EPA Announces Start of Asbestos Cleanup at the Former Columbian ...

October 21, 2024

Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will begin cleaning up asbestos-contaminated debris at the former Columbian Enameling site at 1536 and 1600 Beech Street, in Terre Haute, Indiana. The agency anticipates the cleanup will about a year to complete.

“Terre Haute residents have the right to live in their community without being exposed to hazardous substances,” said EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore. “EPA is committed to removing all asbestos from the former Columbian Enameling & Stamping company.”

“We are ecstatic and blessed that the EPA has decided to conduct site cleanup here in Terre Haute,” said City of Terre Haute Mayor Brandon Sakburn. “We wanted to thank IDEM, the EPA staff, our Federal representatives Congressman Bucshon and Senator Young, the Biden-Harris Administration, and our local engineering team for their hard work on this endeavor. This site clean-up shows our community that cities like Terre Haute will no longer be left behind. This is a true win for our community.”

The Columbian Enameling & Stamping Co. operated from 1902 until 1968 producing enamel cookware. In 2021, the current owner of the property hired a salvage company to extract valuable materials from the building without required permits. In April 2022, the Indiana Building Inspectors Office issued a cease work order. In December 2023, Indiana Department of Environmental Management requested EPA assistance to assess the site.

During EPA’s assessment, asbestos-containing materials were found on-site. EPA will remove the debris from the building and dispose it in an EPA-approved landfill. During removal, EPA will spray water on debris to control any dust and will monitor the air to ensure asbestos fibers do not leave the cleanup area.

The sidewalk outside the site will be closed off with temporary fencing throughout work activities. Residents could see more traffic and hear noise around the cleanup area.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has a fibrous form, which makes it a strong and heat-resistant material. It was historically used in many products and is still present in older homes and buildings.

Breathing in fibers from the breakdown or disposal of old asbestos products can cause harmful health effects. Potential health issues can include shortness of breath and a persistent cough. Long-term exposure is linked to mesothelioma and lung cancer. As a result, EPA has banned most uses of asbestos.

To learn more about the cleanup, visit EPA’s website.

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