Two Rhode Island Companies Fined By EPA
Wednesday, October 8th, 2008
Two Rhode Island companies have recently been fined by the Environmental Protection Agency for violations of the Clean Air Act. The combined amount of the fines total about $630,000.
According to EPA both David Santanelli, who is the co-owner of Bilray Demolition Company located in Johnston, Rhode Island, and the owner of Southeastern New England Shipbuilding Corp., located in North Kingstown are guilty of violating various federal and state Clean Air Act regulations.
Santanelli’s violations involved improper removal of asbestos-containing materials during demolition at what the former Seaboard Foundry in Johnston, Rhode Island. The demolition was necessary due to fire at the site back in 2004. Fines imposed on the demolition company totaled $256,320. Southeastern New England was fined a total of $378,700.
EPA is further claiming that Bilray neglected to sufficiently inspect for asbestos materials on the property before beginning the demolition work, and that the company failed to notify the proper EPA officials of their intent to demolish. Such rigid regulations are necessary, as exposure to asbestos in any amount is connected to the development of asbestos cancer, also known as mesothelioma.
Santanelli claims that the removal of asbestos was not his responsibility, and is intending to challenge the accusations made against him in court.
