Peerless Mill in Rossville, Georgia investigated for asbestos problem
The Environmental Protection Division in Georgia (EPD) is looking into whether the old Peerless Mill in Rossville is contaminated with asbestos. EPD’s Asbestos Removal Program was tipped off that asbestos allegedly was being improperly removed from the site. EPD was concerned about the potential problem because xposure to asbestos fibers can cause asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, a devastating cancer of the lining of the lungs, chest, abdomen, or heart.
After the inspector who went to check out the complaint was denied access, the EPD obtained a warrant to collect samples of the substance at issue. The owner of the property, Mr. Les Coffee, has confirmed that the Peerless location is under investigation, but Coffee claims that only a small area of the plant is involved and that no environmental violations have occurred. In the meantime, the EPD is testing the samples collected. If the EPD finds that the landowner is in violation, citations or fines could be levied.
For the full story, go to Chattanooga News Channel 9.
