News  MassDEP Fines Infinity Abatement Services, Inc. of Lawrence for Asbestos Violations at Multi-family Residence in Marlborough

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has assessed a penalty of $64,074 to Infinity Abatement Services, Inc. of Lawrence for violations of asbestos regulations that occurred during work it conducted at a multi-family residential building located in Marlborough. In August 2019, MassDEP identified the violations while responding to a complaint of improper asbestos removal and handling from the Marlborough Building Department. MassDEP determined that the company did not notify the Department before conducting the work, and the company did not follow the proper removal, handling, packaging, labeling procedures required by MassDEP’s regulations.

MassDEP regulations require notification to MassDEP 10 working days before beginning any asbestos removal work so that the Department is aware of the removal work and can conduct inspections to ensure compliance with the regulations. Under the terms of the settlement agreement, the company will pay $16,018.50 of the penalty with the balance suspended for a year as long as there are no further violations by the company.

“As a licensed asbestos contractor, Infinity Abatement should be fully aware that MassDEP’s regulations require specific procedures when conducting work with asbestos-containing building materials. Asbestos is a known carcinogen, and by failing to follow required work practices, the company put workers, tenants and the public at risk,” said Mary Jude Pigsley, director of MassDEP’s Central Regional Office in Worcester. “Failure to follow requirements will result in significant 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.

MassDEP’s mission is to protect and enhance the Commonwealth’s natural resources – air, water and land – to provide for the health, safety and welfare of all people, and a clean and safe environment for future generations. In carrying out this mission, MassDEP commits to address and advance environmental justice and equity for all people of the Commonwealth, provide meaningful, inclusive opportunities for people to participate in agency decisions that affect their lives, and ensure a diverse workforce that reflects the communities served by the agenc