LEOMINSTER — A Leominster licensed asbestos removal contractor will pay $5,000 in fines after reportedly failing to follow asbestos-removal regulations.
"Asbestos is a known carcinogen, and following prescribed work practices is imperative to protect workers as well as the general public,” said Lee Dillard Adams, director of MassDEP’s Central Regional Office in Worcester. “Failure to do so will result in penalties, as well as escalated cleanup, decontamination and monitoring costs.”
The Mass Department of Environmental Protection assessed $19,312.50 in penalties following an inspection of home that A & E Environmental, Inc., of Leominster, was hired to clear of asbestos. The company will pay $5,000 in fines, with the remaining penalty suspended as long as the company goes a year without another violation, reported the MassDEP.
MassDEP inspectors reportedly found asbestos-containing insulation on the basement floor and on heating pipes after the company had completed its work at the home. The asbestos-containing materials must be sealed properly and disposed of in approved landfills.