Multimedia pollution prevention means lower costs

Most industries that produce or use substances potentially harmful to human health have had to address issues related to worker safety. Strangely, facilities generating pollution generally will experience higher concentrations of pollutants within the facility itself than at the fencepost. This distinction is important because pollution commonly is considered to occur only when pollutant species escape the facility--and the pollutants` effects on neighboring properties and residents frequently drive regulations. Despite this, the effects on individuals working in the facility on a daily basis generally will be more pronounced due to the concentration differential. The costs of worker exposure to hazardous substances are examined as are collateral issues. Particular attention is paid to how a multimedia approach to pollution prevention can reduce such costs and provide other benefits at the same time.