State: Contractor got workers off Craigslist to remove asbestos in Everett

Great North West Painting LLC, a contractor from Pierce County, is facing a fine of $134,500 for a poorly executed asbestos removal project at a residential property in Everett. The state Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) discovered that the contractor violated over 28 serious safety regulations after receiving a complaint from the homeowners. An inspection revealed that workers, recruited via Craigslist, lacked necessary training and protective equipment for handling toxic materials. Owner Bogdan Karcha disagrees with the findings and is appealing the citations. Violations included failing to seal off contaminated areas and improper use of respiratory protection, exposing both workers and residents to hazardous asbestos dust.

Craig Blackwood, assistant director of L&I, condemned the contractor's actions, emphasizing the severe risk posed to customers and workers. L&I urges homeowners to reference its online list of certified asbestos removal contractors, serving as a critical reminder of the importance of adhering to safety protocols in hazardous work environments.