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Guidance for Catastrophic Emergency Situations Involving Asbestos

This document addresses federal asbestos regulations, the types of asbestos issues that may arise during catastrophic events, and how EPA has addressed such issues. It includes information on:

  • exposure concerns for emergency responders and others in the immediate area
  • cleanup and disposal of debris that may be contaminated with asbestos
  • demolition and renovation of buildings during recovery efforts
  • transport and disposal of material that may contain asbestos

This document replaces the Guidelines for Catastrophic Emergency Situations Involving Asbestos which was issued in 1992. The 2009 document is different from the 1992 document in that it also includes information about:

  • events that have occurred since 1992
  • how EPA has responded to asbestos-related concerns
  • how EPA has worked with other government agencies on response and cleanup
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