In Washington State, nonfriable asbestos-containing material can be left in place during demolition if it remains undisturbed. However, it must be promptly transferred to a disposal container labeled "nonfriable asbestos waste". Non-friable material when removed with toold can become Friable material and then will need to be hadled differently.
Nonfriable Asbestos-Containing Material:
Definition:
Nonfriable asbestos-containing material is defined as asbestos-containing material that, when dry, cannot be crumbled, pulverized, or reduced to powder by hand pressure.
Examples:
This includes materials like asbestos-cement roofing, vinyl asbestos tile, and mastic.
Regulations:
Washington state regulations allow nonfriable asbestos-containing materials to be left in place during demolition if the material remains nonfriable during the demolition process.
Disposal:
Notification:
Depending on the quantity of asbestos involved, you may need to file an asbestos notification with the local clean air agency.
Proper Disposal:
Nonfriable asbestos-containing waste must be promptly transferred to a disposal container labeled "nonfriable asbestos waste".
For Friable Asbestos:
If you're removing friable asbestos, you'll need to dispose of it at an authorized asbestos disposal facility, following procedures outlined in the Asbestos Waste Material Shipment Record.
Key Points:
Homeowner Removal:
If you are the homeowner of a single-family residence and are removing friable asbestos, you may be able to do so yourself, following specific guidelines.
Professional Help:
For other types of asbestos removal, it's strongly recommended to hire a certified asbestos abatement contractor, especially for commercial buildings, apartments, and rental units.
Clean Air Agency:
Contact your local clean air agency (e.g., Puget Sound Clean Air Agency for the Puget Sound area) for guidance and specific requirements related to asbestos removal and disposal.
If you remove nonfriable asbestos-containing material yourself, you must follow Regulation III, Section 4.05 (c) Method of Removal for Nonfriable, Asbestos-Containing Material (PDF).
Professional Removal:
While homeowners can legally remove some non-friable asbestos themselves, Pacific Northwest Inspections Group suggests hiring a licensed asbestos abatement company is strongly recommended for proper removal and disposal.
The Agency can assess a monetary civil penalty up to $24,273.00 per day per violation. If an economic benefit is realized by non-compliance, the penalty can reflect this estimated cost which is often non negotiable. Criminal sanctions may occur for a knowing or willful violation.
Call us for testing and abtement services 425.608.9553.