Construction companies cited for exposing workers to asbestos

A contractor and subcontractor have been cited by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration for exposing workers to asbestos hazards while replacing a commercial roof in Chicago.

Continental Contractors was cited for 11 serious violations, and Local Roofing Inc., which had been subcontracted to demolish, remove and replace the roofing system, was issued nine serious violations after workers were exposed to asbestos while working in the 4200 block of North Knox, according to a statement from OSHA.

The companies were cited for failing to conduct an exposure assessment for asbestos, establish a respiratory protection program, use engineering controls to remove material likely to contain asbestos, train workers on asbestos hazards, and provide personal protective clothing, according to OSHA.

“Asbestos exposure can cause chronic lung disease and cancer. No worker should be exposed to this potentially life-ending substance without being trained and provided protective equipment,” Angeline Loftus, an OSHA representative, said in the statement.

OSHA proposed that Continental Contractors, located in Niles, should pay $21,600 in penalties; and Local Roofing, located in Gurnee, pay $48,510, the agency said.

Continental Contractors and Local Roofing Inc. could not be immediately reached for comment.