Removing an asbestos roof

Transite shingles are classified in the NESHAP regulations as a Category II non-friable asbestos containing material (ACM). The tear off of this material is considered OSHA class II work if the removal of the roof can be conducted so that transite shingles do not become friable. This is clearly outlined in OSHA regulation 29 CFR 1926.1101.

As a Class II work practice, it is not necessary that the tear off be performed by a licensed asbestos abatement contractor. However, all onsite workers must be certified by the Ohio Department of health as abatement workers with 32 hour training class, medical monitoring and respiratory fit testing.

It should be noted, according to Ohio EPA document number 587 titled “Asbestos Disposal at C&DD and Solid Waste Landfills” dated November 2002; Single residential properties are exempt from NESHAP regulations.

The following requirements are protocol for OSHA Class II work

Roofing Materials shall be removed in an intact state. Wet methods shall be used to remove materials which are not intact.

Asbestos waste must be double bagged and labeled. The bags must be both lowered to the ground by hand, via a dust-tight chute, or hoist and immediately placed in a lined disposal container.

Roof level heating and cooling intake sources shall be isolated or shut down.

The appropriate level of respiratory protection shall be worn in accordance with the requirements of OSHA regulation

29 CFR 1926.1101(h)

Protective clothing shall be worn as outlined in 29 CFR 1926.1101(i). Workers shall wear disposable, full body coveralls, gloves and disposable footwear in the work area.

All asbestos waste bags shall be loaded into an appropriate handling container at the end of each work shift. Warning signs shall be affixed to the disposal container.