This section discusses asbestos treatment as it relates to the handling and removal of asbestos in your home. It also discusses asbestos treatment in the workplace and the government regulations in place to protect workers and their families from asbestos exposure.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may want to visit our main Mesothelioma Information section to learn more about mesothelioma types, mesothelioma symptoms, and mesothelioma treatments.

Asbestos Treatment in the Home

For asbestos materials in the home, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends leaving materials in good condition alone. They suggest inspecting material regularly for damage without hitting, rubbing, or handling it. If the material is damaged or if you want to make repairs in your home that may damage it, the EPA recommends hiring an experienced asbestos-treatment professional. Experienced asbestos treatment professionals can take samples for analysis and can tell you whether you need to repair or remove the materials. The EPA recommends that any repairs or removal of asbestos materials should be done only by a trained asbestos treatment professional.

Asbestos Treatment at Work

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has enforced specific asbestos exposure regulations for the work environment since 1972. Certain general OSHA standards for safety in the workplace also apply to asbestos treatment in the workplace. Employers are required to provide a workplace free of known hazards that may cause physical harm.

Some of the specific asbestos regulations enforced by OSHA include:

• Isolating the source of asbestos
• Using ventilation systems
• Limiting the amount of time workers are exposed
• Providing showers for workers
• Providing proper respiratory protection
• Providing protective clothing for workers

To learn about the history of asbestos, asbestos side effects, asbestos testing, and more, visit our main Asbestos Information section.