Asbestos is extremely hazardous and can cause fatal diseases like asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. Don’t assume newer homes and buildings are asbestos free. Floor tile, mastic, and roofing tar are some examples of asbestos-containing materials still allowed to be sold and used.   

During Asbestos Awareness Week, April 1-7, L&I is reminding homeowners and businesses when making property improvements that could disturb asbestos-containing materials, use only certified asbestos abatement contractors. They are specially trained to take care of job notification, worker safety precautions, and other requirements.

A good faith inspection (GFI) for asbestos is required before any remodel, repair, removal, or other work that could disturb suspect materials. It’s a fundamental first step to understanding what types of abatement measures have to be in place to keep workers safe. 

Projects without a GFI, or where asbestos has been improperly removed, are at risk for immediate stop work orders, citations, and substantial penalties for both property owners and contractors. Doing your part to ensure asbestos is reliably identified and disclosed enables others to take the required actions to stay safe from harm.

Learn more about Asbestos safety & health and the rules that must be followed when working with this toxic material.