Asbestos Awareness

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral that was used extensively for insulation, fire protection, and acoustical applications in buildings constructed before 1980. Examples of materials containing asbestos include: pipe insulation, vinyl floor tiles, thermal system insulation, acoustical plaster ceilings, transite panels in laboratory hoods, and lab benchtops. The materials listed above do not pose a health risk when they are intact and well-maintained.

In order to properly manage asbestos-containing building materials, a comprehensive Operations and Maintenance Plan (O&M Plan) has been developed. The O&M Plan includes general work practices and procedures designed to minimize and/or eliminate the exposure of building occupants, employees, and visitors to airborne asbestos fibers.

Key components of the program include:

• Identification of asbestos-containing building materials.
• Extensive measures to minimize and/or eliminate exposure of students, faculty, staff, employees, service providers, and visitors to airborne asbestos fibers.
• Establishment of an University Asbestos Program Manager.
• Establishment of trained asbestos response personnel.
• Development of University safety guidelines and safe work practices.
• Continuation of the asbestos materials surveillance program.

Contacts

• Overall Program Management - Facilities Services (610)758-3970
• Elaine Kuchera (610)758-4248 emk3@lehigh.edu

References

• OSHA Asbestos Standard (General Industry) 29 CFR 1910.1001
• OSHA Asbestos Standard (Construction Industry) 29 CFR 1926.1101