Clapper, Patti, Schweizer and Mason

A couple months ago state and county authorities began investigating complaints that a north St. Louis County Fire District was removing and disposing of tiles that possibly contained asbestos while renovating a recently purchased building. When two inspectors from the County Health Department went to investigate the allegations, they were told they were not allowed to inspect and asked to leave. 

 

The denial of access to the inspectors sparked an investigation by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and claims that the Fire District officials violated state and county codes regarding removal of asbestos containing products. The DNR obtained a search warrant and took samples of floor and ceiling tiles and other materials. After it was determined that the samples did contain asbestos, the building was ordered to be vacated.  

 

The evacuation comes from concern that the removal of the tiles could have made asbestos fibers airborne. Asbestos, if contained and sealed, does not necessarily pose a health hazard. However, if fibers become airborne they can be inhaled, leading to risk of developing serious lung diseases, such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and cancer. 

 

Information is still being gathered to determine if anyone at the Northeast Fire District building was dangerously exposed and air quality test will be performed.