Many Minnesota workers and residential occupants are at risk for certain health conditions although they may not realize it. There are many buildings and work environments throughout the state and nation that place employees and residents in harm’s way regarding possible asbestos exposure. At times, such exposure happens by chance, without those involved realizing dangerous microscopic fibers are present in their surroundings. Sadly, other exposures occur when employers or town officials are fully aware of potential problems but fail in their duties to inform others or take precautions to keep them safe.
An apartment complex in another state was evacuated some time ago due to a flood. An inspection of the property ensued after the storms that caused the flood subsided. Property owners were cited for nine separate maintenance code violations.
A city manager recently reported that the same building complex has been found to contain high levels of asbestos. The city had planned on demolishing the building; however, those plans came to a screeching halt when asbestos was discovered in flooring, drywall, window glazing and exterior plaster of the structure. The apartment building has been vacant since 2010.
It is not known at this time whether any workers or former apartment occupants have suffered health injuries due to asbestos exposure at the complex. City officials say there are strict federal regulations that restrict procedures used to remove asbestos from a particular property or to demolish a building known to contain the material. Minnesota workers or residents concerned about specific asbestos-related situations may want to discuss their circumstances with someone well versed in the laws that govern such matters.
Source: U.S. News & World Report, “Test finds asbestos throughout shuttered apartment complex”, April 28, 2018
