Asbestos, known for its thermal and insulating properties, was once widely used in many industrial and construction materials. The carcinogenic nature of asbestos was not discovered until years later. Serious diseases, such as mesothelioma, asbestosis and lung cancers, began to develop in employees and the public decades after exposure. Mesothelioma, the most serious illness, is an incurable cancer that begins when asbestos fibers lodge in the membranes of vital organs. Exposure to asbestos is the primary cause for mesothelioma.

Once the dangers of exposure to asbestos became widely acknowledged, federal regulations were created in regards to handling, repairing, removing or disposing of asbestos containing materials. The following federal agencies are in charge of ensuring that homeowners, builders and construction companies follow asbestos safety regulations:

* EPA: Environmental Protection Agency.

* OSHA: Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

* Food and Drug Administration: establishes regulations and passes approval of mesothelioma treatment drugs and alternative treatments.

* U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA).

* CPSC: Consumer Product Safety Commission.

In addition to the federal asbestos abatement laws, local and state agencies also impose their own regulations. Such legal efforts were made to prevent harmful and fatal exposure to asbestos. Asbestos removal legislation may vary from state to state and yet most laws require that asbestos abatement be done by licensed professionals who are trained to remove asbestos. Inspection prior to beginning any demolition, renovation or construction is required before any work can legally begin.

There are three different possibilities if asbestos is discovered during initial inspections: leave it alone, repair it, or remove it.

If asbestos is not in friable (airborne) condition, then it is considered to be safe. It is highly recommended to leave asbestos materials that are still in good condition alone and undisturbed to decrease any chance of deadly exposure. On the other hand, if more than 1% of asbestos is found and in friable condition, removal or repair is required.

Asbestos is also likely to be disturbed during construction, demolition, repair or renovation. Under such circumstances, it is recommended to check first with local health, environmental, and government agencies for guidelines. Then a choice of whether to repair or remove will need to be made. If repairing, asbestos can either be sealed or covered in such a way that the toxic mineral is safely concealed. If removing, most laws require hiring asbestos professionals trained in inspecting, removing, and disposing of asbestos containing materials.

Some states allow for roofing, flooring or plumbing contractors who have special training in asbestos abatement to perform the work. Check with your local regulating facilities and guidelines before removing any asbestos as hefty fines and criminal charges may apply for failure to do so. Protecting your health and preventing mesothelioma is worth the extra time and money.

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