ACMs, or asbestos-containing materials, are a group of naturally occurring minerals that have been used for centuries in various applications due to their excellent heat-resistant properties. However, it was later discovered that exposure to asbestos can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Because of this, the United States government has implemented strict regulations and guidelines for the removal of asbestos-containing materials.
The primary law governing the removal of ACMs in the United States is the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA), which was enacted in 1986 as part of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). AHERA requires all public and private schools to inspect their buildings for asbestos-containing materials and develop an asbestos management plan to reduce the risk of exposure to students and staff. The law also requires that all asbestos-containing materials be removed or encapsulated in a way that prevents the release of asbestos fibers into the air.
In addition to AHERA, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established a set of regulations known as the Asbestos National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP). These regulations apply to the demolition and renovation of buildings that contain asbestos-containing materials. According to NESHAP, any building that is going to be demolished or renovated must undergo an asbestos inspection before work begins. If asbestos is found, it must be removed or encapsulated by a licensed and trained asbestos abatement contractor.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) also has regulations in place to protect workers who may encounter asbestos-containing materials on the job. The OSHA standard for asbestos (29 CFR 1910.1001) requires employers to provide training to workers who may come in contact with asbestos, as well as to provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to those workers. Employers must also perform air monitoring to ensure that the levels of asbestos fibers in the air are below the permissible exposure limit (PEL).
When it comes to the actual removal of asbestos-containing materials, there are several methods that can be used, including wet removal, dry removal, and encapsulation. Wet removal involves spraying the material with water to prevent the release of asbestos fibers into the air. Dry removal involves using tools to remove the material without water, which can be more dangerous because it can release more fibers into the air. Encapsulation involves covering the material with a sealant to prevent the release of fibers.
Regardless of the method used, asbestos removal must be done by a licensed and trained asbestos abatement contractor. These contractors must follow strict guidelines for the removal and disposal of asbestos-containing materials. The materials must be double-bagged in plastic and labeled as containing asbestos, and they must be disposed of at a landfill that is licensed to accept asbestos waste.
In summary, the legal requirements for the removal of asbestos-containing materials in the United States are strict and comprehensive. AHERA, NESHAP, and OSHA all have regulations in place to protect students, workers, and the general public from the health risks associated with asbestos exposure. Asbestos removal must be done by licensed and trained professionals, and the materials must be disposed of at a licensed landfill. By following these guidelines, the risk of asbestos exposure can be greatly reduced.
