B.C. Contractor Faces Jail Time Over Endangering Asbestos Removal Workers

An ongoing British Columbia criminal case underscores the need for proper training and equipment when dealing with asbestos abatement and remediation.

The courts have issued an arrest warrant for a Vancouver man who has been accused of knowingly exposing his employees to asbestos without proper protection or training. According to news reports, the B.C. Court of Appeal has ruled that Arthur Moore was in contempt of court when he continued running his asbestos and drywall removal business in the fall of 2010 after being issued a court order to cease operations. His businesses went  under the names AM Environmental, Tri City Hazmat, Surrey Hazmat and Pro Scan Environmental , among others, and operated in the Vancouver area.

Investigation and witness testimony has revealed a litany of negligence that borders on the outrageous, including failing to train his workers or provide them with protection or equipment, and a complete absence of any safety training. His workers were unaware of the health risks, and he’d even instructed them to run away from the job if government inspectors arrived at a work site. He’s been accused of exploiting young recovering addicts, most under the age of 18 and some as young as 14 years old.

The Crown is looking for a jail sentence in this case, emphasizing the importance of using properly prepared and trained workers. Handling asbestos abatement and remediation work is no joke, and nothing to be taken lightly or casually. At Greenstream Environmental, you can be sure our employees are seasoned, experienced and certified to handle this important and potentially hazardous job. It’s not only their own safety that matters, but yours too. If workers aren’t even aware of the danger to their own health, you can be certain they’re not protecting that of their clients either.

We care about your health and safety, along with that of our workers.

Should you suspect the presence of asbestos in your home or business, Contact GreenStreamEnvironmental.ca – Toronto’s asbestos removal specialists – at (416) 818-9414.

Featured in Mike Holmes’ magazine, HGTV’s Income Properties, W Network’s Love It Or List It and chosen by Homestars.com as “Best Toronto Asbestos Removal Company” based on customer ratings and reviews, GreenStream Environmental Services are fully-certified, trusted and insured professionals in the removal and disposal of commercial, industrial, institutional and residential asbestos, vermiculite, mould (hazardous and non-hazardous). Providing emergency service 24/7/365 for all of Toronto and the GTA, GreenStream has over 40 combined years of experience serving clients such as the City of Toronto, the Toronto District School Board and many more. For a free estimate in Toronto, the GTA and Southern Ontario, call today at 416-818-9414.