The Ministry of Public Health has issued a statement regarding the necessary procedures to be followed within the Port of Beirut. The statement reads: "After the collapse of parts of the grain silos at the Port of Beirut and after conducting laboratory tests on the surrounding air in collaboration with the CBRN Prevention Squadron - Engineering Brigade of the Lebanese Army, it was found that there is a high level of fungi (of the Aspergillus type) in the collected samples. Therefore, to protect public health, the Ministry of Public Health emphasizes the following:
- These fungi result from the fermentation of tons of rotten grains inside the silos, and removing these grains is the first essential step to mitigate their impact on public health.
- The fungi typically do not pose an immediate danger to public health; however, inhaling large amounts over prolonged periods may expose individuals with respiratory or immune diseases to serious health complications.
- These fungi may remain airborne for extended periods and can spread their particles to areas far from their original source of emission.
Accordingly, based on the advice of health experts, the Ministry of Public Health stresses the following:
- Avoid long-term work inside the port for individuals suffering from respiratory or immune diseases.
- Reduce the number of workers and individuals present in the port, including military personnel, to the greatest extent possible, while applying the principle of rotation.
- Limit working hours within the port so they do not exceed six continuous hours daily/30 hours at most weekly. If it is necessary to be present in the port and its vicinity (for work or other reasons), individuals must wear KN95 masks throughout their stay, as well as those passing through the area and its surroundings. Air conditioning should be set to recirculation mode from within the vehicle.
- Keep windows and doors closed within the port and its vicinity.
- Consult a doctor if any acute respiratory symptoms appear in any of the workers or individuals who have been inside the port and its vicinity for long periods.
