This isn’t great news, but I wanted to make sure that folks were aware. It appears that there is a citation for improper asbestos handling over at the McClaren Orthopedic Hospital across the parking lot.
At the moment we don’t know much about any potential risk. The piles of framing that were in the parking lot are now covered. I’ve emailed and called the person listed as the Air Quality Analyst over at the state and am waiting to hear back. As soon as I do I’ll post here again to give updates.
Here is the response we got from the agency about the potential asbestos exposure. Based on this and some other conversations I’ve had with folks in the industry, we believe that the likelihood of exposure at our location is very very low.
Hi Lex,
We had an inspector out on site today to meet with the contractor. There was a fairly large asbestos abatement project that occurred at the site prior to the demolition, with the exception of asbestos containing-material found on some of the beams that was identified. It is my understanding that the contractor has covered the contaminated material and is currently in the process of removing and disposing of the material and should be finished soon.
There is an environmental consultant on site during the demolition, and they have been collecting air samples for asbestos around the perimeter of the site. EGLE doesn’t have jurisdiction over asbestos air sampling, and I don’t have a copy of sample results, but it sounds like the consultant has not found any elevated levels during their sampling. If I hear anything else about the sampling, I can let you know.
If there are concerns about potential asbestos exposure, I would recommend reaching out the local health department. You can also contact an environmental consultant to discuss; they can collect air samples at your location.
Regarding reporting requirement towards volunteers and members, I’d suggest reaching out to the MIOSHA Asbestos program at 517-284-7680 and speak with one of the industrial hygienists.
After the site clean-up, the building owner/contractor will be conducting an additional inspection inside of the building to determine if there might be more insulation on the beams to be abated prior to demolition. If you have any questions or concerns regarding upcoming demolition activities at the site, please feel free to reach out to Jeremy Brown to discuss.
Tammy Bell
Supervisor
Air Quality Division/Asbestos Unit