EPA Cites City, Contractors for Improper Asbestos Removal

EPA proposes a $36,850 penalty against the City of Wilkes-Barre, PA, as well as two local contractors, A.R. Popple, Inc., and Wyoming S & P, Inc. for improper removal of asbestos-containing material during the demolition of the city’s former steam heat plant.

In June 2002, the Wilkes-Barre Department of Public Safety ordered the demolition of the city’s steam heat plant. The city contracted with Wyoming S & P, Inc. to provide asbestos removal services and with A.R. Popple, Inc. to demolish the plant.

Based on inspections by EPA and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, EPA cited the city and the two contractors for failing to keep asbestos-containing debris adequately wet during removal and disposals, and failing to expeditiously dispose of asbestos debris. EPA’s complaint also cited these parties for inadequate notification of the asbestos demolition, and failing to have a trained supervisor present during demolition activities. As a result of EPA’s enforcement activities, the site was cleaned and the remaining asbestos was handled in accordance with the regulatory requirements.