For most of summer, residents in many southern states had been complaining about Chinese drywall and the presence of a foul odor. Finally federal investigators reveal that their appears to be strong link between the imported Chinese dry wall, corrosion of pipes and lung ailments in thousands of home owners.
The Chinese dry wall was imported to re-build homes after the Katrina disaster. Most of the affected homes are located in Florida and areas of Louisiana and Mississippi.
At least 7 million tons of dry wall were imported and soon after, home owners started to complain about a fishy odor and pipe corrosion. The latest study by U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said its investigation have found a “possible” link between health problems reported by homeowners and hydrogen sulfide gas emitted from the dry wall.
While all the data are not in, the agency is continuing to work with the Environmental Protection Agency and the CDC to ascertain the potential health effects and what the long term implications will be both for the home owner.
The commission said it is moving forward and trying to mend the problem. Because of shortage of money, the agency has asked for federal funds. So far the agency has spent $3.5 million on the studies after receiving complaints from more than more than 2,000 homeowners in over 32 states.
Before a recall or any other action is undertake, the agency says it will perform further studies. The only piece of good news is that China is also assisting with present investigation.