Debunking Asbestos Myths in Hawaii

Asbestos is a subject of concern in Hawaii, as it is elsewhere. This page aims to debunk common myths about asbestos in Hawaii, provide information on relevant regulations, and guidelines from the Department of Health (DOH), insights from the World Health Organization (WHO), present key research data, outline the safe removal process, and delve into the history of asbestos to offer a comprehensive overview of the asbestos situation in the state.

Asbestos has been used for centuries, with ancient civilizations recognizing its fire-resistant properties. Widespread use began in the Industrial Revolution due to its affordability and versatility. Health risks associated with asbestos exposure became apparent in the 20th century. Many countries, including the U.S., banned asbestos use or implemented strict regulations in response to health concerns.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), global asbestos production had been declining steadily. In 2020, total world asbestos production was estimated at about 1.1 million metric tons, with most production taking place in Russia, China, Brazil, Kazakhstan, and India. Asbestos consumption had also been decreasing due to bans and regulations in many countries. In 2019, the leading consumers of asbestos were China, India, and Russia.

Asbestos Regulations in Hawaii

Hawaii has stringent regulations governing asbestos to protect public health and the environment. These regulations include:

Hawaii Administrative Rules, Title 11, Chapter 51:

This chapter outlines accreditation and training requirements for individuals and companies involved in asbestos activities.
It ensures that professionals handling asbestos have the necessary skills and knowledge to do so safely, minimizing risks to themselves and the public.

Hawaii Administrative Rules, Title 11, Chapter 52:

Chapter 52 addresses the management, removal, and disposal of asbestos-containing materials.
It provides detailed guidelines for the safe handling and removal of asbestos to prevent fiber release during renovation or demolition projects.

Hawaii Revised Statutes, Chapter 321:

Chapter 321 establishes legal requirements for asbestos abatement activities in the state.
It sets forth the legal framework for asbestos abatement projects, ensuring compliance with safety measures and environmental protection.

Understanding the regulations surrounding asbestos in residential buildings is crucial, especially for condominiums and apartments. Asbestos in Residential Buildings condominiums and apartment buildings are considered regulated facilities under the Federal and State of Hawaii’s Asbestos Rules (Title 11, Chapters 501 through 504, Hawaii Administrative Rule).

Regulations and Compliance

A regulated facility includes any institutional, commercial, public, industrial, or residential structure, excluding residences or residential cooperatives with four or fewer total dwellings. While it’s not illegal or a health hazard to occupy spaces with asbestos-containing materials in good condition, specific regulations govern renovation, demolition, and general disturbance activities in regulated facilities.

Key Points:

Most residential buildings contain asbestos products in ceilings, walls, flooring, and insulation.
Asbestos-containing materials are generally safe if well-maintained.
State and federal requirements protect public health during activities that may disturb asbestos-containing materials.

Facts You Need to Know

Q: Do you live in an Apartment or Condo?

A: If so, it’s important to consider the following:

A state-certified asbestos inspector must identify suspect asbestos-containing materials before any renovation or demolition activities.
A licensed and certified asbestos contractor is necessary for proper removal, containerization, and disposal of regulated asbestos-containing materials.
Owners/operators are required to file notification documents with the State Department of Health.

Department of Health (DOH) Guidelines

The Hawaii DOH provides comprehensive guidelines for asbestos management, including:

Asbestos Control Program: Oversees asbestos-related activities, ensuring compliance with state regulations.
Notification and Reporting: Outlines procedures for notifying the DOH about asbestos removal projects.
Asbestos Waste Management: Details requirements for the proper disposal of asbestos waste.
Public Education: Offers resources to educate the public about asbestos risks.

Insights from WHO

The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that asbestos-related diseases continue to be a global health concern. According to WHO:

Asbestos exposure remains a major cause of occupational cancer worldwide.
Over 230,000 people die each year due to asbestos-related diseases.
There is no safe level of exposure to asbestos.

Global Perspectives on Asbestos Bans and Regulations

According to the International Ban Asbestos Secretariat, 55 countries have banned asbestos. These countries include:

Australia: Banned asbestos in 2003
European Union: Banned asbestos in 2005
Greece: Banned asbestos in 2005

Countries that have banned asbestos

Algeria
Brunei
Bulgaria
Canada
Chile
Czech Republic
Gabon
Germany
Gibraltar
Seychelles

The United States and Mexico are the only member countries of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) that have not banned asbestos. The United States still imports chrysotile asbestos for use in certain industries. From 2019 to 2020, asbestos imports nearly doubled.

The EPA has also banned asbestos in certain products, including:

Spray-on asbestos-containing surfacing materials used for fireproofing and/or insulation
Certain types of pipe insulation
Block insulation for boilers and hot water tanks
Joint compounds and drywall tape

History of Asbestos

Asbestos has been used for centuries, with ancient civilizations recognizing its fire-resistant properties.
Widespread use began in the Industrial Revolution due to its affordability and versatility.
Health risks associated with asbestos exposure became apparent in the 20th century.
Many countries, including the U.S., banned asbestos use or implemented strict regulations in response to health concerns.

Asbestos remains a concern in Hawaii, with strict regulations and guidelines in place to manage risks. Insights from WHO emphasize the global significance of asbestos-related diseases. A safe removal process is essential, and understanding the history of asbestos underscores the importance of responsible management. Staying informed and seeking professional assistance is paramount to protect public health and the environment.

Hawaii’s History of Asbestos Regulation

Hawaii, like other states, has implemented regulations to address asbestos-related issues. The federal government began regulating asbestos in the 1970s, with the Clean Air Act and subsequent regulations. However, the complete ban on asbestos in the United States did not materialize.

Specific to Hawaii, regulations have been in place to manage asbestos in various settings, including construction and demolition activities. Understanding the historical context of asbestos regulation in Hawaii is crucial when dealing with legal questions related to asbestos exposure.

When Was Asbestos Banned in Hawaii?

As of the publication date of this article, there is no statewide ban on asbestos in Hawaii. However, federal regulations restrict the use of asbestos in certain products. The legal landscape surrounding asbestos continues to evolve, and residents should stay informed about any changes in regulations that may impact asbestos use in the state.

Asbestos Myths in Hawaii

Myth 1: Asbestos is not a problem in Hawaii.

Fact: While Hawaii’s tropical paradise may seem far removed from asbestos concerns, asbestos-containing materials are still present in many buildings and homes throughout the state. Asbestos was widely used in construction materials in the past, including roofing, insulation, and flooring. Buildings constructed before asbestos regulations were enacted are particularly at risk.

Myth 2: Asbestos exposure is only an issue for workers in certain industries.

Fact: Asbestos exposure in Hawaii can affect individuals in various settings, not just specific industries. Homes, schools, hospitals, and commercial properties may contain asbestos-containing materials, potentially exposing occupants and visitors to health risks.

Myth 3: Asbestos-related diseases are a thing of the past.

Fact: Asbestos-related diseases, such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis, continue to impact individuals in Hawaii. The latency period between asbestos exposure and the development of these diseases can be decades, making it important to address past and current exposure risks.

Myth 4: DIY asbestos removal is safe.

Fact: Attempting to remove asbestos-containing materials without proper training and equipment is dangerous and illegal in Hawaii. Disturbing asbestos materials without adequate precautions can release harmful fibers into the air, putting both the person attempting removal and others at risk. Always consult licensed asbestos professionals for safe removal and abatement.

Asbestos exposure in Hawaii

Asbestos exposure in Hawaii, as in other locations, can occur in various settings, including homes, workplaces, and public spaces. Here are some key points related to asbestos exposure in Hawaii:

Construction Materials. Asbestos was commonly used in construction materials before its health risks were widely known. Buildings constructed before the 1980s may contain asbestos in materials such as insulation, roofing, flooring, and ceiling tiles.
Shipbuilding and Military Bases. Hawaii has a history of shipbuilding and military activities. Asbestos was widely used in naval ships and military facilities for its fire-resistant properties. Workers in shipyards and military bases may have been exposed to asbestos during maintenance, repair, and construction activities.
Natural Occurrence. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral, and Hawaii has certain geological formations that may contain asbestos deposits.
Occupational Exposure. Workers in industries such as construction, shipbuilding, and asbestos mining may have faced occupational asbestos exposure. Occupations like insulation installation, demolition, and renovation work also carry risks of asbestos exposure.
Health Risks. Asbestos exposure is associated with serious health risks, including lung diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
Regulations and Remediation. Hawaii, like other states, has regulations in place for asbestos abatement and removal during construction or renovation projects. Some areas with naturally occurring asbestos may pose risks of exposure, especially during construction or other ground-disturbing activities. Health risks are higher for individuals who have experienced prolonged and repeated exposure to asbestos fibers. Proper procedures and precautions should be followed to minimize the risk of exposure during asbestos removal.

Individuals concerned about asbestos exposure in Hawaii should consult with relevant authorities, such as the Hawaii Department of Health, and consider asbestos testing and inspections, especially before any renovation or demolition activities in older buildings. It’s essential to follow safety guidelines to prevent asbestos-related health issues.

Asbestos: Safe Removal Process

Safe asbestos removal is a complex process that requires specialized training and equipment. Here are the key steps involved in the safe removal of asbestos-containing materials:

Assessment:
- A certified asbestos inspector assesses the property to identify the location and extent of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). This typically involves a thorough visual inspection and may include sampling and laboratory analysis.
Professional Consultation:
- Engage a licensed asbestos abatement contractor. They will provide a detailed plan for asbestos removal, ensuring compliance with all regulations and safety protocols.
Containment:
- Isolate the work area to prevent the spread of asbestos fibers. This often involves sealing off the area with plastic sheeting and using negative air pressure machines to ensure that no asbestos fibers escape into other parts of the building.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Workers wear specialized PPE, including disposable coveralls, respirators with HEPA filters, and gloves, to protect themselves from asbestos exposure.
Wet Removal:
- ACMs are wetted down with a water mist to minimize the release of asbestos fibers during removal. This prevents the fibers from becoming airborne.
Careful Removal:
- Trained professionals carefully remove the ACMs, taking care to minimize damage to the materials. They use hand tools and take precautions to avoid creating dust or debris.
Bagging and Sealing:
- All removed asbestos materials are carefully placed in sealed, leak-proof bags or containers. These are clearly labeled as containing asbestos.
Disposal:
- Asbestos waste is transported to a licensed disposal facility designed to handle hazardous materials. The disposal process is strictly regulated to prevent environmental contamination.
Cleaning and Decontamination:
- The work area is thoroughly cleaned and decontaminated using HEPA vacuuming and wet wiping methods to ensure no asbestos fibers remain.
Final Inspection:
- A post-abatement inspection is conducted to verify that the area is safe and free of asbestos contamination.

Asbestos Abatement: Approximate Cost for a Homeowner

The cost of asbestos removal can vary widely depending on several factors, including the location, the amount and type of asbestos-containing materials, and the complexity of the removal process. On average, homeowners in Hawaii can expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000 for a small-scale asbestos removal project, such as removing asbestos from a single room or a small section of a home.

For larger projects, such as full-house asbestos abatement, costs can range from $10,000 to $30,000 or more, depending on the scope of work and the level of contamination. It’s crucial to obtain quotes from licensed asbestos abatement contractors, as they can provide accurate estimates tailored to your specific situation.

While asbestos removal can be costly, it’s essential for protecting the health and safety of occupants and complying with state regulations. Attempting to remove asbestos yourself can lead to significant health risks and legal consequences, so it’s always recommended to hire professionals for safe and proper asbestos removal.

How to test for Asbestos: Popular Asbestos Test Kits

Popular kits to test for asbestos are available for homeowners and businesses to assess the presence of asbestos-containing materials in their environment. These kits typically include the necessary materials for collecting samples and sending them to a laboratory for analysis. Here are a few popular asbestos testing kits:

PRO-LAB Asbestos Test Kit:
- Description: This kit provides all the materials needed to collect samples, including safety gear and detailed instructions. Users send the samples to a certified laboratory for analysis.
Health Metric Asbestos Test Kit:
- Description: Health Metric offers a comprehensive asbestos testing kit with sample collection bags, gloves, and a pre-addressed envelope for mailing samples to their accredited laboratory.
Asbestos Test Kit by EMSL Analytical, Inc.:
- Description: EMSL Analytical, Inc. provides a comprehensive asbestos testing kit with sample collection instructions and prepaid shipping to their accredited laboratory for analysis.
IAQ Pro Asbestos Test Kit:
- Description: IAQ Pro offers an asbestos testing kit that includes sample collection materials and prepaid shipping to their accredited laboratory for analysis.
Home Air Check Asbestos Test Kit:
- Description: This kit is designed for testing asbestos in air samples. It includes a pump to collect air samples and prepaid shipping to a certified laboratory.

More Sources about Asbestos:

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):
- The EPA regularly publishes reports on asbestos, including importation and use in the United States.
- Website: EPA Asbestos Information
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA):
- OSHA provides information on asbestos regulations and usage in workplaces.
- Website: OSHA Asbestos Page
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
- The CDC might have data on asbestos-related diseases and exposure.
- Website: CDC Asbestos Page
International Agencies:
- Organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Ban Asbestos Secretariat (IBAS) might have global perspectives.
- Websites: WHO Asbestos | IBAS
Government Health Departments:
- Health departments in both the United States and Mexico can provide information on asbestos-related health issues and regulations.