Flooring Contractors Should Test Flooring for Asbestos to Avoid EPA Fines

EMSL Analytical provides quick and accurate asbestos testing solutions.

Westmont, NJ

This summer a flooring company from New England was involved with renovating a school in Montpelier, Vermont. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the company violated federal asbestos regulations when they removed a vinyl tile floor that contained asbestos. Now the company is facing a possible $32,500 fine per day for the alleged violations.

According to the Clean Air Act and the National Emission Standard for Hazardous Air Pollutants, contractors must follow certain requirements during renovation projects. These requirements include actions that must be taken before work commences, during renovations and to ensure proper waste disposal.

Asbestos was once added to floor tiles during the manufacturing process to strengthen and increase their durability. According to the Minnesota Department of Health, “Flooring, including sheet vinyl, vinyl or asphalt floor tiles and any associated paper-like backing, mastic, adhesive or glue, may contain asbestos.” Old asbestos flooring tiles can easily become friable over time and cause hazardous conditions when removed if not handled properly.

The guidelines are meant to protect workers involved in the renovations as well as the general public. Since asbestos can be easily aerosolized when disturbed it has raised concern with the EPA and area residents. The asbestos could have been breathed during the renovations which could increase one’s chance of developing lung cancer. Cancers associated with asbestos exposure sometimes take decades to appear.

EMSL Analytical, one of the nation’s largest asbestos testing laboratories, has decades of asbestos testing experience. “EMSL strongly encourages flooring contractors to have suspect flooring material tested before renovations commence,” reported Joe Frasca, Executive Vice President for EMSL Analytical. “It is a simple and cost effective way to ensure any suspect flooring materials are handled properly to protect workers and building occupants,” Frasca continued.

To learn more about asbestos testing or other testing needs please visit www.EMSL.com, email info@EMSL.com or call (800) 220-3675.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of consumer product, environmental, industrial hygiene, food and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

Contact Information

Joe Frasca

Senior Vice President, Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

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