So why should you care about asbestos in your commercial building? Asbestos exposure poses a serious health risk. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the American Medical Association (AMA), prolonged exposure to asbestos can cause up to four different types of cancer and may also increase the risk of cancer and other diseases. Occupational exposure is the No. 1 cause of asbestos-related disease. Secondary exposure can cause all of these conditions, too.
Asbestos was once praised for its low cost, strength, durability, nonconductivity, and resistance to water and fire. As a result, it was used in almost all construction projects through 1980. Currently, nonfriable asbestos-containing materials continue to be produced and installed during renovations and new construction projects. Given our understanding of how dangerous asbestos is, this begs the question: “Does my workspace or building have asbestos in it? How will this affect my day-to-day activities? Is it dangerous for the individuals in my building?”
Ever since the Clear Air Act of 1970, there has been an increased effort to protect the population from toxic materials, especially during renovations and demolitions. As required by the EPA’s National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) regulation (Title 40, Chapter I, Subchapter C, Part 61, Subpart M), the owner or operator of a demolition or renovation activity must thoroughly inspect and identify the presence of asbestos.
Subpart M—National Emission Standard for Asbestos
- 145 Standard for demolition and renovation.
(a) Applicability. To determine which requirements of paragraphs (a), (b), and (c) of this section apply to the owner or operator of a demolition or renovation activity and prior to the commencement of the demolition or renovation, thoroughly inspect the affected facility or part of the facility where the demolition or renovation operation will occur for the presence of asbestos, including Category I and Category II nonfriable ACM. The requirements of paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section apply to each owner or operator of a demolition or renovation activity, including the removal of RACM as follows:
If you are considering a project like this, be sure to carefully assess each of the following locations with a professional.
These are locations most likely to have asbestos-containing materials.
Flooring – Leveling compound, sheet flooring (linoleum), floor tile, and mastics (adhesive).
Walls – Plaster, drywall joint compound, and mastics.
Ceilings – Plaster, textured ceiling plaster (popcorn), drywall joint compound, ceiling tile, and mastics.
Boilers/Breaching – Insulation, gaskets, and fire brick.
Pipe/Duct – Insulation, mudded fittings, seam sealants, and vibration dampers.
Fireproofing – Spray-applied fireproofing on structural steel, bar joists, decking, and ductwork.
Waterproofing – Coatings.
Windows – Caulk and glazing.
Doors/Fire Doors – Caulk and insulation.
Exterior – Precast paneling, cementitious/galvanized panels (corrugated/standing seam), cementitious siding/soffits, and caulk.
Roof – Built-up roofing membranes/mastics, flashing, galvanized silver paint, and cementitious shingles.
Miscellaneous – Lab counters, elevator brake pads, and block filler.
Asbestos is generally safe if it is left undisturbed; however, it is important to know your local laws and regulations and to remain compliant with them. Most often, it requires you as an owner to plan for some asbestos abatement. If you suspect you may have asbestos in your building, contact ACM Services for testing assistance and compliance inquiries.
Here at ACM Services, we have been working with building owners and contractors for over 30 years, helping them to stay compliant and keep their occupants safe.