State Fines $115K For Unsafe Asbestos Removal In Worcester

WORCESTER, MA — State environmental officials have handed a $115,000 fine to a Worcester contractor in connection to unsafe asbestos removal in the Union Hill neighborhood.

According to the state Department of Environmental Protection, contractor Nilton Santos failed to hire an asbestos inspector during renovations in 2021 at a Cutler Street property, did not alert the state about the asbestos removal work and did not follow proper removal and handling procedures for materials like asbestos-containing siding and mastic resin siding.

Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was used for decades in building construction due to its fire resistance. But when disturbed, the mineral becomes airborne and can cause cancer after long-term exposure.

In addition to the fine, Santos was responsible for cleanup and decontamination costs at the constrcution site, MassDEP said.

“Contractors doing renovation work need to be aware of the requirements to identify asbestos-containing materials and to ensure that those materials are safely removed before beginning any work. Contractors must follow all inspection requirements and work practices to protect workers and the public because asbestos is a known carcinogen,” MassDEP’s Central Regional Director Mary Jude Pigsley said in a news release.

MassDEP discovered the asbestos violations after inspecting the Cutler Street job site in October 2021 after receiving a complaint.