Asbestos Removal Laws Designed to Protect You

Here’s what every homeowner needs to know about asbestos removal in California, according to Scott Tamayo from Environmental Remedies, Inc., a Diamond Certified company. Cal/OSHA operates under a legislative mandate to register contractors and other employers who perform asbestos-related work. Anyone who removes more than 100 sq. ft. of asbestos containing materials must be registered with Cal/OSHA. If the materials are less than 100 sq. ft., by law, homeowners can remove the materials themselves.

However, homeowners and a surprisingly high number of contractors are misinterpreting this mandate while putting themselves, customers, employees, and the public at risk. These homeowners are incorrectly assuming that because they can legally perform the removal without certification, they don’t have to follow the numerous regulations. By taking on such a project, homeowners are taking on the liability normally assumed by a professional abatement firm. Improper handling of asbestos-containing materials can lead to costly clean-ups, potential criminal charges, and fines.