Find Legal Topics > Asbestos Laws > Hawaii Asbestos Abatement Procedure

Hawaii Asbestos Abatement Procedure


Although residential homes are technically not covered by Hawaii asbestos laws, it is best to hire a certified contractor that deals with Hawaii asbestos abatement procedure to ensure that you do not risk spreading the contamination when attempting to repair or remove asbestos material.  Following proper abatement procedure is necessary to prevent the likelihood of fines or increased contamination due to inexperience working with dangerous materials.

Removing friable material

Friable material is asbestos that is exposed and can be broken with minimal force.  This material will release itself in the form of tiny particles that when inhaled, lodge in the lungs and pose a cancer threat for decades afterward.  

Friable material can be encapsulated, which is sealing it behind a protective lawyer of sealant.  As long as the seal is not tampered with, it will be able to prevent further particle leakage.  This is an option for renovation and general asbestos abatement.  For demolitions however, you must remove as asbestos containing materials, including non-friable materials.

Where is asbestos in buildings?

Almost all buildings in Hawaii have some form of asbestos.  In cooler states, this is usually in the form of insulation.  You may not find asbestos insulation as common in Hawaii, but you will find asbestos flooring, roofing and tiling.  All of these applications are considered non-friable as the layer of friable asbestos is safely locked in indurate applications or layers.  There is the risk of damaging these materials and releasing asbestos fibers and the inspector or contractor will be able to advise you on the best possible course of action when dealing with this form of asbestos.

Large scale worksites

Hawaii asbestos abatement procedure also has specific provisions on large structures undergoing abatement.  This includes have sanitary stations to wash off residue, signs that clearly mark that abatement is in progress, plastic sheeting to prevent fibers from spreading and the use of filters to trap loose particles that may be harmful.

Providing notification

The Hawaii Department of Health must receive notification of any action to demolish or renovate a structure.  This includes asbestos abatement.  The notification for, which is usually required 10 working days before the construction beings, will ask about the nature of the asbestos that will be removed, estimates at the amount to be abated and which licensed contractor will perform the asbestos abatement.  

How do I dispose of ACMs according to Hawaii asbestos abatement procedures?

You may only dispose of sealed asbestos waste in landfill sites designated by the Hawaii state government.  If you are transporting the waste on your own, you must notify the dump site at least 24 hours in advance so that the material can be inspected and received.  You must ensure the material is wet and sealed tightly in the container.  It must also be clearly labeled as asbestos waste and a potential danger if opened.  If you rely on a contractor, the waste disposal will be handled by them at no risk to you.

Related Topics