North Carolina Asbestos Removal Regulations

It is common knowledge that asbestos causes cancer. Unfortunately this was not always the case, and asbestos was used in many homes and buildings as insulating materials. Much of it still remains but in order to remove it, special personal protective equipment (PPEs) must be worn by workers. In North Carolina, the health Hazards Control Unit (HHCU) regulates the removal of asbestos, since public safety is a top priority.

Permit Required

Under a 2007 North Carolina General Session law, a permit is required for asbestos removal. On the permit, it must be stated whether the removal is for renovating of an existing building or for demolition. Fess are accessed accordingly, taking into account a variety of factors such as amount to be removed, or if for demolition or renovation.

Accreditation

According to Section 10A NCAC 41C .0602, the asbestos removal crews must be accredited. (see reference 3). All personnel must have completed and passed training courses approved by the Program pursuant to Rule .0603. Some highlights of this program include Personal Protective Equipment usage (PPEs), hazmat (hazardous materials) awareness, and industrial safety related courses. the training courses must have been taken no more than 12 months before the application for certification.

Yearly Accreditation

All personnel on the crew must renew their accreditations yearly. This involves taking and passing an approved refresher training course within 24 months preceding the renewal application. No work by the person that is asbestos related can be performed without this.

OSHA Mandates

All federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates are in place as well (see reference 4). An asbestos removal worker must abide by all OSHA asbestos laws such as wearing respirators since federal law supersedes state law. However, North Carolina understands OSHA laws are in place and regulations do not go against any OSHA mandates.

References

• Asbestos in North Carolina: Asbestos Hazard Management Program
• General Assembly of North Carolina: SESSION LAW 2008-107
• North Carolina Office of Administrative Hearings: North Carolina Administrative Code - Asbestos Hazard Management Program
• U.S. Department of Labor: Occupational Safety and Health Administration: Asbestos