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Florida Asbestos Regulating Agencies

What is Asbestos Regulating Agencies in Florida

Following the enactment of Florida's mesothelioma and asbestos laws, a number of regulating agencies were created to oversee the asbestos industry and ensure that companies adhere to safety regulations. These agencies are responsible for conducting inspections, issuing fines and penalties, and overseeing the removal and disposal of asbestos-containing materials.

Some of the more notable asbestos regulating agencies in Florida include the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Florida Asbestos Removal Contractors Association, and the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization. Each of these organizations has played a critical role in ensuring that Florida's asbestos laws are followed and that those exposed to asbestos fibers are protected from developing severe health problems.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection enforces Florida's mesothelioma and asbestos laws. This agency conducts inspections of asbestos-containing materials, issues fines and penalties for non-compliance, and oversees the removal and disposal of these materials.

The Florida Asbestos Removal Contractors Association is a trade organization that represents the interests of asbestos removal contractors in the state. This organization provides training and education on asbestos safety regulations, advocates for stronger enforcement of these regulations, and works to ensure that its members are following best practices when it comes to removing and disposing of asbestos-containing materials.

The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing public awareness about asbestos. This organization provides information about mesothelioma and asbestos-related diseases, funds research into new treatments for these diseases, and supports mesothelioma patients and their families.

However, several federal agencies also have a role in regulating asbestos in Florida. The Environmental Protection Agency is responsible for setting and enforcing national standards for asbestos exposure, while the Occupational Safety and Health Administration oversees workplace safety standards. In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention conducts research on asbestos-related diseases and provides information about these diseases to the public.

When Was Asbestos Banned in Florida?

Asbestos was mostly banned in Florida by 1986. The use of asbestos in products was slowly phased out over the next few years, and by the early 1990s, asbestos was rarely used in new products. However, asbestos-containing products that were manufactured before the ban are still in use today, and exposure to asbestos fibers can still occur. Notwithstanding, asbestos is still used in a few products and industries in Florida, though its use is heavily regulated.

Florida Asbestos Regulations

In Florida, two main statutes provide for asbestos regulations in the state. The first is the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA), enacted in 1986. This act requires all schools to have an asbestos management plan to deal with any potential asbestos hazards on their premises. The second statute is the Asbestos Hazard Protection Act (AHPA), enacted in 1992. This act requires all public and private buildings to be inspected for asbestos hazards and an asbestos removal plan in place if any asbestos is found.

Other Florida statutes pertaining to asbestos include the following:

  • The Asbestos Information Act (AIA) requires public and private employers to provide their employees with information about the health hazards posed by asbestos exposure and to take measures to protect them from exposure.
  • The Asbestos Licensing Act (ALA) requires businesses that remove or repair asbestos-containing materials to be licensed by the state.
  • The Asbestos Product Liability Act (APLA) creates a cause of action for persons who suffer a loss due to asbestos exposure
  • The Asbestos School Hazards Eradication Act (ASHEA) requires the Department of Education to develop and implement a plan to remove all asbestos hazards from public school buildings.
  • The Asbestos Transportation, Handling, and Disposal Act (ATHADA) prohibit the transportation, handling, or disposal of asbestos waste in a manner that poses a health or environmental hazard.

What is the Role of Asbestos Regulators in Florida?

Asbestos regulators in Florida play an essential role in ensuring that asbestos-containing materials are appropriately managed and disposed of. These regulators also work to educate the public about the risks associated with asbestos exposure and to ensure the compliance of companies with state and federal regulations regarding the use of asbestos.

Asbestos Regulatory Organizations in Florida

The following organizations are responsible for regulating asbestos in Florida:

  • The Florida Department of Health (DOH) is responsible for protecting the public's health by ensuring that only safe asbestos products are used. They do this by regulating the manufacture, sale, and use of asbestos products in the state.
  • The Florida Division of Environmental Protection (DEP) is responsible for protecting the state's environment from the harmful effects of asbestos. They do this by regulating the disposal of asbestos waste and by monitoring asbestos exposure levels in the environment.
  • The Florida Bureau of Air Pollution Control (BAPC) is responsible for regulating emissions of asbestos into the air. This is done by setting limits on the amount of asbestos that can be released into the air by factories and other sources.

At county level, the Miami-Dade County Asbestos Safety Program is responsible for enforcing the county's asbestos laws and regulations. This program conducts inspections of commercial and residential buildings, issues citations for violations, and provides training and education on asbestos safety.

The Hillsborough County Asbestos Oversight Program is another county-level program that is responsible for enforcing the county's asbestos laws. This program conducts inspections of commercial and residential buildings, issues fines and penalties for violators, and provides training and education on asbestos safety.

These are just a few of the many agencies and organizations that are involved in regulating asbestos in Florida. By working together, these agencies are able to ensure that Florida's asbestos laws are followed and that those who are exposed to asbestos fibers are protected from

What is Florida OSHA's Role with Asbestos?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is responsible for ensuring safe working conditions for US residents. OSHA's role with asbestos in Florida is to help protect workers from exposure to asbestos fibers, which can cause serious and fatal diseases, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Asbestos exposure can occur during many types of work, including construction, renovation, repair, and maintenance activities. OSHA has set standards to protect workers from asbestos exposure in the workplace. These standards require employers to take steps to prevent worker exposure to asbestos fibers, such as using personal protective equipment and wetting down work areas.

In addition to its role in setting and enforcing standards, OSHA also provides information and training resources to help workers and employers reduce the risk of asbestos exposure. OSHA also works with other state asbestos regulatory agencies, such as the Florida Department of Health, to provide information and resources on asbestos safety and health.

Florida OSHA Asbestos Regulations

Some of the key provisions of the OSHA asbestos regulations include:

  • Requiring employers to provide workers with personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimize exposure to asbestos fibers.
  • Prohibiting the use of power tools and other equipment that could generate asbestos fibers
  • Establishing limits on the amount of asbestos fibers that workers can be exposed to over the course of a workday.
  • Requiring employers to keep records of workers' asbestos exposure levels.

The penalties for violating the OSHA asbestos regulations can be significant. Those who violate the regulations may be subject to fines and other penalties. In some cases, they may also be required to make changes to their workplace to reduce the risk of asbestos exposure for workers.

When and How to Contact OSHA in Florida

Employees in the state of Florida who suspect that their workplace is unsafe or violates health and safety standards may file a complaint with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). OSHA is a federal agency responsible for enforcing safety and health laws in the workplace.

To file a complaint with OSHA, the complainant must first contact their nearest OSHA office. They will be asked to provide their name, contact information, and a description of the problem. The OSHA will then investigate the complaint and take appropriate action if warranted.

Employees who wish to file a complaint with OSHA may do so anonymously if they fear reprisal from their employer. However, anonymous complaints may take longer to investigate and may be less likely to result in enforcement action.

What is the EPA's Role with Asbestos in Florida?

The EPA's role with asbestos in Florida is to ensure that asbestos-containing materials are properly managed and disposed of. The EPA also regulates the use of asbestos in new construction projects. In addition, the EPA works with other state asbestos regulatory agencies to coordinate efforts and share information. The EPA's governing authority over asbestos is derived from the federal Clean Air Act and the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act.

Under these laws, the EPA has promulgated regulations that identify how asbestos should be managed to protect public health and the environment. The EPA also provides guidance to state and local governments on how to develop and implement their own asbestos programs. In general, the EPA's role with asbestos is to provide regulatory oversight and guidance, while state and local governments are responsible for the day-to-day management of asbestos-containing materials.

What is the Difference Between OSHA and EPA in Florida?

There are a few key differences between OSHA and EPA in Florida. For starters, OSHA is responsible for regulating workplaces, while EPA is responsible for protecting the environment. Additionally, OSHA focuses on preventing workplace accidents and injuries, while EPA focuses on reducing the environmental pollution. Finally, OSHA is a federal agency, while EPA is a state agency.

Other disparities between both agencies include:

  • EPA establishes environmental regulations that companies must follow, while OSHA focuses on job site safety and health hazards.
  • EPA covers a broader range of environmental issues, including air and water pollution, while OSHA is limited to workplace safety and health.
  • EPA regulations are typically more stringent than OSHA regulations.
  • EPA fines are generally higher than OSHA fines.

While both agencies play an important role in protecting workers and the environment, they each have their own unique focus and area of expertise.

What is the NIOSH's Role with Asbestos in Florida?

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is tasked with ensuring the prevention of work-related injuries and illnesses. NIOSH also develops and maintains exposure limits for hazardous materials, including asbestos.

In Florida, NIOSH plays an important role in protecting workers from asbestos exposure. NIOSH has set strict regulations for workers who are exposed to asbestos. These regulations require employers to provide workers with training and personal protective equipment. Employers must also monitor workers' exposure to asbestos and take steps to control the level of exposure.

Florida NIOSH Asbestos Regulations

NIOSH's role in protecting workers from asbestos exposure is critical. By following NIOSH's regulations, employers can help ensure that workers are safe from this dangerous substance. NOISH's regulations include:

  • Providing workers with training and personal protective equipment
  • Monitoring workers' exposure to asbestos
  • Taking steps to control the level of exposure

Who is Responsible for Asbestos Exposure in Florida?

In Florida, there are a number of different entities that may be held responsible for exposing individuals to asbestos. These include companies that manufacture asbestos-containing products, companies that use asbestos in their products, and even the state government.

Companies That Manufacture Asbestos-Containing Products

There are several of companies that manufacture products that contain asbestos. These companies are required to take steps to ensure that their products do not pose a health hazard to those who use them.

However, in some cases, these companies fail to take the necessary precautions. As a result, their products may contain asbestos fibers that can be released into the air and inhaled by people who use them.

The State Government

The state government may also be held responsible for exposing individuals to asbestos. In some cases, the state government may own buildings that contain asbestos.

In other cases, the state government may regulate the use of asbestos in products. However, in some cases, the state government may fail to properly regulate the use of asbestos. As a result, people may be exposed to asbestos fibers through the use of products that contain the material.

How to Dispose of Asbestos Containing Material in Florida

There are special procedures that must be followed in order to dispose of asbestos-containing material (ACM) in the state of Florida. ACM is any material that contains more than 1% asbestos by weight.

The first step is to identify whether the material contains asbestos. If you are unsure, it is always best to err on the side of caution and assume that it does. Once confirmed that the material does contain asbestos, the individual must take proper measures to ensure that the asbestos is disposed of in a safe and legal manner.

There are three ways to dispose of ACM in Florida:

  1. Take the material to a waste facility that is permitted to accept asbestos
  2. Hire a licensed asbestos abatement contractor to remove and dispose of the material
  3. Handle the disposal yourself, but only if properly trained and are using the proper safety equipment

If an individual disposes of ACM themselves, they must follow all safety protocols. This includes wearing the proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as an N-95 respirator, gloves, and coveralls. The material must also be wetted down with water to prevent asbestos fibers from becoming airborne.

Once the material is properly prepared, it can then be placed in a heavy-duty garbage bag and sealed. The bag should then be labeled with "Asbestos Waste" and taken to a landfill that is permitted to accept asbestos.

There are fines and penalties for illegally disposing of asbestos-containing material. Further questions about the proper disposal of ACM may be directed to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection at (800) 468-5800.