Asbestos

​​​​What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a group of natural minerals that has been used in a variety of building materials including pipe insulation, ceiling and floor tile, shingles and cement products. When asbestos is disturbed, it can release microscopic fibers into the air. Breathing these fibers can increase the risk of lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other serious health problems.

Asbestos in the Home

Undisturbed asbestos material can be safely maintained and poses little risk to human health. But when asbestos-containing materials crumble, they can release asbestos fibers into the air. This can happen when buildings are renovated or demolished, and it can even happen when materials deteriorate through aging. 

Asbestos removal and disposal from single-family homes or apartments of four or less units is not regulated under Kentucky law. Nevertheless, it is advisable to seek help from a certified asbestos abatement contractor when removing asbestos material that may crumble. Certified professionals are trained to safely remove asbestos materials to minimize the release of asbestos fibers into the air you breathe.

• A list of Kentucky- accredited asbestos abatement professionals can be found at the EEC's eSearch Manage a License page​​. Make sure to filter the license type to the accreditation type desired and the license status to active before searching.​
  
• A list of Kentucky-certified asbestos abatement contractors can be found at the EEC's eSearch Active Companies page​.

Asbestos Regulations

​​​Asbestos is regulated under a variety of different programs in Kentucky.

"NESHAP" regulations are adopted by reference from federal National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants:

• 401 KAR 58:025 provides standards for sources that use commercial asbestos, demolition and renovation projects, and waste disposal.
• 401 KAR 58:040 requires entities that perform asbestos abatement in Kentucky to be fully qualified through a certification program.

"AHERA" regulations are adopted by reference from federal Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act regulations:

• 401 KAR 58:005 requires accreditation of individuals performing work in public, commercial or school buildings.
• 401 KAR 58:010 requires that schools prepare and submit a management plan that shows the location and condition of all asbestos in their buildings and provides a strategy for controlling the asbestos.