6 Chicago-area firms cited for asbestos violations

Federal safety officials say six Chicago-area companies have been cited after workers allegedly were exposed to asbestos and other hazards while renovating a suburban school.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration says the exposure occurred during the summertime renovation of the Chute Middle School cafeteria in Evanston.

OSHA is proposing a combined $132,000 in penalties.

Officials from OSHA and the Illinois Department of Public Health officials say the companies didn't require employees to limit asbestos exposure or wear personal protective equipment while cutting pipes that contained asbestos, failed to take air samples and didn't properly dispose of debris.

Asbestos exposure has been linked to lung cancer.

Inspectors say some workers also were exposed to lead-based paint and electrical hazards.

The companies have 15 days to accept or contest the citations.