New LA County Dept of Public Health(DPH) Report

The LA County DPH released a new report: Public Health and Safety Risks of Oil and Gas Facilities in Los Angeles County.  In the report they look at environmental and public health concerns related to oil and gas facilities and operations.  They conclude the following:

• The mandatory setbacks for oil and gas activities in LA county should be increased
• Require operators in urban areas to implement continuous monitoring programs
• Local communities need to have a much larger role in monitoring and regulating these facilities
• Oil and gas operators need to develop Community Safety Plans that disclose what hazardous materials are being housed on site and  provide an outline of their monitoring procedures.
• Oil and gas operators must establish and maintain enhanced Emergency Preparedness Plans

The report also acknowledges a correlation between oil and operations and their by products with adverse health impacts. Including pregnancy complications, exposure to cancer causing agents, respiratory issues and neurological complications.  Click on the image below to see the full report.