Asbestos in Construction

Overview of Topic

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber found in many construction materials, including insulation, floor tiles, roofing shingles, and cement products. Exposure to asbestos fibers can cause serious respiratory diseases, including lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. OSHA's regulation for asbestos in construction (29 CFR 1926.1101) outlines how to safely handle and control exposure to asbestos on job sites.

Inspection Before Use Requirements

Before starting work in any area where asbestos may be present:

• Have a competent person inspect the worksite to identify any materials that may contain asbestos.
• Ensure that all asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) and presumed asbestos-containing materials (PACMs) are clearly labeled and marked.
• Verify that the proper controls and protective equipment are available for workers handling or disturbing asbestos.

If asbestos is present, all work must follow strict safety protocols to prevent fiber release.

Use Requirements

• Asbestos Assessment: Before beginning demolition, renovation, or any activity that could disturb asbestos, employers must conduct an assessment to determine the presence and condition of ACM or PACM.
• Control Methods: Use wet methods, HEPA vacuuming, or local exhaust ventilation to minimize the release of asbestos fibers into the air.
• Proper Disposal: Asbestos waste must be collected in leak-tight containers, labeled, and disposed of according to EPA regulations.

General Industry Rules Applicable to Construction

Several general industry rules (1910.1001) also apply to asbestos work in construction:

• Permissible Exposure Limits (PEL): The PEL for asbestos is 0.1 fibers per cubic centimeter of air (f/cc) as an 8-hour time-weighted average. Employers must ensure that worker exposure does not exceed this limit.
• Air Monitoring: Regular air monitoring is required to assess the concentration of asbestos fibers in the workplace.
• Respirators: Workers must be provided with proper respiratory protection if exposure exceeds the PEL or during certain work tasks, such as during asbestos removal or clean-up.

Other Safety Rules

• Decontamination: Workers must follow decontamination procedures, which include using special clothing and equipment to prevent asbestos fibers from being carried offsite. Shower facilities should be available if required.
• Medical Surveillance: Workers exposed to asbestos above the PEL must be enrolled in a medical surveillance program. This includes periodic exams to detect any health effects from exposure.
• Training and Certification: Any worker performing asbestos removal or abatement must be properly trained and certified according to EPA and OSHA standards.

Specific Regulations

Refer to the following OSHA regulations related to asbestos in construction:

• General Requirements: 29 CFR 1926.1101
• Air Monitoring and Medical Surveillance: 29 CFR 1926.1101(g)
• Asbestos Waste Disposal: EPA regulations, 40 CFR Part 61, Subpart M

Employee Training

Training for workers dealing with asbestos must include:

• Health Effects of Asbestos Exposure: Detailed information on the diseases related to asbestos exposure, including lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma.
• Asbestos-Containing Materials: Identification of common building materials that may contain asbestos and methods for safely handling or avoiding them.
• Asbestos Control Methods: Proper use of wetting techniques, HEPA vacuums, and other control methods to minimize asbestos fiber release.
• Respiratory Protection and PPE: Instruction on the selection, fitting, and use of respirators and personal protective equipment (PPE), as well as proper decontamination procedures.
• Emergency Procedures: Steps to take in the event of accidental asbestos disturbance or fiber release.

Training Tips

• Use hands-on demonstrations of protective equipment and control methods to enhance understanding.
• Include case studies or real-world examples to reinforce the importance of safe asbestos handling.

Where to Go for More Information

• 29 CFR 1926.1101 - Asbestos
• EPA Asbestos Guidelines

By following these regulations and control measures, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with asbestos exposure. Ensure that all workers are properly trained and follow the established safety procedures to protect themselves and others from asbestos-related diseases.