Asbestos News

Demolition work on a former New York warehouse and barn complex has begun with the removal of asbestos from the site, reports the Watertown Daily Times.

According to the news source, the asbestos abatement, which mainly involves removing piping wrap containing the carcinogenic material, is being conducted by Independent Commercial Contractors. The combination of the asbestos removal and the demolition work is expected to cost $27,000, the news provider said.

Asbestos abatement work is very important prior to demolitions as the dangerous mineral fibers can be released into the air if disturbed during such projects. The inhalation of these fibers has been proven to cause a range of serious illnesses such as malignant mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis.

The facility, which was once used by the state's Department of Transportation, has reportedly been vacant for a number of years and is owned by North County Development, which owes back taxes to the city, according to the news source.

City Manager Mary M. Corriveau told the news provider that the site could ultimately be a good location for in-fill housing, which the city is looking to set up.