Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral and is the state rock of California, the Serpentine Rock. These minerals are formed of hallow, microscopic fibers which are almost indestructible, heat resistant and can be densely packed making a tough, flexible and very useful material. Due to its special properties, it has been widely used all over the United States. Nearly every building built between 1950 to 1980 contains some form of asbestos. Most common materials that contain asbestos:
- Drywall joint compound - most houses pre-1980 have asbestos in the drywall joint compound at a regulated level
- Acoustical Ceiling - Popcorn ceilings
- Floor tile - Vinyl (9x9) and the glue that holds it down (mastic)
- Linoleum - Found in grey backing material
- Duct work insulation - HVAC Ducting, pipes, and boilers
- Plaster and Stucco - plaster and light weight cement
- Fireproofing - Commercial and Industrial
- Mastic (Glue) - Ceiling tile pucks, base coving, lino, tile, mirrors, etc.
- Roofing mastic, shingles, felt, and silver paint
- Transite vent flues
- Siding - various forms of siding has asbestos
There are different classifications for asbestos, friable asbestos and non-friable asbestos. Friable asbestos is considered any asbestos material that can be pulverized or crumbled by hand pressure. This is where it is most dangerous and the fibers are invisible to the human eye and can be inhaled. Over exposure can cause Asbestosis, one of many diseases were scar tissue caused by the fibers which do not allow oxygen to penetrate the lungs.
AQMD - Rule 1403 require testing be performed by a certified asbestos consultant (C.A.C.) before ANY disturbance of ANY suspect materials (see list above, but not limited to this list. If material is found to contain asbestos a survey MUST be written by the C.A.C. and it must be kept onsite during the abatement and any other renovation activity.
EPA - (AQMD) and local agencies oversee the removal and disposal of all asbestos containing material (ACM) that contain asbestos concentrations of 1% or more. OSHA regulates asbestos as it relates to worker protection at a concentration of .01% (1/10 of 1%) or better known as a trace or less than 1% amount of asbestos. Specific regulations govern the removal, transportation and disposal of all ACM. Improper removal or disposal can result in severe civil and criminal penalties.
Both CAL/OSHA and the US EPA(AQMD) regulate asbestos abatement activities including contractor registration, air quality management and accreditation of training providers.
All of PEAS Inc. employees are thoroughly educated in the handling of asbestos material. In addition, our motto is "Treat everyone's property as if it were our own". All hazardous waste will be removed by a third party fully licensed hauling company so that you can rest assured it is going to the right land fill where it will be properly manifested, handled and disposed of. With over 50 years of extensive field experience dealing with asbestos, you can feel confident the job will be abated properly the first time. Our primary goal at PEAS Inc. is our customers and providing a safe environment for everyone.
For more information on asbestos-related regulations and general information, click on one of the Links Below: