Illegal Asbestos Disposal Remains a Problem

Proper asbestos removal can be expensive. It takes the right protective equipment, workers trained in asbestos abatement and the proper storage and disposal of contaminated materials.

While expensive, it is essential to protect the health of workers, building occupants and the nearby public. Asbestos dust is a deadly carcinogen that causes mesothelioma, lung cancer and is associated with many other serious and deadly diseases.

Illegal Disposal

Unfortunately, some business owners and contractors fail to follow federal and state regulations regarding proper asbestos dumping.

Asbestos is not visible to the naked eye. This leads some to think they will be able to surreptitiously dump asbestos into a landfill without marking it or storing it properly. It saves them money, sure. But it also puts anyone who comes in the vicinity in danger of inhaling asbestos fibers.

Apparently, people who do this operate under the theory that exposing people to a deadly carcinogen that cuts short the lives of thousands of people every year is less important than their own bottom line.

Asbestos Must be Disposed of In Authorized Landfills

Many landfills throughout the U.S. accept asbestos-contaminated materials. The landfill must be able to dispose of the waste safely. The EPA lists the landfills that accept asbestos-contaminated material online. Asbestos waste must be properly contained and labeled. Asbestos waste is hazardous material, so its transportation to an appropriate disposal facility must also comply with applicable state and federal law.

Cutting Corners Can Cost

While disposing asbestos properly is the right thing to do, the failure to follow regulations can also cost offenders. Improper disposal can lead to significant fines. Depending on the severity of the violations, it can also lead to criminal charges.

Most importantly, however, improperly disposing of asbestos costs lives.