New Jersey Asbestos Regulations
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed December 06, 2018
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What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a durable, fibrous, natural product that was historically added to numerous consumer and construction products as an insulator. It has been estimated that 3,000 different types of commercial products contain asbestos, including brakes and clutches in vehicles. Starting in 1973, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began banning products containing asbestos as the health risks associated with exposure were discovered. In the late 1970’s, the Consumer Product Safety Commission regulated the use of asbestos in construction products. While new construction products today don’t contain asbestos, persons who work in the construction industry still face asbestos exposure due to repairing and handling building containing the unsafe material. The state of New Jersey has asbestos regulations in place, along with the federal government.
Health Risks Associated with Asbestos Exposure
There are numerous health risks linked to asbestos exposure, most notably malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos, affecting the lining covering most of the body's internal organs such as the abdominal lining, lung lining, or heart lining. Mesothelioma is extremely serious and there are currently no known cures once the disease presents itself in the human body.
New Jersey Asbestos Regulations Overview
The following chart provides some basic information about New Jersey’s asbestos regulations including which agencies regulate asbestos, common regulations, and more.
State Statute |
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Asbestos Regulatory Agencies |
Federal:
New Jersey State: |
Asbestos Removal |
If you have asbestos in your home or business and hire a contractor to remove it, the contractor must be license by the State of New Jersey. All contractors who abate asbestos-containing materials, to have a NJ Department of Labor and Workplace Development (DOLWD) license. For a list of qualified contractors, see here. |
Note: State laws 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.
New Jersey Codes and Court of Appeals Opinions
Additional Resources
If you have additional questions about New Jersey asbestos laws or other toxic chemicals, click on the following links below to learn more:
- Time Limits for Filing Product Liability Cases: State-by-State
- Legal Responsibility for Toxic Exposure
- How to Choose an Asbestos or Mesothelioma Lawyer
Learn More About New Jersey's Asbestos Regulations: Call an Attorney
Whether it's due to asbestos exposure or some other toxic chemical, if you or someone you love is suffering from related medical complications, you may have recourse. It's important to speak with an experienced New Jersey injury attorney right away to learn who may be liable and if you can bring a lawsuit for your injuries. Learn more by speaking with a New Jersey injury law attorney today.
Next Steps: Search for a Local Attorney
Contact a qualified attorney.