Press Release  MassDEP Fines Worcester Property Owner for Asbestos Violations at Vacant Building

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has penalized Daniel and Amy Rizika of Millbury $71,512 for violations of asbestos regulations at a vacant building he owns in Worcester.

In response to a complaint, MassDEP inspected the site and observed that the interior of the building had been stripped to its foundational framework, leaving substantial amounts of debris within the structure. Amy Rizika, a licensed construction supervisor, admitted she had not conducted an asbestos survey of the building before beginning the renovation. MassDEP sampled the materials and confirmed asbestos was in the duct wrap and insulation. MassDEP personnel ordered Mrs. Rizika to stop work immediately and to hire a licensed asbestos contractor to properly clean and decontaminate the affected areas of the property.

"Gutting a building to its studs without following proper regulatory procedures creates hazards for workers, neighbors and the environment," said Mary Jude Pigsley, director of MassDEP’s Central Regional Office in Worcester. "Before any renovation begins, contractors must properly identify asbestos-containing materials and ensure that those materials are safely removed. It is important to follow all inspection requirements and best work practices to protect workers and the public, because there is no safe level of exposure when it comes to asbestos."

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.

###