Contractor fined for asbestos violations at OSU
The Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has fined IRS Environmental of Portland Inc. $8,100 for asbestos violations related to a roofing project at the Reed Lodge residence hall at Oregon State University (OSU). IRS Environmental has been charged with four violations that include failing to inform the DEQ at least 10 days before beginning the friable asbestos project, failing to wet down the friable cement asbestos board roofing while it was being removed, failing to keep the asbestos debris wet after it was removed and before it was taken to an authorized landfill, and failing to properly package the asbestos waste in leak-tight plastic bags for disposal.
Asbestos is a toxic substance that is known to cause several forms of cancer, including mesothelioma. Asbestos removal and handling is strictly regulated in order to protect workers and the public from the health risks.
For the full story, go to Albany Democrat Herald.
