The violations occurred at buildings owned by the Chevron Environmental Management Company on the campus of the Jayhawk Chemical Plant, Highway 69, Galena. About 40 percent of the bags held asbestos-containing materials left over from demolition activities.
State law requires that such material be stored in sealed containers or properly disposed.
Airborne asbestos particles create risks to human health if they are inhaled. Potential health problems associated with asbestos exposure can include lung cancer and other severe long-term health problems. Contractors are required to submit formal notification to KDHE at least ten working days before demolition activities begin. This is done to assure that buildings are properly inspected and abated for asbestos prior to demolition. The department s order is subject to administrative appeal.