Code Compliance Tips for EPA Asbestos Regulations

The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) tightened control in 2009, calling for all homes, and building owners to comply with the asbestos regulations. An increased number of asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer cases are being reported from exposure to asbestos, at home and work. Asbestos is a commonly found fibrous mineral, which has long and thin fibers that cannot be seen by naked eyes. Indoor exposure to asbestos materials over a period poses fatal hazards.

Asbestos Exposure at Home

Due to its property of insulation to heat and chemicals, asbestos has been widely used in roofing material, shingles, floor tiles, cement, paper products and more. When in good condition and undisturbed, asbestos poses no health risk; however with any damage or indent into the asbestos containing material its possible for asbestos fibres being released which can cause cancer.

EPA Asbestos Regulations for Home

EPA has kept homes out of the fray of asbestos regulations, leaving it to the owners choice to follow the regulations. However, there are certain do’s and don’ts for homeowners to avoid the risk from asbestos fibers. There are different laws in different states pertaining to asbestos handling when going for any kind of repair or remodeling of the home. Homeowners need to obtain permits from state authorities before remodeling and renovating their homes.

Identification of Asbestos Materials

With too many items and accessories around and inside the home, it is hard to tell which items particularly contain asbestos. Thus, EPA asbestos regulations suggest that homeowners should go for sampling by a qualified asbestos professional. The asbestos inspector will list down the items that contain asbestos and recommendations over their usage, after sampling. It is the job of the asbestos inspector to handle the hazardous material as they are well trained for the job.

Repair

There can be instances of damage to asbestos containing material, and in such cases there is no need to panic. The first step is to go for a local repair. The local repair means, encapsulation (sealing) and enclosure (covering). Sealing means, using a sealant to keep the asbestos fibers from binding. In covering; a sheet, cloth or plastic is used to wrap around the material to keep the asbestos fibers from spreading. However, a trained professional should do both these processes.

Restraint

This is the single most important tip to follow for homeowners for code compliance with EPA asbestos regulations. Restraint from any kind of activity in the zone containing any damaged material suspected to have asbestos. It’s better to vacate that area completely. Also, do not disturb the suspected risk items like broken cement pipe, flooring cover or pads. One should restraint from sweeping or vacuuming the damaged material parts, as it increases the risk of exposure to asbestos fibers. No one in the family should try to handle the asbestos-suspected material. Rather call a trained asbestos professional to do the entire minor or major repair as well as hazardous material handling. Lastly, keep the children and pets away from the place.

These are some of the most basic code compliance tips for EPA asbestos regulations at homes. Follow these tips in your best interest to prevent fatal diseases caused by asbestos exposure.