$145,000 Asbestos Removal Project at Salem, Oregon Public Library Slated to Begin in 2010

Long-planned asbestos remediation project scheduled to begin at the Salem, Oregon Public Library in early 2010. Even limited exposure to the dangerous mineral is known to cause a number of serious illnesses, including mesothelioma cancer, asbestos-related lung cancer and asbestosis.

In October 2009, the Statesman Journal reported that the lower level of the Salem Public Library asbestos remediation and removal project would begin in early 2010. Library carpeting will also be replaced during that time.

The asbestos abatement project, which is estimated to cost $145,000, as well as the $30,000 estimate to replace carpeting in the building, will be funded by the reallocation of $165,000 in funds from a library lighting-upgrade project and $10,000 in Facilities Services Division funds.

A Salem city council spokesperson advised that they had applied for stimulus funds that will be used to fund the library's lighting upgrade project. The lighting in the building must be replaced, as the ballasts in the lower level of the library are no longer being manufactured.

The library, which was constructed in 1971, underwent partial asbestos abatement in 1991 as part of renovations to the building’s main floor and mezzanine. During a 2007 renovation project, asbestos was removed from the Anderson Room on the lower level.

Regulations for the Safe Removal of Asbestos
Salem officials have assured the public that the asbestos has been encapsulated and that the lower level area will be sealed off during the project. It important to note that the steps the city is taking with regard to the asbestos removal project at the Salem Public Library will involve considerable oversight to assure that no one is placed at undue risk for exposure to dangerous asbestos dust.

The city (as well as commercial and residential property owners) is required to follow both Oregon and federal regulations for the removal and disposal of asbestos-containing materials (ACM). In Oregon, Clean Air Act and the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) are regulated by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).  Click here for more information about Oregon asbestos regulations.

Weitz & Luxenberg Can Help Families Affected by Asbestos Disease
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, we may be able to help you to seek justice for your illness and file a lawsuit on your behalf.

Please complete the form on this page for a free and confidential review of your potential asbestos lawsuit or request a free copy of our asbestos sourcebook.

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