Arizona DEQ to update Asbestos Regulations
All states are regulated by NESHAP, National Emission Standard for Asbestos as part of the Clean Air Act, which is a federal law requiring adherence to certain practices when it comes to renovation and demolition activities where asbestos is present. Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is proposing revisions to their regulations when it comes to such projects that contractors and asbestos abatement companies should be aware of.
Projects of any buildings or sites that were constructed before the mid 1980’s are likely to involve renovating or removing asbestos containing materials. Compliance with air quality regulations is required to protect the safety of workers and the general public. Exposure to asbestos has been linked with mesothelioma, a rare yet aggressive form of cancer that begins in the lining of the heart, abdomen or lungs. It has also been linked with asbestosis and other types of cancer, and is therefore under strict management requirements.
NESHAP regulates all renovation or demolition projects of public, commercial, industrial, and institutional facilities including apartments, townhomes, or condominiums that have more than four units. It also regulates any work performed on pipelines, bridges or multiple freestanding units. Any of these sites are assumed to have asbestos containing materials (ACMs) if constructed before the mid 1980’s, when regulations restricted the use of ACM’s.
The Arizona DEQ is proposing amendments to their regulations that govern demolition and renovations activities that involve asbestos abatement. One change would be the requirement of air monitoring not only after a project is complete, but also before and during, and that this be performed by an independent third party. It is also proposing changes to what is required for asbestos abatement training certification.
If you are a licensed asbestos abatement contractor or general contractor performing demolition or renovation of any older buildings, make sure to check the current regulations required to protect yourself, your workers, and the public from any chance of exposure to asbestos.
If you suspect that you have been exposed to asbestos, contact an experienced mesothelioma attorney to find out what your legal rights are and to help you get compensation for any asbestos related injury that may have occurred. A mesothelioma lawyer who specializes in asbestos lawsuits will be able to help you recover losses more quickly and successfully than general attorneys. Also, consult with a physician immediately, and let them know of your work history around asbestos to ensure early detection.
