FLORENCE, AZ – Valued for its flame retardancy, structural integrity and insulation properties, asbestos was widely used in construction until the 1980s. It can still be used today in certain applications. The United States has not banned the use of asbestos but its use is limited and special consideration is necessary when working around asbestos. Pinal County will present a seminar on October 19 from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM to explain the federal rules and requirements for working around asbestos.
“People would be surprised at the wide variety of products and materials that contain asbestos,” said Kale Walch from Pinal County’s Air Quality program. “The federal regulations on asbestos presume that any commercial structure may contain the substance. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rules require testing to prove that asbestos is not present.”
The EPA rules are administered by Pinal County’s Air Quality program. Prior to remodeling, additions, construction or renovations to existing commercial structures, the structure must be tested for asbestos.
“We’re holding this seminar on October 19 to help educate and inform the contractor, builder, remodeler and building management community,” Walch explained. “We will also cover dust control requirements for a variety of commercial construction projects.”
The October 19 seminar would be ideal for professionals such as:
- Facility Managers
- Building Owners
- Developers
- Contractors & Remodelers
- Fire Departments
- Permitting Agencies
In addition to the local requirements, the seminar will cover the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) and requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
Registration IS required but attendance is free. To register go to:
www.eia-az.org.
The program will be held in the Emergency Operations Center, which is to the right of the main entrance to Building F at 31 North Pinal Avenue. The registration deadline is the Monday prior to the October 19 workshop. Lunch will be provided.
For more information, contact Kale Walch at
kale.walch@pinalcountyaz.gov or 520-866-6960.