Chicago health officials abruptly shut down Dearborn Wholesale Grocers, the small grocery at 1841 W. 79th St. in the Beverly View area, on Friday after inspectors documented what they called a “serious asbestos risk” at the store. The market will stay closed until the owner carries out a city-approved plan to remove or contain the hazardous material. Neighbors who shopped there in early April were given instructions on how to safely throw out items and clean any potentially contaminated clothing and household surfaces.
Inspectors reported finding an open dumpster outside the building that was filled with asbestos-containing material, and they documented abatement work that disturbed the store’s floor tiles while both workers and customers were still inside, as reported by Block Club Chicago. The Chicago Department of Public Health responded with emergency cease-and-desist and abatement orders for the property owner and taped closure notices to the storefront, the outlet reported. Reporters left a message seeking comment from Dearborn Wholesale Grocers.
In a statement to Block Club Chicago, CDPH Commissioner Dr. Olusimbo Ige said, “Protecting residents from dangerous environmental and public health hazards is one of CDPH's most important responsibilities.” The department urged shoppers to discard any goods bought at the store between April 5 and April 15, place those items in sealed bags, and wash clothing and household surfaces that might have collected dust from the store.
What Officials Found And Ordered
According to the Chicago Department of Public Health, inspectors documented multiple asbestos-related hazards at the 1841 W. 79th St. location and concluded the situation posed an immediate risk to public health. The emergency orders bar any further disturbance of suspect materials and require the owner to submit and complete a city-approved abatement plan before the store can reopen.
Health Risks And What To Do
Exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis, serious illnesses that often take many years to develop, according to the American Cancer Society. Federal guidance also warns that dry sweeping or using a regular vacuum can stir fibers into the air instead of safely removing them. Officials say residents should follow CDPH’s advice on sealing and washing items and rely on licensed abatement professionals for any cleanup, per the EPA. Anyone with health concerns should contact their medical provider.
What Comes Next For The Store
The grocery will remain closed while the owner prepares and carries out a city-approved abatement and reopening plan. The Chicago Department of Public Health will have to confirm that cleanup work and air testing meet public-health standards before the business is allowed to open its doors again. Officials say they will update nearby residents as the department reviews and signs off on the work.
Residents with questions can contact the Chicago Department of Public Health or call 311 for more information. This story will be updated as officials release additional details.
