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Chicago
Region


Please note: As of January 20, 2021, information in some news releases may be out of date or not reflect current policies.

 

 

 

 

Oct. 20, 2015

 

 

Chicago roofers exposed to dangerous asbestos hazards

Employer names: Continental Contractors, Niles, Illinois and Local Roofing Inc., Gurnee, Illinois

Citations received: Oct. 16, 2015

Investigation findings: The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration's Chicago North Area Office cited a contractor and subcontractor for exposing workers to asbestos hazards while replacing a commercial roof in the 4200 block of N. Knox in Chicago.

Continental Contractors was cited for 11 serious violations carrying proposed penalties of $21,600. Local Roofing, which had been subcontracted to demolish, remove and replace the building's roofing system, was issued nine serious violations carrying proposed penalties of $48,510.

The companies were cited for failing to:

  • Conduct an exposure assessment for asbestos.
  • Establish a respiratory protection program.
  • Use engineering controls such as a HEPA vacuum and dry sweeping to clean-up material likely to contain asbestos.
  • Train workers on asbestos hazards.
  • Provide personal protective clothing.

Quote: "Asbestos exposure can cause chronic lung disease and cancer. No worker should be exposed to this potentially life-ending substance without being trained and provided protective equipment," said Angeline Loftus, OSHA's area director for the Chicago North office in Des Plaines.

View citations: Continental Contractors, Local Roofing

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Media Contacts:

Scott Allen, 312-353-6976, allen.scott@dol.gov
Rhonda Burke, 312-353-6976, burke.rhonda@dol.gov

Release Number: 15-1905-CHI


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