Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Workplace Safety Asbestos topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Town reduces OSHA fines; asbestos work plans and testing noted as ongoing obligations
Summary
Andover negotiated OSHA fines down to roughly half the initial amount, paid about $2,100, and is working with state OSHA to revise procedures and prepare asbestos work plans after visual observations and one sample indicated presumed asbestos-containing materials.
Town staff reported on July 14 that Andover negotiated state OSHA citations to roughly 50% of the initial fine amount and paid about $2,100. The town is working with OSHA training officers to rewrite procedures and implement required work plans.
Why it matters: OSHA compliance affects worker safety and the town's liability exposure; resolving the citation prevents more severe penalties and requires updated procedures and training. The asbestos-related findings mean the town must be careful when renovating older municipal buildings.
What was reported: Eric said the town worked with OSHA and reduced the initial penalty by roughly half; he called the outcome "very good" compared with fines other nearby towns had faced. The town hired Mystic Air to prepare asbestos work plans and to sample suspected materials; the report included many assumed items marked "not tested" and one actual test on a sample of flooring that returned positive for asbestos. Staff emphasized that significant disturbance/renovation work will require testing and, if necessary, abatement.
Discussion points: Board members and staff discussed the distinction between visual observations and laboratory testing; staff said not every listed item was sampled, and that protocol is to test materials that will be disturbed. Selectmen asked that testing be performed before any significant renovation. They also noted the need to update training, SDS (Safety Data Sheets) references, and procedures to conform with OSHA guidance.
Next steps: The town will complete required procedure rewrites, finalize asbestos work plans and sample material that will be disturbed in future renovation projects. The town will also follow OSHA's suggested templates and training plan and will continue to track payments and corrective actions in the town record.
