American Air Testing
Phone
Free Quote
  • Home
  • About Us
    • John R. Riera Curriculum Vitae
    • John J. Riera Curriculum Vitae
  • Services
    • Asbestos
      • EPA List
    • Toxic Mold Testing
      • Allergens
    • Lead Testing
    • Leak Detection
    • Odors
      • Special Projects
    • Litigation Consulting
    • Sewage
  • Pricing
  • Environmental Tips and Tricks
  • Home
  • About Us
    • John R. Riera Curriculum Vitae
    • John J. Riera Curriculum Vitae
  • Services
    • Asbestos
      • EPA List
    • Toxic Mold Testing
      • Allergens
    • Lead Testing
    • Leak Detection
    • Odors
      • Special Projects
    • Litigation Consulting
    • Sewage
  • Pricing
  • Environmental Tips and Tricks

Asbestos Awareness & Safety Guide

Table of Contents

Asbestos Information Guide

Important Disclaimer Regarding Licensed Inspections

This guide serves as an informational resource only and is not intended to replace a professional inspection. For any building constructed before 1980 - 85, please consult a licensed asbestos professional to perform proper Inspections and testing before initiating any removal work. Alternatively, you may proceed under the assumption that asbestos is present and engage a qualified asbestos abatement contractor.

While removal of less than 100 square feet may be classified as construction waste for disposal purposes, this does not imply that untrained individuals should attempt removal. Improper handling can lead to building-wide contamination.

Professional clearance inspections are essential after any asbestos removal and before reconstruction begins. Omitting this critical step can result in significant complications:

  • Buildings may be reconstructed only to later discover airborne asbestos fibers
  • This often necessitates complete removal of new construction materials
  • Subsequent comprehensive testing must then be conducted until acceptable asbestos levels are achieved

Probable Asbestos-Containing Building Materials

The following materials commonly contained asbestos in buildings constructed before the 1980s. Please note that construction date alone should not be relied upon when planning demolition, renovation, or structural modifications.

Professional Recommendation: Testing is advised prior to remodeling, renovation, or demolition of all buildings, regardless of age. This list serves as a reference but is not exhaustive.

Flooring Materials

Vinyl tiles and adhesives used beneath flooring materials, including black asbestos mastic.

Insulation

Common in older buildings for heat and fire resistance. Types include vermiculite, cellulose, loose-fill fiberglass, and rock wool insulation.

Ceiling Treatments

Spray-applied textured ceilings ("popcorn ceilings") manufactured before 1980 often contain asbestos. Ceiling tiles and lay-in panels, especially in drop ceilings, may also contain asbestos.

Wall Materials

Drywall, joint compound for seams and patches, textured paints (banned in 1977), wall patching compounds, and older vinyl wall coverings.

Roofing and Exterior Materials

Certain roofing materials, shingles, and siding products made from asbestos cement.

Pipe and Mechanical Systems

Insulation on pipes and boilers, cement pipes used in municipal water and sewage systems, and duct connectors (fabric joining ductwork).

Electrical Components

Insulation in electrical panels and linings, older electrical breakers, and other electrical components.

Fireproofing and Heat-Resistant Materials

Materials used for fireproofing, spray-applied insulation for soundproofing or thermal insulation, artificial ashes and embers in gas-fired fireplaces, and certain thermal paper products.

Sealing and Joining Materials

Caulk and sealants used around windows and doors, gaskets and packings in industrial settings, particularly those designed for high-temperature applications.

Additional Resources

We encourage you to explore these valuable resources for more comprehensive information about asbestos safety, testing, and abatement procedures:

Regulatory Resources

  • Bay Area Air Quality Management District
  • EPA Asbestos Information

Testing and Abatement Guidance

  • How Many Samples Will I Need?
  • Who Can Test for Asbestos
  • Asbestos Testing Procedures

Additional Resources

  • What to Expect During an Asbestos Abatement
  • Does My Furnace Have Asbestos?

Risk Assessment

  • Learn About Asbestos Testing
  • Access Your Asbestos Risks

Safety First: Consult with Professionals

When dealing with potential asbestos-containing materials, professional guidance is essential for your safety and that of others. We strongly recommend consulting with certified asbestos professionals before undertaking any renovation or demolition project in buildings that may contain these materials.

Get a Quote From Us

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice.

For the most current regulations and guidelines, please consult with appropriate regulatory agencies and certified professionals.

American Air Testing


Mold | Asbestos | Lead | Odors

668 Madrid St. | PO Box 12479   | San Francisco, CA 94112

Free Quote
ACAC
Search
  • Home
  • About Us
    • John R. Riera Curriculum Vitae
    • John J. Riera Curriculum Vitae
  • Services
    • Asbestos
      • EPA List
    • Toxic Mold Testing
      • Allergens
    • Lead Testing
    • Leak Detection
    • Odors
      • Special Projects
    • Litigation Consulting
    • Sewage
  • Pricing
  • Environmental Tips and Tricks
  • Home
  • About Us
    • John R. Riera Curriculum Vitae
    • John J. Riera Curriculum Vitae
  • Services
    • Asbestos
      • EPA List
    • Toxic Mold Testing
      • Allergens
    • Lead Testing
    • Leak Detection
    • Odors
      • Special Projects
    • Litigation Consulting
    • Sewage
  • Pricing
  • Environmental Tips and Tricks
Privacy Page
Copyright 2024
Covid 19, RSV & Infectious Diseases