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Connecticut Asbestos Regulations

As you begin to plan your renovation or demolition project, you’d probably prefer to think of the potential involved rather than the toxic substances that such an endeavor might uncover. But if you are planning one of these projects in Connecticut, you or others could be exposed to hazards like asbestos, so you’ll need to become familiar with the asbestos regulations in the Nutmeg State. Read on to learn more about Connecticut asbestos regulations and the regulatory agencies relevant to your project or workplace.

Why Is Asbestos Dangerous?

Asbestos is a fibrous, heat-resistant mineral that was used heavily in the construction and commercial products industries during the 20th century. However, it’s now a well-known fact that inhaling asbestos fibers can cause serious illnesses, such as mesothelioma (cancer of the chest and abdominal linings), lung cancer, and asbestosis (irreversible lung scarring similar to emphysema).

While many uses are now prohibited, various products and structures, such as popcorn ceilings, floor tiles, and pipe insulation still have asbestos-containing material (ACM) in them. Although intact, undisturbed asbestos is not considered dangerous, ACM can release hazardous asbestos fibers into the air during renovations, demolition, deterioration, or other activities. Therefore, federal, state, and local governments regulate the use and removal of asbestos quite strictly.

Federal and Connecticut Asbestos Laws

Since the health hazards posed by asbestos exposure are so severe, the states and federal government have enacted many laws and regulations to protect workers and the public. For example, in Connecticut, homeowners who suspect asbestos may be lurking in their house should have a licensed inspector obtain a sample for analysis before attempting any sort of removal or renovation project. If asbestos abatement is required and it involves more than three linear or three square feet of asbestos-containing material, it must be performed by a licensed contractor. And once the project is completed, the asbestos must be disposed of at an approved disposal site.

Additionally, in June of 2017, Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection announced that it would no longer handle the implementation of emission standards for asbestos. This means that the EPA’s National Emissions Standard for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) will apply to asbestos in Connecticut going forward.

The following chart provides key sections of Connecticut’s asbestos regulations, as well as relevant regulatory agencies.

Statutes

  • Connecticut Statutes, §19a-329 to 333 (regulatory authority, asbestos abatement provisions, notification, inspections, penalties, asbestos in schools)
  • Connecticut Statutes, §20-435 to 442 (contractor licensing, worker certificates, training programs, regulatory authority)
  • EPA, 40 CFR Part 61, Subpart M (national emission standards and renovation/demolition requirements for asbestos)
  • EPA, 40 CFR Part 763, Subpart E (asbestos in schools)
  • OSHA, 29 CFR 1926.1101 and CFR 1910.1001 (federal safety and health regulations regarding asbestos in construction and the workplace)

Asbestos Regulatory Agencies

Federal:


Connecticut:

Asbestos Removal Regulations

  • Persons providing asbestos services must be licensed according to Connecticut regulations (§20-400-1 to 9).
  • Asbestos abatement must be performed by a licensed contractor if it involves more than three linear feet or three square feet of asbestos-containing material (this includes single family residential units) (§19a-332a-1(e); §19a-332a-2).
  • Owners or contractors of any demolition or of a renovation involving certain quantities of asbestos must notify the Department of Public Health at least 10 days before work begins (§19a-332a-3).
  • General requirements for asbestos abatement projects (§19a-332a-5)
  • Specific requirements for asbestos removal, including wetting and equipment decontamination (§19a-332a-7)
  • Asbestos-containing material in schools (§19a-333-1 to 13)
  • Standards for asbestos disposal (§19a-332a-5(l))
  • Civil penalties for asbestos-related violations (§19a-332e-2)

Note: State regulations are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.

Connecticut Asbestos Regulations: Related Resources

Get Professional Legal Help With Your Connecticut Asbestos Claim

Unfortunately, you can be exposed to asbestos even if you don’t work in the construction industry. And an asbestos-related diagnosis can be devastating. Even if your exposure occurred decades ago, find out if you might be entitled to compensation from an employer or other responsible party under Connecticut’s asbestos regulations. Talk to a Connecticut injury law attorney today.

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