American cities are using funds through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) to tear down deteriorating buildings so they can build new housing and other structures. In many cases, the work is being performed without following the proper regulations. One problem in particular is the standards for removing the asbestos used in these buildings.

Asbestos is linked to deadly diseases such as lung cancer and mesothelioma, a fatal cancer of the protective linings covering many of the body’s organs. The dangers of asbestos make demolition and renovation projects particularly problematic to health and safety officials, because the work disturbs the asbestos, releasing it into the air—and into the lungs of workers and others nearby.

People who are involved in dealing with building materials that contain asbestos must be trained according to U.S. EPA requirements found in the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA). The Business and Professions Code in California requires the same type of training as part of the process for becoming a certified asbestos consultant. Five separate "disciplines"; are defined in connection with this asbestos training: Worker, contractor/supervisor, building inspector, management planner, and project designer. To stay current in any of these disciplines, an individual must follow the initial course with annual refresher training.

Employers have a legal responsibility to protect their workers and the general public from the hazards associated with the improper removal and/or disturbance of asbestos. For more information or to obtain applications, contact the Asbestos Consultant and Trainer Approval Unit at (916) 574-2993 or by email at ACTU@dir.ca.gov