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Proper Asbestos Handling

May 07, 2018

 

By ACUA Safety Coordinator Janette Kessler and Guest Blogger Rachel Lynch, Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance

In honor of North American Occupational Safety and Health Week (NAOSH), we encourage residents to learn about proper handling of asbestos to ensure your safety along with the safety of our workers.

Asbestos

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos was commonly used in building materials from 1930 to 1980. The toxin can still be found in structures today, and its harmful dust can be released into the air when disturbed. Exposure to this dust can cause mesothelioma – a type of cancer that normally occurs in the lungs.

Because of its harmful components, asbestos should NEVER be disposed of in your regular trash.

Handling Asbestos

 

ACUA accepts asbestos waste under very strict guidelines for both homeowners and contractors/commercial haulers.

If you are unsure if your item contains asbestos, please contact a certified asbestos abatement specialist. You may also contact iATL International Asbestos Testing Laboratory in Mt. Laurel where your items can be tested. Visit www.iatl.com or call 877.428.4285.

Once contained, all asbestos waste must be placed in specific asbestos-grade plastic bags and sealed with duct tape (ACUA sells asbestos handling bags at our GEO administrative building). No loose asbestos will be accepted for disposal.

Depending on if you are a homeowner or contractor/commercial hauler, ACUA will accept asbestos during regular business hours or at specially scheduled times (see full guidelines at acua.com/asbestos).

Once at ACUA, the asbestos is stored in a specially designated bin and then placed in the landfill separate from the active working space. Any employee working near the substance must wear respirators and full protective clothing.

Staying Safe 

If you're not sure if an item is hazardous, do some research before handling and disposing of it. In addition to asbestos, there are many items found in households that should never be disposed of in your regular trash can. We encourage residents to always exercise caution and contact us with any questions. 

For more information on ACUA’s asbestos disposal guidelines, please click here.

For information on ACUA's household hazardous waste program, click here.

For more information about the dangers of asbestos and mesothelioma, please click here.