IG Charges EPA May Have Violated OSHA Rules In Approving Improper Asbestos Demolition Methods

The Environmental Protection Agency is defending itself against allegations by its Inspector General (IG) that EPA authorized controversial demolition practices that might cause asbestos exposures, and that EPA may have violated OSHA rules for personal protective equipment. The IG on Dec. 14 issued an “early warning report” on allegations that EPA may have authorized use of the so-called “wet method” of demolishing asbestos-contaminated buildings at various sites, including the Hanford Superfund Site near Richland, WA and a gaseous diffusion plant in Paducah, KY. EPA says it is already investi