Abestos Testing

Asbestos Testing in Washington and Idaho

Asbestos, once a widely used material in construction for its fire-resistant properties, is now recognized as a hazardous substance due to health risks when its fibers are inhaled. In both Washington and Idaho, regulations are in place to manage and mitigate these risks through asbestos testing and abatement.

In Washington State, asbestos testing is crucial before any renovation or demolition project. The Washington State Department of Ecology mandates that asbestos professionals conduct surveys to identify asbestos-containing materials (ACM) in buildings, particularly those built before the 1980s when asbestos use was more prevalent. The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency requires notification for projects involving asbestos removal, ensuring proper containment and disposal to prevent fiber release into the air. Washington's stringent regulations aim to protect public health by enforcing certification for workers and contractors involved in asbestos work.

Similarly, in Idaho, although the state has fewer regulations directly managed by its government, asbestos exposure remains a concern due to natural deposits and past industrial uses. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees asbestos regulations in Idaho, where companies and individuals must adhere to federal guidelines for testing and abatement. Idaho's history with asbestos includes natural occurrences in areas like the Kamiah deposit, making testing essential for both residential and commercial projects to avoid health hazards like mesothelioma and asbestosis.

Both states stress the importance of testing by certified professionals to ensure safety, highlighting that while asbestos in good condition may be left undisturbed, any damage or planned disturbance requires immediate professional assessment and management.

We are EPA AHERA Asbestos Inspectors.