Contractor Sentenced for Asbestos Exposure: A Wake-Up Call for Workplace Safety

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News Summary

Lance Slayton, a contractor, was sentenced to 10 years in prison for violating safety regulations regarding asbestos exposure, endangering workers and the community.

Contractor Sentenced for Asbestos Exposure: A Wake-Up Call for Workplace Safety

In a shocking case that highlights the ongoing dangers of asbestos exposure, Lance Slayton, a 55-year-old contractor from the Denver area, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison. Slayton’s conviction stemmed from serious violations of safety regulations that endangered not only the workers he hired but also the broader community.

The At-Risk Elder and a Major Asbestos Spill

Slayton’s legal troubles began when he was hired to work on a fire-damaged four-plex in Arvada, Colorado, owned by an 82-year-old property owner. A jury found him guilty in November 2024 of criminal exploitation of an at-risk elder and violations of the Air Quality Control Act. The charges came after Slayton was informed of a “major spill” of asbestos at the site but chose to ignore the grave implications of his actions.

Neglecting Worker Safety

The situation worsened when Slayton employed a worker, Jimmy Gollihugh Jr., to tackle the project without informing him of the hazardous materials present. Alarmingly, Slayton reportedly removed necessary asbestos warning signs before Gollihugh arrived to work, a blatant disregard for safety protocols. Gollihugh, who lacked the proper licensing for asbestos abatement, was observed working without essential personal protective equipment. This negligence could have led to long-term health consequences for Gollihugh, exposing him to the toxic effects of asbestos.

State Intervention and Investigation

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment became involved after an engineer, associated with the property owner’s insurance company, reported seeing unprotected work at the site. Investigators uncovered significant amounts of asbestos debris in an open trailer near the four-plex, posing a public health risk. Despite being paid over $71,000 for the project, Slayton failed to complete the necessary abatement, leaving the site dangerously unregulated.

Legal Repercussions Beyond Slayton

Slayton’s girlfriend, Christina Beckner, also faced charges in relation to the case, pleading guilty to theft from an at-risk adult and causing a hazardous materials incident. The duo’s actions have underscored the grave consequences that arise when safety regulations are flouted.

Wider Implications of Asbestos Exposure

The ramifications of such negligence extend beyond individual cases. In another recent incident, U-Haul faced accusations of exposing mechanics to asbestos in Spokane, Washington. This situation arose from damaged asbestos flooring tiles in a repurposed K-Mart building, with U-Haul being fined $231,000 for improperly disposing of the materials without taking necessary precautions. Similar issues were reported at JBS Prepared Foods, leading to a $12,000 fine for violations during the removal of flooring tiles.

The Ongoing Threat of Asbestos

Asbestos exposure is notorious for its link to severe health conditions such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other asbestos-related diseases. The EPA and other regulatory agencies impose stringent regulations on the use and disposal of asbestos due to its carcinogenic properties. The handling and disposal of legacy asbestos materials are crucial, especially during any kind of repair, renovation, or demolition.

Conclusion: A Call for Greater Responsibility

This alarming case serves as a crucial reminder of the risks associated with asbestos exposure and the importance of proper safety measures in the construction industry. As the investigations continue and penalties are imposed, all stakeholders must recognize the serious implications of ignoring asbestos safety protocols, for the sake of both workers and the wider community.