U-Haul Faces Hefty Fine for Endangering Workers with Asbestos Exposure

911 Meso Info

911 Meso Info is a dedicated voice in the fight against mesothelioma, committed to raising awareness, providing reliable information, and empowering individuals affected by this rare disease. With a passion for advocacy, 911 Meso Info delivers insightful resources, up-to-date research, and practical tips to help patients and families navigate their mesothelioma journey. From treatment options and legal guidance to emotional support and prevention strategies, 911 Meso Info is your go-to source for comprehensive mesothelioma knowledge. Connect with us to stay informed and find strength in community. Follow 911 Meso Info for trusted advice and support, and join us in spreading awareness for a brighter tomorrow.

News Summary

U-Haul of Spokane has been fined $231,000 for serious asbestos violations during renovations, raising concerns about workplace safety and health risks.

U-Haul Faces Hefty Fine for Endangering Workers with Asbestos Exposure

The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) has slapped a staggering $231,000 fine on U-Haul of Spokane for serious violations related to asbestos exposure during renovations at a former K-Mart building. The situation raises alarming questions about workplace safety and corporate responsibility, particularly concerning exposure to such a hazardous material.

Failure to Test for Asbestos

In a move that can only be described as reckless, U-Haul purchased the former K-Mart site in 2019 and launched into extensive renovations without conducting any asbestos testing. Investigations conducted by the Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency (SRCAA) uncovered a shocking 90,000 square feet of vinyl floor tiles and adhesive that contained asbestos, a substance notorious for its health risks, including diseases such as mesothelioma and asbestosis.

Persistent Violations Despite Warnings

This is not the first time U-Haul has been in hot water over asbestos handling practices. The SRCAA had previously issued fines and provided guidance on safe management procedures concerning asbestos. Incredibly, even after these warnings, the hazardous tiles remained at the Spokane facility, which opened its doors in March 2023.

Hazardous Working Conditions

The situation became particularly alarming when mechanics working on rental trucks noticed the flooring deteriorating rapidly. Loose tiles began to peel and break under the weight of vehicles. Instead of following safe disposal protocols, management directed workers to dispose of the damaged tiles in standard trash bins, exposing them to dangerous materials without appropriate protective measures.

Lack of Training and Equipment

Adding fuel to the fire, employees tasked with removing flooring resorted to using shovels, putty knives, and even torches—without the required protective gear. The absence of proper training and certification for asbestos removal was glaringly evident, as employees were only equipped with disposable gloves and safety glasses, ignoring the necessity of respirators and other essential safety equipment.

Serious Citations and Consequences

L&I’s investigation determined that U-Haul was guilty of 16 asbestos-related violations, some of which were classified as “willful,” implying that the company was acutely aware of the regulations yet chose to disregard them. U-Haul has a troubling history in this regard, having faced similar issues in California, where the same franchise owner was fined for asbestos handling violations in 2019.

Personal Accountability and State Fund Allocation

Craig Blackwood, assistant director at L&I, highlighted that U-Haul management not only mismanaged safety protocols but seemingly encouraged hazardous practices within the facility. In a shocking twist, U-Haul of Spokane has not appealed the citation, opting instead to accept the consequences of their actions.

The fine will ultimately be directed towards the state’s workers’ compensation supplemental pension fund, aimed at supporting workers who have suffered injuries or whose families have been impacted by workplace-related fatalities. This allocation underscores the serious nature of the offenses committed by U-Haul.

Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure

Asbestos remains a potent threat in occupational settings, often leading to fatal diseases such as lung cancer and asbestosis. Only contracted, certified abatement specialists are legally authorized to handle the removal and disposal of asbestos-containing materials. Although U-Haul did make some efforts to address the issue by coating certain tiles with epoxy and hiring a certified company for part of the removal work, about 7,400 square feet of asbestos-laden tiles still went untreated.

Conclusion

The situation at U-Haul of Spokane serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities that employers have toward their workers. The company’s persistent disregard for asbestos regulations, despite previous guidance and warnings, not only endangers employees but also casts a shadow on U-Haul’s corporate ethics. As the dust settles on this dire situation, it remains to be seen how the company will address the health repercussions for its employees and the broader implications for workplace safety across its operations.