Asbestos-Containing Materials Management

What we do to manage asbestos

The Industrial Hygiene staff in EHS, the Hazardous Materials Coordinator in the Facilities Interior Shop, and Facilities Project Management are responsible for identifying potential asbestos hazards and ensuring that UI employees, students and the general public are not exposed to airborne asbestos fibers. When an asbestos-containing building material is or will be disturbed, such as during maintenance, remodel or accidental damage, the area will be isolated and restricted, and EHS (or consultants) will take air samples to test for airborne fibers. The area will not be reopened for occupancy until proper procedures indicate the area is “clear.”

EHS also performs periodic air monitoring in some buildings which contain certain friable asbestos-containing building materials. We conduct this routine testing approximately annually to check for airborne asbestos fibers. Our goal is to not only meet, but far exceed, federal regulations to promote the cleanest air standards possible at the University of Idaho in regards to asbestos.

How you can help

Be aware of your surroundings. If you notice damaged floor tiles, ceiling panels, thermal insulation on pipes, fire-proofing on building structural members, or other materials that may potentially contain asbestos, let us know. We will determine if there is a cause for concern about the presence of asbestos. For additional information on materials that may contain asbestos, see the reference links on this page.

If abatement work is taking place, DO NOT enter the restricted work area. Unauthorized entry can expose you and others to asbestos fibers that can be tracked out of the containment zone. Certified abatement workers wear respirators and disposable coveralls to protect themselves while working. To prevent asbestos fibers from escaping the containment, HEPA-filtered exhaust systems are used and asbestos workers decontaminate themselves prior to exiting the enclosure.

Related Training

• Asbestos Awareness

For more information

Andrew Eberle
Industrial Hygienist
208-885-5977
aeberle@uidaho.edu

Vacant
Industrial Hygiene Specialist
208-885-5845
safety@uidaho.edu