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December 2021

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OSHA Requirements For Commercial Properties With Asbestos

By Asbestos Regulations, Hazardous Materials InformationNo Comments

Asbestos, best known for its insulation qualities and fire-resistant capabilities, was commonly used to construct commercial properties. During the late 80s, reports began to link asbestos exposure to illnesses like lung cancer and respiratory illnesses. People who worked in construction, HVAC, and plumbing were generally exposed to high levels of asbestos, which led to deadly conditions like mesothelioma.

OSHA Requirements

OSHA breaks down commercial asbestos exposure and removal into classes. Class one is the most hazardous, and class 4 is the least hazardous. OSHA has strict regulations on the renovation and demolition of commercial properties that contain asbestos. Asbestos is at its most dangerous when it is disturbed through remodels and destruction. Before any renovations or demolition can occur, the older building must be tested and inspected by a certified asbestos abatement professional. This is a strict requirement, and fines can be given if the regulations are not followed properly.

If the commercial property contains asbestos, an asbestos abatement contractor will need to be present for the removal of any asbestos-containing materials before any renovations take place. This is also the case with older building demolitions. If the property contains asbestos, it will need to be handed over to an asbestos abatement contractor for removal. The goal of OSHA is to protect everyone from asbestos exposure. If the job is not handled correctly, it can cause people to become exposed to asbestos unknowingly. This will cause illnesses, often severe, later on down the road.

While OSHA requirements are strict, they are put into place for your protection. No one wants to knowingly or unknowingly cause someone to be exposed to asbestos. Asbestos causes cancers and often death. If you own a commercial property, it is important that you understand all OSHA asbestos requirements and that you adhere to them strictly.

December 10, 2021
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EPA Required Reports On Asbestos Imports and Uses – The Importance

By Asbestos RegulationsNo Comments

The Environmental Protection Agency was created in the 70s and is tasked with environmental assessments, education, and research. The EPA enforces and maintains national standards for many environmental laws and regulations, including asbestos. The EPA has several laws regarding asbestos, including AHERA, ASHARA, and AIA. Asbestos is not entirely banned in the United States, even though many laws and regulations surround the dangerous fiber. Below, we will talk about the importance of asbestos imports, the uses, and reports that monitor asbestos entering the United States.

The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization filed a petition earlier this year to ensure the EPA collects information on asbestos use and exposure so that they can evaluate the risks asbestos has to the health of the public. Since this petition was filed, a judge has ordered the EPA to require companies to report the use of asbestos and the import through the Toxic Substances Control Act.

This is a huge step in protecting everyone from the harmful exposure of asbestos. Without knowing exactly what products contain asbestos, it makes it impossible to regulate and protect people from exposure. With proper reports, asbestos companies and the public will be more aware of products imported into the US containing asbestos. This simple addition can help create a safer environment for industry workers, their families, and everyone who could come into contact with asbestos fibers.

With more petitions and states joining the fight against asbestos, we could see a day where asbestos is banned in the United States. Asbestos is banned in other countries, and the hope is that asbestos will be a danger of the past one day. Asbestos exposure is highly dangerous and can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer, and lifelong respiratory illnesses for many. Asbestos inspections and testing are the first steps to protecting your family. If your property contains asbestos, a licensed asbestos abatement company can legally remove and dispose of asbestos from your property, ensuring the home or business is safe.

December 3, 2021
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