TEST Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral that has been used in insulation, fireproofing, ceiling and floor tiles, shingles, and other building materials. When asbestos fibers become airborne and people inhale them, a number of serious health problems – including asbestosis (a scarring of the lungs) and several types of cancer – can result.

Building materials containing asbestos need to be handled with care to prevent fibers from becoming uncovered or loosened. Any renovation or demolition work involving asbestos must comply with federal and state asbestos abatement regulations:

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates building renovation and demolition work involving asbestos under its National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants ( 40 CFR 61.140 through 61.157 ).   In Massachusetts, two state agencies implement these requirements.   Their roles are described below.

Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) regulations( 310 CMR 7.15) require property owners and/or contractors to notify the agency at least ten (10) working days before disturbing asbestos and to properly handle and dispose of asbestos-containing material to prevent the release of asbestos fibers into the air. MassDEP does not issue site-specific permits for asbestos projects, but may inspect job sites to ensure that work is being or was done in accordance with its rules.

Massachusetts Division of Occupational Safety (DOS) licenses asbestos removal contractors ( 453 CMR 6.00 ) to ensure that they are providing safe conditions for their employees and those who use or are present at the properties where work is being done. For most types of asbestos removal, the use of DOS-licensed contractors is required.

For additional information about asbestos notifications and work requirements in Massachusetts, see the MassDEP Asbestos Home Page .

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