Press Release  MassDEP Fines Medford Man for Asbestos Violations During Home Renovation in Fitchburg

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has fined Wanderson Oliveira Vaz of Medford $72,104 for multiple violations of state asbestos regulations that occurred during renovation of an occupied, multi-family residence he owns in Fitchburg.  

Responding to a complaint from the City of Fitchburg, MassDEP inspected the residence and observed heating pipes covered with asbestos-containing insulation in a pile on the driveway. The pipes had been cut from the basement and placed outside during a boiler replacement project. Vaz failed to conduct an asbestos survey of the building’s heating system and failed to notify MassDEP before the start of the project. MassDEP required Vaz to hire a licensed asbestos contractor to clean and decontaminate all affected areas of the property and to properly dispose of the remaining asbestos-containing waste material.

"Property owners doing renovation work need to be aware of the requirements to identify asbestos-containing materials and to ensure that those materials are safely removed before beginning any work. Asbestos is a known carcinogen and careful handling is imperative to protect workers, residents, and the public," said Mary Jude Pigsley, Director of MassDEP’s Central Regional Office in Worcester.  "Failure to follow the requirements will result in significant penalties." 

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 their local 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 to ensure 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; to provide meaningful, inclusive opportunities for people to participate in agency decisions that affect their lives; and to ensure a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve. 

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