Federal criminal charges have been filed after an asbestos demolition company’s actions exposed workers and the public to the risk of mesothelioma. The 24-count indictment filed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office accuses Carl Fioravanti, president of Alliance Environmental Control, Inc., of making false statements during the demolition of the former Lakes Behavioral Hospital in Waukegan, Illinois, without adhering to regulations.
Asbestos Released through Improper Demolition and Waste Disposal Risks Mesothelioma
It’s been decades since asbestos exposure was linked to mesothelioma and other serious illnesses, and since then, strict regulations regarding demolition and waste disposal have been put in place by both federal and local government agencies. When buildings suspected of containing the carcinogenic material are scheduled for demolition, stakeholders involved are required to conduct inspections, submit applications and paperwork, and adhere to best practices designed to protect those at risk of exposure from legacy asbestos.
Despite this, federal investigators say that workers and the public were put at risk of mesothelioma after subcontractors began demolishing the eight-story building in November 2023 without following proper removal protocols. They allege that Fioravanti made false statements about asbestos abatement work his Lansing, Illinois-based company was hired to perform in exchange for $1,780,770, and that Alliance employees began stripping asbestos from the facility before receiving city permits or submitting required notices to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA).
Mesothelioma Exposure Occurred Through Improper Waste Disposal
Investigators allege that the risk of mesothelioma was created when Fioravanti allegedly directed employees to dispose of accumulated bags of asbestos-containing waste material by placing them in dumpsters for disposal at a landfill rather than following proper hazardous waste procedures. The complaint asserts that he lied to IEPA employees, saying that his workers were only engaged in demolition site preparation when demolition had already begun and was proceeding in the wrong way.
Federal investigators opened a complaint inspection after observing K.L.F. Enterprises employees working amid debris piles that were likely asbestos-laden, yet not wearing protective equipment designed to minimize their mesothelioma risk. The complaint claims that the Chicago demolition subcontractor continued activities that disturbed and removed asbestos used to fireproof the building’s interior despite. There are 36 safety and health violations cited, including accusing the company of possessing a 2019 building survey that “clearly identified” extensive use of asbestos to fireproof structural beams, yet not letting employees know of its hazards. The report showed that the building’s insulation and fireproofing materials contained up to 15 percent chrysotile asbestos.
Company’s Fines Won’t Help Employees at Risk of Mesothelioma
OSHA has assessed K.L.F. with $392,002 in proposed penalties for willful violations, including failing to notify employees and other contractors of the risk of mesothelioma through asbestos-containing materials, not requiring protective equipment, failing to train employees to recognize unsafe conditions, and not providing medical surveillance for asbestos, silica, and lead exposures. For those exposed to the site, this fine will do little to avert tragedy in the future.
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net are here to help. Contact us today at 1-800-692-8608 to learn more.