadow flicker elicited from turbines is proportional to the rotational speed of the rotor times the number of blades and is generally between 0.5 and 1.1 Hz for typical larger turbines. 3. Shadow flicker is only present at distances of less than 1400 in from the turbine. ES 4.2.b Health Impacts of Shadow Flicker 1. Scientific evidence suggests that shadow flicker does not pose a risk for eliciting seizures as a result of photic stimulation. . • ES-7 Page f WIND TURBINE HEALTH IMPACT STUDY • 2. There is limited scientific evidence of an association between annoyance from prolonged shadow flicker(exceeding 30 minutes per day)and potential transitory cognitive and physical health effects. ES 4.3 Ice Throw ES 4.3.a Production oflce Throw Ice can fall or be thrown from a wind turbine during or after an event when ice forms or accumulates on the blades. 1. The distance that a piece of ice may travel from the turbine is a function of the wind speed, the operating conditions, and the shape of the ice. 2. In most cases, ice falls within a distance from the turbine equal to the tower height, and in any case, very seldom does the distance exceed twice the total height of the turbine (tower height plus blade length). ES 4.3.b Health Impacts of Ice Throw 1. There is sufficient evidence that falling ice is physically harmful and measures should be taken to ensure that the public is not likely to encounter such ice. • ES 4.4 Other Considerations In addition to the specific findings stated above for noise and vibration, shadow flicker and ice throw,the Panel concludes the following: 1. Effective public participation in and direct benefits from wind energy projects (such as receiving electricity from the neighboring wind turbines)have been shown to result in less annoyance in general and.better public acceptance overall ES 5. Best Practices Regarding Human Health Effects of Wind Turbines The best practices presented in Chapter 5 are repeated here. Broadly speaking, the term"best practice"refers to policies, guidelines, or recommendations that have been developed for a specific situation. Implicit in the term is that the practice is based on the best information available at the time of its institution. A best practice maybe refined as more information and studies become available. The panel recognizes that in countries which are dependent on wind energy and are protective of public health, best practices have been developed and adopted. ES-8 Page WIND TURBINE HEALTH IMPACT STUDY In some cases, the weight of evidence for a specific practice is stronger than it is in other cases. Accordingly,best practice* may be categorized in terms of the evidence available, as follows: Descriptions of Three Best Practice Categories Category Name Description A program, activity, or strategy that has the highest degree 1 Research Validated of proven effectiveness supported by objective and Best Practice comprehensive research and evaluation. A program, activity,or strategy that has been shown to 2 Field Tested Best work effectively and produce successful outcomes and is Practice supported to some degree by subjective and objective data sources. A program, activity,or strategy that has worked within one organization and shows promise during its early stages for 3 Promising Practice becoming a best practice with long-term sustainable • impact. A promising practice must have some objective basis for claiming effectiveness and must have the potential for replication among other organizations. *These categories are based on those suggested in `Identifying and Promoting Promising Practices." Federal Register, Vol. 68.No 131. 131:July 2003. www.acfhhs..zov/programs/ccf/about ccf/QbkPdfpp Qbk pdf ES 5.1 Noise Evidence regarding wind turbine noise and human health is limited. There is limited evidence of an association between wind turbine noise and both annoyance and sleep disruption, depending on the sound pressure level at the location of concern. However,there are no research-based sound pressure levels that correspond to human responses to noise. A number of countries that have more experience with wind energy and are protective of public health have developed guidelines to minimize the possible adverse effects of noise. These guidelines consider time of day, land use, and ambient wind speed. The table below summarizes the guidelines of Germany(in the categories of industrial, commercial and villages)and Denmark (in the categories of sparsely populated and residential). The sound levels shown in the table are • ES-9 Page WIND TURBINE HEALTH IMPACT STUDY • for nighttime and are assumed to be taken immediately outside of the residence or building of concern. In addition, the World Health Organization recommends a maximum nighttime sound pressure level of 40 dB(A) in residential areas. Recommended setbacks corresponding to these values may be calculated by software such as WindPro or similar software. Such calculations are normally to be done as part of feasibility studies. The Panel considers the guidelines shown below to be Promising Practices (Category 3)but to embody some aspects of Field Tested Best Practices (Category 2) as well. Promising Practices for Nighttime Sound Pressure Levels by Land Use Type Land Use Sound Pressure Level, dB(A)Nighttime Limits Industrial 70 Commercial 50 Villages,mixed usage 45 Sparsely populated areas, 8 m/s wind* 44 • Sparsely o ulated areas, 6 m/s wind* 42 Residential areas, 8 m/s wind* 39 Residential areas, 6 m/s wind* 37 *measured at 10 m above ground, outside of residence or location of concern The time period over which these noise limits are measured or calculated also makes a difference. For instance, the often-cited World Health Organization recommended nighttime noise cap of 40 dB(A)is averaged over one year(and does not refer specifically to wind turbine noise). Denmark's noise limits in the table above are calculated over a 10-minute period. These limits are in line with the noise levels that the epidemiological studies connect with insignificant reports of annoyance. The Panel recommends that noise limits such as those presented in the table above be included as part of a statewide policy regarding new wind turbine installations. In addition, suitable ranges and procedures for cases when the noise levels may be greater than those values • should also be considered. The considerations should take into account trade-offs between ES-10 Page WIND TURBINE HEALTH IMPACT STUDY • environmental and health impacts of different energy sources,national and state goals for energy independence,potential extent of impacts, etc. The Panel also recommends that those involved in a wind turbine purchase become familiar with the noise specifications for the turbine and factors that affect noise production and noise control. Stall and pitch regulated turbines have different noise characteristics, especially in high winds. For certain turbines, it is possible to decrease noise at night through suitable control measures (e.g.,reducing the rotational speed of the rotor). If noise control measures are to be considered,the wind turbine manufacturer must be able to demonstrate that such control is possible. The Panel recommends an ongoing program of monitoring and evaluating the sound produced by wind turbines that are installed in the Commonwealth. IEC 6140041 provides the standard for making noise measurements of wind turbines (International Electrotechnical Commission,2002). In general, more comprehensive assessment of wind turbine noise in populated areas is recommended. These assessments should be done with reference to the broader ongoing research in wind turbine noise production and its effects,which is taking place • internationally. Such assessments would be useful for refining siting guidelines and for developing best practices of a higher category. Closer investigation near homes where outdoor measurements show A and C weighting differences of greater than 15 dB is recommended. ES 5.2 Shadow Flicker Based on the scientific evidence and field experience related to shadow flicker,Germany has adopted guidelines that specify the following: 1. Shadow flicker should be calculated based on the astronomical maximum values (i.e.,not considering the effect of cloud cover, etc.). 2. Commercial software such as WindPro or similar software may be used for these calculations. Such calculations should be done as part of feasibility studies for new wind turbines. 3. Shadow flicker should not occur more than 30 minutes per day and not more than 30 hours per year at the point of concern(e.g., residences). 4. Shadow flicker can be kept to acceptable levels either by setback or by control of the wind turbine. In the latter case, the wind turbine manufacturer must be able to demonstrate that such control is possible. • ES-111Page i WIND TURBINE HEALTH IMPACT STUDY • The guidelines summarized above may be considered to be a Field Tested Best Practice (Category 2). Additional studies could be performed, specifically regarding the number of hours per year that shadow flicker should be allowed,that would allow them to be placed in Research Validated(Category 1)Best Practices. ES 5.3 Ice Throw Ice falling from a wind turbine could pose a danger to human health. It is also clear that the danger is limited to those times when icing occurs and is limited to relatively close proximity to the wind turbine. Accordingly, the following should be considered Category 1 Best Practices. 1. In areas where icing events are possible,warnings should be posted so that no one passes underneath a wind turbine during an icing event and until the ice has been shed. 2. Activities in the vicinity of a wind turbine should be restricted during and immediately after icing events in consideration of the following two limits (in meters). For a turbine that may not have ice control measures, it may be assumed that ice could fall within the following limit: X=x,throw —1.5(2 R+H) Where: R=rotor radius(m),H=hub height(m) • For ice falling from a stationary turbine,the following limit should be used: x,,=,All =U(R+H)l15 Where: U=maximum likely wind speed(m/s) The.choice of maximum likely wind speed should be the expected one-year return maximum, found in accordance to the International Electrotechnical Commission's design standard for wind turbines, IEC 61400-1. Danger from falling ice may also be limited by ice control measures. If ice control measures are to be considered,the wind turbine manufacturer must be able to demonstrate that such control is possible. ES 5.4 Public Participation/Annoyance There is some evidence of an association between participation, economic or otherwise, in a wind turbine project and the annoyance(or lack thereof)that affected individuals may express. Accordingly, measures taken to directly involve residents who live in close proximity • ES-12 Page WIND TURBINE HEALTH IMPACT STUDY • to a wind turbine project may also serve to reduce the level of annoyance. Such measures may be considered to be a Promising Practice (Category 3). ES 5.5 Regulations/Incentives/Public Education The evidence indicates that in those parts of the world where there are a significant number of wind turbines in relatively close proximity to where people live,there is a close coupling between the development of guidelines,provision of incentives,and educating the . public. The Panel suggests that the public be engaged through such strategies as education, incentives for community-owned wind developments, compensations to those experiencing documented loss of property values, comprehensive setback guidelines,and public education related to renewable energy. These multi-faceted approaches may be considered to be a Promising Practice(Category 3). • • ES-13 Page • • • Polished Locations Plymouth _ Mildred H.Aiken Elementary Nantucket Pre-school Dennisport Head Start Cold Spring Elementary George R. Martin Elementary Cape Cod Barnstable Head Start Federal Furnace Elementary Seekonk High School Quashnet Elementary Brewster Head Start Hedge Elementary Somerset Kenneth C.Coombs Early Learning Center at Centerville Indian Brook Elementary North Elementary Chatham Elementary Mashpee Head Start Manomet Elementary Chace Elementary Orleans Elementary W.Yarmouth Preschool Nathaniel Morton Elementary Wilbur Elementary Wellfleet Elementary Women,Infants and Children(WIC) South Elementary South Elementary Eastham Elementary Program West Elementary Diman Regional Vocational Technical Stony Brook Elementary WIC-Hyannis Plymouth Community Intermediate High School Eddy Elementary WIC-Quincy School Gloucester Charter for the Arts Barnstable Horace Mann Charter WIC-Southbridge Plymouth South Middle School Lynn School WIC- Greenfield Plymouth North High School KIPP Academy Lynn West Villages Elementary WIC-Orange Plymouth South High School KIPP High School Lynn Henry T.Wing WIC-Haverhill Mt. Pleasant Pre-school Lynn Early Head Start Oak Ridge YMCA Peabody Lynn Head Start Forestdale Boston YMCA Captain Samuel Brown Elementary Dorchester Hyannis West Elementary Harwich YMCA South Memorial Elementary Dorchester Collegiate Academy Barnstable Community Horace Pre-Schools Center Elementary Boston Mann Public Charter School Children's Services of Roxbury William A.Welch Elementary Cathedral High School Centerville Elementary VNA Child Care Thomas Carroll Elementary Dearborn Middle School Barnstable-West Barnstable Worcester Main Boys and Girls Club John E. McCarthy Elementary Epiphany Elementary Franklin Hill Boys and Girls Club West Elementary Roxbury Cape Cod Regional Technical School Bright Ideas Pre-school John E. Burke Elementary Higginson/Lewis K-8 Nauset Regional Middle School Tender Years Pre-school St.John's School St. Patrick's Nauset High School Ob Gyn—Pregnant Moms Community of Christ Church Roslindale Truro Elementary Lawrence Community Health Center Revere Washington Irving Middle School Veterans Memorial Elementary Senior Citizens Beachmont Elementary Sacred Heart Head Start Programs Lawrence Senior Center Paul Revere Elementary St.Columbkille Partnership School Falmouth Head Start Martha's Vineyard Councils on Aging A.C.Whelan Elementary Nantucket Bourne Head Start Haverhill Susan B. Anthony Middle School Nantucket High School Hyannis Head Start Amesbury Seekonk Cyrus Peirce Middle School Stevens Street Head Start Operation Stand Down America @ Dr.Kevin M. Hurley Middle School Nantucket Elementary Wareham Head Start IBEW,256 Freeport St.,Dorchester I� . � •