Although the asbestos abatement program became part of the Maintenance Department in 1992, the asbestos laboratory remains a part of EHS. The functions of this laboratory are threefold. First, EHS personnel routinely sample building materials to determine if the material contains asbestos. This is done by request, prior to any renovation and to augment building information. Secondly, EHS personnel also collect air samples to determine if fiber levels exceed the allowable air limits. This is either done in conjunction with an abatement project or to document compliance with established EPA ambient limits. Both air and bulk analysis is done in house by microscopy. An additional function of this laboratory is to maintain a database of all bulk samples. This information is used to prepare reports and to provide accurate details to maintenance personnel. For information concerning air sampling or database access contact EHS.

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