Waste » Business » Construction/Demolition » Asbestos
Asbestos is a hazardous air pollutant which has been regulated since the 1970s to protect public health from exposure. Activities such as demolition and renovation of commercial or residential buildings, homes and other structures must comply with asbestos regulations. Improper handling or disposal of asbestos can harm you, your family, your neighbors, your employees, contractors and waste management staff.
See below under Regulations for asbestos regulatory compliance information. To learn more about management practices visit these websites;
If you are a homeowner, landlord, contractor, property manager, etc., involved directly or indirectly in altering a structure in any way, regardless of its age, your project is subject to asbestos regulations. The first step is to understand what category your project falls under (demolition or renovation) and then whether it is an owner-occupied, single family residence or not.
To learn more visit Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency Forms and Publications and the Kootenai County Solid Waste Asbestos Policy and Procedures (PDF) for further details.
For a list of approved abatement contractors, see the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries list of Asbestos Abatement Contractors Receiving Certification from L&I.
For training resources, see the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries list of approved Asbestos Abatement Course Sponsors.
It is very important to research a company's credentials prior to hiring them.
Washington and Spokane County
The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) maintains a list of Asbestos Abatement Contractors Receiving Certification. L&I also has a search tool for registered (i.e. bonded, insured) contractors.
In Spokane County, asbestos is regulated by The Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency (SRCAA). SRCAA also maintains a (mostly regional) list of asbestos service companies and the types of services they provide. Visit their website for information about asbestos management practices and regulatory compliance.
Idaho and Kootenai County
Idaho does not operate a state asbestos certification program; but current asbestos certification obtained from any other state asbestos program which meets EPA’s certification and licensing standards is acceptable for conducting asbestos activities in Idaho - see Washington L&I and Spokane Regional Clear Air Agency resource lists above. Additional information on asbestos can be found on Idaho's Department of Environmental Quality's website here.
In Kootenai County, all buildings to be demolished that are larger than the dimensions of 400 square feet must be certified asbestos free by a certified and/or licensed person or business before it can be disposed of at any Kootenai County Solid Waste collection area. The certification must indicate that the entire demolished building(s) and their contents to be disposed have been reviewed and declared asbestos free.
Verification of the status of asbestos-free must be provided to the Kootenai County Solid Waste Department on this form and incorporated by reference prior to disposal.
The Kootenai County Solid Waste Department must be assured that any demolition is asbestos-free as required by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) before it can be disposed of in the Fighting Creek Landfill. If asbestos is detected, the rules and regulations set within this policy must be followed before disposal is allowed.
The Mesothelioma Prognosis Network 
is an advocacy group dedicated to providing free information and resources to those affected by mesothelioma cancer. They work to spread the awareness of asbestos-related diseases. Mesothelioma is a deadly form of cancer caused from asbestos exposure. The Mesothelioma Prognosis Network works with individuals and their families to help them find local doctors, treatment centers and support groups. Visit their extensive online resource for prognosis support and information. Download a free Mesothelioma Guide Book. Find out if you can qualify for Financial Assistance. For live support call (855) 775-6781.
