Tuesday, July 1, 2008

Asbestos Floor Tile Removal

Can anyone enlighten me on the Maine DEP’s minimum abatement requirements for the removal of asbestos floor tile? The Hospital has some small offices in which we’re replacing carpeting, under which there are old asbestos tiles. We typically have had an abatement contractor remove all of the asbestos tile from these types of projects in the past; however, if most of the tiles are sound, and a just a few are loose or damaged, does the state allow removal of those tiles without going through the notification process and using a licensed abatement contractor to conduct the removal?

6 comments:

Maine Healthcare Engineers said...

My 2 cents: I believe that they have to be trained & have always used an asbestos remover…. Even on these small ones. We have a local that treats us very fair. You may want to call John Bucci DEP Asbestos Inspector 287-7756 for his interpretation.

Maine Healthcare Engineers said...

I would use a licensed removal company just to be safe. In today's climate you can never tell who may be around or who may report you. The risk is just to great even for a small job.

Maine Healthcare Engineers said...

I believe that the answer is 3’x3’ is the allowable amount that can be in house. I agree with Ron as even with small jobs there is disposal.

Maine Healthcare Engineers said...

OK, here’s my less-than-2 cents worth. I believe 3”X3” is the right amount but I also believe it has to be done by a certified person. The only thing not required is notification to the State.

Maine Healthcare Engineers said...

Milt, the fed requirement for a "spot repair" / glove bag removal is 3 sq ft or 3 liner feet. This still requires you to follow removal and disposal procedures, but does not require air sampling at the end. Keep in mind that if you consider the tiles to be asbestos, there is a good chance the glue holding them is? Fred

Anonymous said...

Asbestos removal should be taken very seriously. It can do so much harm...