Asbestos Removal and Disposal

If your construction and demolition business is also responsible for the removal of asbestos, strictly adhering to federal and state regulations is essential. Asbestos is considered a toxic substance hazardous to human health and the environment and failure to properly handle and contain this matter can lead to criminal prosecution.

In 2011, two men from the Bay City, Michigan area were sentenced for criminal violations of the Clean Air Act. The men were indicted for knowingly violating federal asbestos laws in the removal of the substance at a former automotive plant. During the job, the men directed workers to tear down the asbestos while it was dry, and to place in plastic bags without wetting it. This handling and removal violated the Clean Air Act’s asbestos regulations which requires handlers to wet the materials before removal and ensure they remain wet. The men were sentenced to a combination of federal prison time, fines, and probation.

WasteCare Wants You to Remember: Asbestos is a toxic substance and failure to handle properly not only endangers the environment, but your employee’s health as well. Ignoring the regulations can cost you more money (and jail time) than simply following them!