1500 Skokie Asbestos Site
Northbrook, Illinois
During a March 14, 2001 investigation undertaken as a result of a citizen
complaint, Illinois EPA inspectors observed substantial quantities of
suspect debris in the commercial building located at 1500 Skokie, Northbrook.
Initial sampling confirmed that the debris was asbestos containing materials
(ACM) and asbestos contamination.
During the investigation, ACM and asbestos contamination were found
on the third floor as well as in the elevator and in the stairwell. The
inspector further observed that the materials were not kept wet, as is
required by law. In addition, the inspector observed no containment and
no primary barriers to keep asbestos fibers from leaving the third floor.
A review of Illinois EPA records indicated that the Illinois EPA received
the required notification for the proposed project. The notification indicated
that 200 square feet of spray-on ACM on beams on the third floor of the
building was to be removed prior to disturbance. The notification further
indicated the regulated area would be kept wet and licensed workers would
remove the ACM. The notification was signed by the contractor and dated
February 22, 2001.
Based on his observations on March 14, the Illinois EPA inspector requested
that renovation activities cease. Analytical results of sampling confirmed
that the materials of concern were asbestos containing. Since there was
an apparent threat to human health and the environment, the Director of
the Illinois EPA sealed the Building preventing public access.
The Illinois EPA then requested that the owner promptly retain a licensed
asbestos abatement project designer to design and submit a plan to determine
the scope of asbestos contamination and the methods and procedures to
be utilized to remediate asbestos contamination and ACM.
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