Developers & contractors
Asbestos is a known human carcinogen and can cause chronic lung disease as well as lung and other cancers.
Contractors - What you need to know
As a contractor, you must ensure that federal, state and local asbestos laws are adhered to when planning renovation and demolition activities. Laws exist to reduce exposure to asbestos, a known human carcinogen.
Everybody is Responsible
General contractors, sub-contractors, tradespersons, property owners... anyone associated with the project may be held responsible for improper asbestos management.
Don’t assume someone else took care of it. Make sure asbestos requirements are met before you begin your work.
Plan Ahead
Avoid project delays for unplanned asbestos abatement projects.
Include the cost of proper asbestos management in your project planning.
Asbestos Survey Required
If you are impacting existing construction in any way (e.g. renovation, demolition, repair, etc.) an asbestos survey is required before you begin work. Click here for more information about Renovations and Demolitions.
Surveys must be performed by a properly trained and certified individual.
Simply collecting samples and sending them to a lab does not meet survey requirements.
recommended Asbestos Work Practices
Work which disturbs asbestos containing material must be performed by properly certified workers.
The use of approved work practices is required to prevent the release of asbestos fibers into the air.
Access to the work area must be restricted to asbestos workers only.
Work areas must be contained to restrict the release of asbestos outside of the area.
Clean-up of all asbestos containing material must occur before access restrictions are removed.
There are also specific requirements for storage and disposal of asbestos containing material.
Requirements will vary by jurisdiction. Check with state and local environmental, safety and permitting agencies for specific requirements in your area.