Claims Out of Thin Air for LAUSD
By Robert Warne - May 15, 2002Do you smell subrogation?
Fumes of subrogation from a batch of workers’ compensation claims have wafted through the department that handles claims for the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD).
After a rash of 37 claims from employees exposed to toxic fumes, authorities are pointing the finger at a Verizon Yellow Pages print shop.
LAUSD leases office space from Verizon on Boyle Ave. The Subdistrict H office is located in the back of the Verizon Information Services industrial complex.
It has been reported that the claims started shortly after the LAUSD moved into the space in October 2000. The odors in the building have been tested, but never warranted the intervention of environmental regulators.
District officials are awaiting further test results to determine why employees suffered respiratory symptoms consistent with toxic exposure.
Bonnie Rubio, Subdistrict H superintendent said that, “Of the 37 workers who filed claims, only one has been given the OK to return to work,” according to the Los Angeles Times.
The Times also noted that seventeen employees received orders by a doctor to remain at home. Five of the 17 have returned against the doctor’s recommendation. The remaining 19 have been assigned to another location.
It is not yet known if these 37 individuals were more susceptible to a chemical reaction than the rest of the employees at the location.
Michelle Mistri, the District’s workers’ compensation administrator told adjustercom.com that officials are still reviewing the terms of their lease agreement before they can determine if Verizon can be held liable. | 
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