Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in building materials from the 1950s until the 1980s due to its strength, durability, and fire resistance. It was used in products such as but not limited to, roofing materials, exterior weatherproofing materials(stucco, siding), windows, doors, insulation, ceiling tiles, acoustical materials ("popcorn" ceiling, plaster), gypsum and joint compound, vinyl flooring and adhesives, and cement. However, asbestos has been found to cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other respiratory diseases when it is broken down and inhaled as fibers. As a result, many countries have banned the use of asbestos and have strict regulations in place regarding its handling and removal.

The National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) are standards set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to reduce emissions of hazardous air pollutants. Asbestos is one of the hazardous air pollutants regulated by the EPA under the NESHAP. Asbestos fibers are released into the air when these products are disturbed, such as during demolition, renovation, or repair activities. The EPA’s NESHAP regulations require businesses to take steps to reduce asbestos emissions. These steps include identifying and controlling sources of asbestos emissions, using engineering controls to reduce emissions, and using work practices to minimize asbestos exposure. The NESHAP regulations also require businesses to provide training to employees who work with asbestos and to provide medical surveillance for employees who are exposed to asbestos. The EPA’s NESHAP regulations are designed to protect public health and the environment by reducing exposure to asbestos and other hazardous air pollutants.

In California, there are 35 local Air Districts that are responsible for regional air quality planning, monitoring, and stationary source and facility permitting. Air Districts require asbestos surveys to be completed by a Certified Asbestos Consultant prior to any demolitions or renovations activities, regardless of the age of the  property.  South Coast Air Quality Management District has jurisdiction over Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside Counties. 

Triton Environmental offers proficient and dependable services pertaining to asbestos inspections/surveys, design/specifications for asbestos abatement projects, oversight and monitoring of asbestos abatement, air sampling for exposure assessments and/or post-asbestos abatement clearances, and dust sampling to evaluate potential contamination.