AMHERST — A Sunderland contractor is facing a state fine of almost $30,000 for violations that occurred during asbestos abatement work at the University of Massachusetts, authorities announced Friday.

The state Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has assessed a $29,776 fine against Warner Bros. LLC, saying the company failed to properly contain and minimize releases of asbestos while working on a steam line during construction activities on the university’s Clark Hill Steam Project. The company’s actions led to the potential release of asbestos fibers into the environment.

MassDEP discovered the violations during an inspection of asbestos abatement activities at the property on Clark Hill Road.

“Compliance with MassDEP asbestos regulations is mandatory,” said Michael Gorski, director of the department’s western regional office in Springfield. “This penalty could have been avoided by diligent compliance with the requirements, which are designed to prevent the release of asbestos and protect the health and safety of the public and the asbestos workers.”

A UMass spokesperson said the university was reviewing the DEP’s findings.

Warner Bros. will pay $21,000 of the assessed penalty and must comply with the terms of the consent order signed with MassDEP. If the company fails to comply with the terms of the order, they will be required to pay the full assessed penalty amount.

Terms of the consent order were not immediately available Friday.

Property owners or contractors with questions about asbestos-containing materials, notification requirements, proper removal, handling, packaging, storage and disposal procedures, or asbestos regulations, are encouraged to contact the appropriate MassDEP regional office for assistance.