WORCESTER — A Millbury couple has been fined more than $71,000 by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) for asbestos violations at a vacant building in Worcester.
Daniel and Amy Rizika were penalized $71,512 after inspectors responding to a complaint found the interior of their Worcester property gutted to its studs, with large amounts of debris left behind. The inspection revealed that no asbestos survey had been conducted prior to renovation, a requirement under state environmental regulations.
Amy Rizika, a licensed construction supervisor, admitted the oversight. Samples taken by MassDEP confirmed the presence of asbestos in duct wrap and insulation throughout the building. Officials issued an immediate stop-work order and instructed the Rizikas to hire a licensed asbestos contractor to properly clean and decontaminate the site.
"Gutting a building to its studs without following proper regulatory procedures creates hazards for workers, neighbors and the environment," said Mary Jude Pigsley, director of MassDEP’s Central Regional Office in Worcester.
State officials emphasized that there is no safe level of asbestos exposure and urged property owners and contractors to follow all inspection and removal requirements prior to beginning renovations.
MassDEP advises anyone with questions about asbestos regulations or safe removal practices to contact the appropriate regional office.
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