Innkeeper Accused Of Clean Air Act Violations Through Asbestos Removal -- MesoLink.org -- 07-29-05

A 70-year-old Innkeeper from Sheffield has been accused of violating the Massachusetts Clean Air Act and the Labor and Industries Act. The accusations came after the man allegedly removed asbestos from his Sheffield Inn. David Rothstein allegedly removed the asbestos from the Stagecoach Inn in 2002.

The complaints against Rothstein allege that he got an employee to remove asbestos piping and insulation from the basement of the inn, and this was a time when the inn was operating for business as usual. The violation was reported by a tenant who noticed the employee removing asbestos and insulation without any protective gear.

Following the violation, a hearing was scheduled for July 6th in Great Barrington District Court. Investigators have already verified that the materials removed from the basement contained asbestos. The employee involved has also reported that he was given no protective gear when directed to remove the asbestos.

There are strict regulations in place when it comes to the removal of asbestos, and by failing to follow these regulation Rothstein could face stiff penalties.