MassDEP Fines Lawrence Asbestos Contractor $16,700
for Violations at Westfield Facility

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has levied a $16,700 penalty against Environmental Restoration Services Corporation of Lawrence for violating state asbestos regulations during a job in Westfield.

MassDEP's action followed receipt of a complaint regarding the improper removal of asbestos-containing thermal insulation at a former manufacturing facility, Columbian Mill at 1 Cycle Street, Westfield. During an inspection of the facility conducted on July 18, 2008, MassDEP found that Environmental Restoration Services had failed to employ asbestos removal, handling and disposal procedures designed to prevent the release of asbestos fibers.

MassDEP ordered Environmental Restoration Services to develop and implement a Standard Operating Procedure for its asbestos abatement operations to ensure future compliance with the asbestos regulations. The company will pay $3,000 of the $16,700 penalty; the remaining $13,700 has been suspended by MassDEP during a two-year probationary period.

"Asbestos abatement contractors must be held accountable for the protection of the public health and welfare of their clients, their employees and the general public," said Michael Gorski, director of MassDEP's Western Regional Office in Springfield. "Mishandling asbestos-containing materials poses a serious health risk to those exposed and MassDEP will take firm enforcement action against chronic violators."

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. More information on asbestos, including health effects, can be obtained from MassDEP's web site: http://www.mass.gov/dep/air/asbguid.htm

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