The Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has assessed MLC Worcester LLC, the owner of 43 Illinois St., nearly $52,000 for violations of asbestos regulations that occurred during the renovation of the triple-decker.
Under the terms of the settlement, MLC Worcester will pay a $10,000 penalty with the balance suspended provided it has no further violations for one year.
In January 2014, MassDEP inspectors responding to a complaint observed dry, friable asbestos-containing pipe insulation on the basement floor and in a pile of renovation debris on the ground outside. The owner did not notify MassDEP prior to the asbestos removal work as required by state regulations.
MassDEP required MLC Worcester to hire a licensed asbestos contractor to clean up and decontaminate all affected parts of the property and properly package, label and dispose of the asbestos-contaminated waste.
MassDEP regulations require asbestos-containing materials to be removed wet and sealed while wet into leak-tight containers with warning labels. During asbestos abatement the work area must be sealed off and air filtration and monitoring equipment operated. These requirements are designed to prevent a release of asbestos fibers to the environment, which is hazardous. Notification is required to MassDEP 10 working days prior to commencing asbestos removal work so that MassDEP has the opportunity to conduct inspections to ensure compliance with the regulations.
“Prior to commencing renovation activity, contractors must identify asbestos-containing materials so they can be removed and handled in accordance with the regulations,” Mary Jude Pigsley, director of MassDEP’s Central Regional Office in Worcester, said in a statement. “Asbestos is a known carcinogen, and following required work practices protects workers, as well as the general public. Failure to do so will result in penalties, as well as escalated cleanup, decontamination and monitoring costs.”
Property owners or contractors with questions about asbestos-containing materials, notification requirements, proper removal, handling, packaging, storage and disposal procedures, or the asbestos regulations are encouraged to contact the appropriate MassDEP Regional Office for assistance here.
MassDEP is responsible for ensuring clean air and water, safe management and recycling of solid and hazardous wastes, timely cleanup of hazardous waste sites and spills and the preservation of wetlands and coastal resources.
