In Washington State, nonfriable asbestos-containing materials (ACM) can sometimes remain in place during demolition if they are not disturbed. However, strict regulations apply when handling, removing, and disposing of asbestos waste. Failure to comply with Washington State asbestos regulations can result in civil penalties of up to $24,273 per day per violation.
At Pacific Northwest Inspections Group, we help homeowners, contractors, and property managers navigate asbestos compliance, testing, and safe removal practices.
Definition:
Nonfriable asbestos-containing material is asbestos that, when dry, cannot be crumbled, pulverized, or reduced to powder by hand pressure.
Examples include:
Asbestos-cement roofing and siding
Vinyl asbestos floor tile
Adhesives and mastics
These materials are considered more stable than friable asbestos, but if disturbed with tools (cutting, grinding, sanding), they can become friable and must then be handled under stricter asbestos disposal requirements.
Leave in Place: Nonfriable ACM may remain during demolition if it will not be disturbed or damaged.
Disposal Requirements: Once removed, all nonfriable asbestos waste must be promptly placed in a labeled disposal container marked “nonfriable asbestos waste”.
Notification Requirements: If removal involves certain quantities, you must file an asbestos notification with your local clean air agency, such as the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA).
Nonfriable ACM: Place in sealed, labeled containers and transport to an approved landfill that accepts asbestos waste.
Friable ACM: Must be disposed of at an authorized asbestos disposal facility. The process requires an Asbestos Waste Material Shipment Record.
Homeowner Removal: Washington allows homeowners of single-family residences to remove certain asbestos materials themselves, but strict guidelines under Regulation III, Section 4.05(c) must be followed.
Professional Removal: For multi-family, rental, or commercial properties, certified asbestos abatement contractors are required.
Even though homeowners can legally remove some nonfriable asbestos, mistakes can easily turn nonfriable materials into friable, creating serious health risks and regulatory violations.
Hiring a licensed asbestos abatement company ensures:
Proper testing before removal.
Compliance with EPA, OSHA, and local clean air agency regulations.
Safe transportation and disposal of asbestos waste.
Protection from civil penalties and liability.
The local clean air agency has the authority to impose:
Civil penalties of up to $24,273 per day per violation.
Additional fines if non-compliance leads to cost savings.
Criminal sanctions for willful violations.
Friable asbestos can be easily crumbled or reduced to powder by hand pressure, releasing dangerous fibers into the air. Nonfriable asbestos, such as vinyl floor tile or asbestos-cement siding, is more stable but can become friable if cut, drilled, or sanded.
Yes. Under Washington State regulations, nonfriable asbestos can remain in place during demolition if it is not disturbed or damaged. However, once removed, it must be promptly placed into a sealed, labeled container marked “nonfriable asbestos waste.”
It depends on the amount being removed. Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) and other local agencies require asbestos notifications if removal exceeds certain quantities. Always check with your local agency before beginning work.
In some cases, yes. A homeowner of a single-family residence may remove limited amounts of asbestos, provided they follow Regulation III, Section 4.05(c) for nonfriable materials. However, hiring a licensed asbestos abatement contractor is strongly recommended for safety and compliance.
Failure to follow asbestos regulations can result in civil penalties of up to $24,273 per day per violation, additional fines for economic gain, and even criminal charges for willful violations.
Contact Pacific Northwest Inspections Group at 425-608-9553. Our certified inspectors provide asbestos testing, inspection, and abatement guidance to ensure your project stays safe and compliant with Washington State, EPA, and OSHA regulations.
If you suspect asbestos in your property, don’t risk non-compliance or health hazards.
📞 Call 425-608-9553 today for asbestos testing, inspection, and abatement services in Washington State.
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Our certified inspectors and abatement partners will ensure your project meets state and federal asbestos regulations.