All News Releases By Date

EPA Cites Crossing Outlet Store Owner and Contractor for Asbestos Violations

Release Date: 8/17/1999
Contact Information: Donna M. Heron 215-814-5113

TANNERSVILLE, Pa. - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today announced that it has cited Outletter Associates, owner of the Crossing Outlet in Tannersville, Pa., and F&F Paving Inc. for violating federal asbestos regulations.

EPA’s administrative complaint seeks a $32,500 penalty against Outletter and F&F, a paving and excavation contractor, for alleged asbestos violations related to the demolition of three residential structures owned by Outletter. These structures were located at the former site of the Kobble Building Company, about 200 feet beyond the entrance of the outlet center.

EPA alleges that in October 1998 F&F personnel demolished asbestos-containing panels on these structures without providing the required advance notice to EPA. The complaint also cites the parties for violating Clean Air Act regulations requiring that asbestos materials be adequately wetted during removal and properly disposed of, and that an employee trained in the regulations be on-site during asbestos removal activities.

To reduce the risk of asbestos emissions, EPA’s regulations require that asbestos-containing materials, which may release asbestos fibers during demolition or renovation, must be adequately wetted during removal, and carefully handled to prevent unnecessary damage. These materials must remain adequately wetted, securely bagged or otherwise treated to minimize asbestos emissions until disposal.

Asbestos is a hazardous air pollutant that was once heavily used in insulation and other building materials. Prolonged exposure and inhalation of asbestos fibers can cause cancer and asbestosis, a serious respiratory disease. For more information on asbestos demolition and renovation requirements, please contact EPA Region III’s Asbestos Enforcement Section at
215-814-2111.

The companies have the right to a hearing to contest the alleged violations and proposed penalty.


#

99-375