Asbestos Inspections, Surveys & ACP5

New York City has very strict laws regarding asbestos! Comprehensive building asbestos surveys are required before construction, renovation, demolition etc. As early as possible before an alteration, renovation, modification, demolition, or plumbing work takes place, or changes in such work occur, the building owner shall be responsible for having an asbestos survey performed by a DEP-certified asbestos investigator to determine the absence or presence of asbestos-containing material which may be disturbed during the course of the work. The owner of the building or authorized agent shall comply with the notification requirements of section 1-25 regarding asbestos-containing material.

If, after a survey performed by a DEP certified Asbestos Investigator, it is determined that the building (or portion thereof) affected by the work is free of asbestos-containing material or the amount of ACM to be abated constitutes a minor project, said asbestos investigator shall complete, sign, and affix his or her seal to the asbestos assessment report (ACP-5 Form) which shall be submitted  to DEP.

Different testing methods are now at your disposal along with qualified professionals and certified laboratories to ascertain if products contain asbestos. New York State and New York City have both licensed FIVE STAR ENVIRONMENTAL for such undertakings.

Sampling

Only persons certified by the Department as asbestos investigators or by the New York State Department of Labor (NYS DOL) as asbestos inspectors may select and collect bulk samples for analysis.

The investigator may assume that some or all of the areas investigated contain ACM, and for each area that is not assumed to contain ACM, collect and submit bulk samples for analysis. Collection and submittal of samples must be in compliance with Title 15, Chapter 1 of the Rules of the City of New York and EPA publications. Bulk sample analysis (PLM, TEM) must be performed by laboratories within the Environmental Laboratory Approval Program (ELAP) administered by the New York State Department of Health. 

Hiring an Asbestos Inspector/investigator

Depending on the local laws, accreditation for asbestos professionals could vary. In New York we have the New York State Department of Labor regulations relating to the hazards to public safety and health during the removal, encapsulation, enclosure, repair, or the disturbance of friable and non-friable asbestos, or any handling of asbestos material that may result in the release of asbestos fiber, and the New York City D.E.P Asbestos control program regulations that apply to all asbestos abatement activities occurring within the City of New York. This includes owners of buildings where asbestos abatement activity occurs and contractors engaged in asbestos abatement activities

When asbestos is identified, an evaluation report would be written which will include the location, contamination levels and suggestions for corrective actions. Based on what the investigators find, they could recommend the property owner to remove or seal asbestos (encapsulate). When hiring a professional for inspection, it is important that the person is qualified, experienced and can perform the task according to local and federal regulations.

Contact us to schedule a free estimate:
718-971-9191

WHAT IS AN ACP5 FORM?

ACP5 Forms are required by the city of New York for any renovation, demolition etc. Basically, any time a material which is suspected of having asbestos is to be disturbed, an asbestos investigation has to be carried out. After this inspection is performed, the asbestos investigator files an ACP5 Form with the city of New York to certify that the material being worked on does not contain asbestos, the asbestos to be disturbed is less then 10 square feet or 25 linear feet or if the asbestos will not be disturbed. Suspect material is anything and everything besides wood, metal and fiberglass. It can be roofing materials, floor tiles, brick mortar, drywall, joint compound and hundreds more. If you have any suspicions about the material being disturbed, you should first contact a certified New York City Investigator. If there is a risk of the asbestos being disturbed then Asbestos Abatement is required before work begins.

CONTACT US TODAY TO SCHEDULE ASBESTOS TESTING!

Q&A

What is asbestos, and why is it a concern in New York?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that was widely used in building materials due to its heat resistance and durability. In New York, it is a significant concern because when asbestos-containing materials (ACM) degrade or are disturbed during renovation or demolition, tiny asbestos fibers can become airborne. Inhalation of these fibers can lead to serious health issues, including lung cancer and mesothelioma, making its proper management crucial for the safety of residents, workers, and the environment.

Who is responsible for conducting asbestos inspections in New York?

The responsibility for overseeing asbestos inspections in New York falls under the jurisdiction of the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL). NYSDOL is responsible for establishing and enforcing regulations, standards, and licensing requirements for professionals involved in asbestos inspections and abatement. This regulatory authority ensures that asbestos-related activities are conducted safely and in compliance with state laws.

Are there specific regulations and laws governing asbestos inspections in New York?

In New York, there are indeed specific regulations and laws governing asbestos inspections. These regulations are primarily outlined in the New York State Industrial Code Rule 56 (NYCRR 56) and the Asbestos Control Program. NYCRR 56 sets forth detailed requirements for asbestos inspections, notifications, and abatement procedures, ensuring that inspections are conducted according to established safety standards and protocols.

How often should asbestos inspections be performed in buildings in New York?

The frequency of asbestos inspections in New York varies depending on the type of facility and its history of ACM. Public buildings and schools are subject to more stringent regulations and must undergo inspections every three years. Other buildings may have inspections less frequently, typically when there is reason to suspect the presence of ACM, such as during renovation or demolition projects. Regular inspections are crucial for identifying and addressing asbestos hazards promptly.

What are the potential health risks associated with asbestos exposure in buildings?

Asbestos exposure poses severe health risks, as inhaling asbestos fibers can lead to various respiratory diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. It is especially concerning because symptoms often do not manifest until years or even decades after exposure. This latency period underscores the importance of identifying and managing asbestos properly in buildings to protect the health of occupants and workers.

Do all buildings in New York need to undergo asbestos inspections, or are there exceptions?

Not all buildings in New York require asbestos inspections. Generally, those constructed before 1981 are more likely to contain ACM, but there are exceptions based on factors such as building type and use. For example, single-family homes are generally exempt from inspection requirements unless they are being converted for public use, such as daycare facilities.

What is the process for scheduling and conducting an asbestos inspection in New York?

To schedule an asbestos inspection in New York, property owners or managers should contact a licensed asbestos inspector or abatement contractor. The inspection process typically involves a thorough assessment of the building, sample collection, laboratory analysis, and the submission of a detailed report to the NYSDOL. Properly licensed professionals ensure that inspections are conducted accurately and in compliance with state regulations.

Are there any financial assistance programs available for property owners to cover the costs of asbestos inspections and abatement in New York?

In New York, financial assistance programs are available to help property owners and managers cover the costs of asbestos inspections and abatement in specific circumstances. For instance, the New York City Department of Environmental Protection's (DEP) Asbestos Regulatory Program may provide grants or loans to eligible individuals or entities facing significant financial burdens associated with asbestos compliance. These programs aim to facilitate asbestos management and protect public health.

What happens if asbestos is discovered during an inspection in New York? What are the next steps?

If asbestos is discovered during an inspection in New York, immediate action is necessary to address the hazard. Licensed asbestos abatement contractors must be engaged to manage or remove the asbestos-containing materials safely. Additionally, the NYSDOL must be notified, and stringent safety measures must be implemented to protect occupants and workers from further exposure to asbestos fibers. Prompt and proper handling is essential to mitigate health risks.

Can I hire a private asbestos inspection company in New York, or do I have to use a government-approved agency?

Property owners in New York have the option to hire private asbestos inspection companies, but it is crucial to ensure that these companies are properly licensed by the NYSDOL. Compliance with state regulations is paramount to maintaining safety during inspections and asbestos removal procedures. Hiring licensed professionals helps ensure that inspections are conducted accurately and asbestos hazards are managed effectively, reducing health risks for all parties involved.

Contact us to schedule a free estimate:
Call or text: 718-971-9191
Email: info@fivestarenv.com