If you’re a Colorado homeowner thinking about taking on an asbestos abatement project yourself, there are a few key things you need to remember. First and foremost, asbestos is a serious health hazard that needs to be handled with care. Secondly, while it is possible to remove asbestos on your own, it’s not something we would recommend unless you have experience with this type of work.
In this blog post, we’ll give you an overview of what you need to know about asbestos abatement in Colorado, including the five key things you need to remember if you’re considering doing the work yourself.
Here are the five key things to remember when it comes to asbestos abatement in Colorado:
#1 ASBESTOS EXPOSURE IS AS SERIOUS AS A HEART ATTACK!
Asbestos is a serious health hazard – If you’re going to be working with asbestos, it’s important that you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your family from exposure. This includes wearing proper personal protective equipment (PPE), ventilating the work area with a HEPA Filter, and disposing of all asbestos waste properly.
#2 IN MOST CASES, YOU DO NEED TO BE CERTIFIED
You may need a license to remove asbestos – In Colorado, anyone who wants to remove more than 260 linear feet of friable (i.e., able to be crumbled by hand) asbestos material or 32 square feet of friable asbestos material needs to obtain a license from the state Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). Following State regulation may avoid hefty fines and allow your home or property project flow smoothly.
#3 MAKE SURE YOU KEEP THE ENVORONMENT SAFE
You may need to notify your neighbors – Depending on the size and scope of your project, you may be required to notify your neighbors of your intentions to remove asbestos from your property. This is typically done through a letter or door hanger delivered 48 hours prior to the start of work. Depending on your type of project, your neighbors have all the right to contact the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE). If you are under compliance, CDPHE could stop your work until the issue is resolved following state regulations.
#4 KEEP YOUR HOME SAFE
Though it may not be a requirement if your project is not regulated, it is highly recommended to have your property inspected after abatement is complete – Once your project is finished, it’s not a bad idea to you have your property inspected by a licensed asbestos inspector before using or occupying any part of it again. This final step will ensure that all hazardous materials have been removed and that your home is safe for occupancy once more.
#5 PLEASE ENSURE PROPER HANDLE & DISPOSAL OF ASBESTOS WASTE MATERIAL
There are specific disposal requirements for asbestos waste – All asbestos waste must be disposed of at an approved landfill. Be sure to check with your local solid waste authority to find out where the nearest approved facility is located and if you allowed to dispose of it.
CONCLUSION
Asbestos abatement is a serious undertaking that should only be attempted by those with experience handling this type of hazardous material. If you’re considering tackling an asbestos removal project yourself, be sure to keep these five key things in mind in order ensure a safe and successful job. You can always reach one of our professionals for proper guidance.
Luis Balmaceda is the President of Clear Developments, an asbestos abatement company based in Denver, Colorado.