EPA Demands Company to Stop All Asbestos Removal at Former Psychiatric Hospital

All building renovations at the former Harlem Valley Psychiatric Center in Dutchess County, NY have ceased after an investigation by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency identified the presence of asbestos containing building material.

Olivet Management LLC, was ordered by the U.S. EPA to shut down their operation after failing to notify the EPA about the asbestos abatement they were performing. By law, the EPA must be notified about construction or demolition projects in areas where there are possible asbestos containing materials.

The EPA alleged that Olivet Management, LLC violated the asbestos regulations of the Clean Air Act by improperly handling and disposing of asbestos containing materials. Federal regulations require inspections before any demolition or construction activities, to identify any asbestos material that may pose a threat to workers or the public.

In addition to the project’s postponement, the EPA has required Olivet Management, LLC to prepare a work plan for post clean-up at the job site. Olivet Management must submit the plan to the EPA for approval. The investigation is still continuing at this time. EMSL’s New York City laboratory is open 24 hours / 7 days a week to analyze asbestos samples and can be reached at 212-290-0051.

EMSL Analytical has provided asbestos analysis for over 30 years and is fully equipped and accredited to test for the presence of asbestos in air, soil, water, and bulk building materials,” states Ed Cahill, Vice President of EMSL’s Asbestos Division.

To learn more about EMSL’s laboratory services or upcoming workshops, please visit www.EMSL.com, email  info@EMSL.com , or call (800) 220-3675.

[b]About EMSL Analytical, Inc.[/b]
EMSL is a full service testing laboratory specializing in air quality testing (indoor and ambient air), microbiology (environmental & aquatic), water quality (waste water & drinking water), compliance & regulatory, industrial hygiene, combustible dust, explosives, radiochemistry and mixed waste testing, dioxins, materials and forensic testing, pharmaceutical testing, mechanical testing, food & consumer products testing.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical

(1) 1-800-220-3675

jfrasca@emsl.com