Asbestos Survey: Is one necessary in Duval County?

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, was once a popular material in the construction industry due to its heat resistance and insulating properties. However, it is now known to be extremely hazardous to health, potentially lurking in various building materials such as insulation, paint, and flooring. When these materials are disturbed, asbestos fibers can be released into the air and become a severe health risk when inhaled. Exposure to asbestos can lead to serious health issues, including life-threatening diseases like mesothelioma and lung cancer. The presence of asbestos not only compromises the safety of living spaces but poses a significant threat to human health.

Recognizing these dangers, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have set stringent guidelines for handling asbestos in buildings. These regulations are in place to ensure both the health of individuals and the safety of the construction environment. Under OSHA, asbestos surveys are mandatory to create a safe working environment, particularly in industries where asbestos exposure is a risk. These surveys are crucial for identifying the presence of asbestos, thereby enabling appropriate safety measures to be implemented.

Similarly, the EPA mandates thorough inspections for asbestos in all commercial structures before any demolition or remodeling work is undertaken. This regulation is crucial for preventing the release of asbestos fibers during such activities, which can have widespread health repercussions for both workers and the public. The EPA’s guidelines ensure that any asbestos-containing materials are safely removed or contained before any structural changes occur.

Asbestos inspections and surveys are more than just regulatory compliance; they are critical steps in safeguarding public health and ensuring safe work and living environments. These processes require expertise, as asbestos can be hard to identify without proper training. Licensed and trained professionals conduct these surveys and inspections, ensuring that asbestos, if present, is safely managed according to federal guidelines.

Do I need an asbestos survey in Duval County?

When undertaking any remodeling, renovation, or demolition project, it's essential to have your site inspected for asbestos to prevent expensive delays. The type of project you're embarking on will determine the specific nature of these inspections and surveys.  Ensuring that your project is compliant with this regulation not only keeps your work on schedule but also safeguards the health and safety of everyone involved.

Renovation/Remodeling Projects: 

• Inspection 
• Removal of materials containing asbestos in an appropriate disposal site 
• 10 day waiting period before removing materials 

Demolition Projects:

• Inspection prior to demolition 
• 10-day waiting period after inspection (even if no asbestos is present) 
• Do not recycle asbestos-contained materials
• Flooring containing asbestos must be disposed of in large sections
• Do not burn structures while asbestos-contained materials are still present 

To familiarize yourself and your crew with the inspection guidelines, please refer to the downloadable document to the left. The City of Jacksonville building department has created a “What You Need to Know” about asbestos which is a helpful resource to ensure that you are following the required steps to locate and dispose of potential asbestos-containing materials at your site. Additionally, the Environmental Protection Agency’s website has resources regarding laws and guidelines to protect you and your site from asbestos. 

A Notice of Demolition or Asbestos Renovation must be filled out if renovations or demolitions are happening for a commercial project. Click the link provided to download a blank form to fill out. On page 2 of the form, there are instructions to follow in order to dispose of asbestos and who is licensed to perform your inspections. 

For both residential and commercial projects, refer to the Demolition and Renovation Asbestos NESHAP Exemption and fill out page 3. Submitting this form is for a residential home survey exemption or a commercial notification exemption. Read through and fill out the document in order to comply with the regulations of the Asbestos National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants. 

Asbestos-containing materials are an extreme hazard to your project's site and your crew. Not disposing of the contained materials can lead to costly delays and serious health issues. Proper discovery and disposal of asbestos will ensure that your project is as safe as possible and that your project timeline remains stable.