Federal agents find asbestos in the old Whitney Mill in Spartanburg County. They began the search on Tuesday after a federal warrant was issued.
According to the warrants filed by the Environmental Protection Agency
In November 2008: DHEC received anonymous tip of illegal asbestos removal inside the old Whitney Mill.
In January 2009: The U.S. EPA criminal investigation division received the tip information from DHEC.
Inspectors met with facility owner, who now owns a sign and awning-making shop inside the facility. The observe what they suspect is asbestos-contaminated insulation on the walkway of the loading dock, the stairwell leading from the loading dock, and basement of mill.
On main level, they observed yellow asbestos bags filled with fiberglass.
They also found a room that was sealed off with what they believe as asbestos inside.
According to investigators: "The location is upstate awnings was an immediate concern because the area is occupied and there was evidence of visible suspect debris contamination in the work space.". The awning shop has been in operation for 12 years.
They took 5 samples for testing. Four samples collected in the awning shop tested positive for asbestos and one in basement came back positive.
The owner of mill told investigators he didn't know he had to follow DHEC regulations. He also told them it was the contractors idea to seal off a room with asbestos.
EPA Agents broke down one wall, behind it they saw an 8-foot tunnel filled top to bottom full of asbestos bags.
The former owner informed the new owner about the problem before the sale.
A witness says the new owner, James Kim, hired 2 men to remove asbestos. The only equipment Kim purchased for the contractors were leather gloves, paper masks and box cutter knifes.
Kim is facing possible charges of violating the Federal Clean Air Act.
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