Aug 31, 2010 - Kansas Prisons Asbestos Audit and Abatement
Since then, the Kansas Department of Corrections conducted an audit of other facilities, performed asbestos abatement at two, and is in the process of developing a remediation plan for others where asbestos was discovered. The $170,000 assessment found many facilities have asbestos containing materials (ACMs) and money has been reallocated for elimination and abatement.
Asbestos was found in the pipe insulation and wrapping, ceiling and floor tiles, and mastic. Asbestos containing products that are intact and in good condition present very low risk of exposure, therefore the KDOC started with addressing only those facilities that presented a danger. Asbestos products, when damaged or deteriorated can release carcinogenic asbestos fibers that create risk of illnesses such as mesothelioma and asbestosis.
The EPA did confirm that the work performed in 2005 did not meet standards set forth by the Clean Air Act (CAA) and Toxic Substance Control Act. For any future projects, the prison must provide:
· Inspections prior to demolition, construction, renovation or repair
· Respiratory and clothing protection
· Training
· Supervision
· Ongoing medical monitoring of workers
Any failure to follow such regulations on future projects will result in fines for KDOC. If you think you may have been exposed to asbestos and are experiencing symptoms of mesothelioma or lung cancer, visit your doctor immediately and inform him of your history. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and would like to speak to asbestos attorneys who specialize in handling only mesothelioma lawsuits, please contact us 1-888-855-9052.
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