Asbestos was widely used in commercial buildings throughout the 20th century due to its fire resistance and durability. However, when asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) become damaged or disturbed, they release microscopic fibers that pose serious health risks, including lung disease and cancer. Its important to note that regulations do not have a “stop testing date”. If you own or manage a commercial property, it’s crucial to determine whether asbestos is present before any renovation or demolition work begins. Here’s how to identify potential asbestos risks and the steps you should take to ensure a safe environment.

1. Understanding Where Asbestos May Be Present

Asbestos can be found in buildings of any age, including new construction. However, it was particularly prevalent in structures built before the 1980s. Common locations include: 

• Insulation (pipes, boilers, and ductwork)
• Flooring (vinyl tiles and adhesives)
• Ceiling tiles
• Roofing materials
• Textured paints and coatings
• Cement products (pipes and panels)

Asbestos is a risk in buildings of any age, however, if your building was built before the 1980s, you have a higher risk of your building containing asbestos.

2. Signs That Asbestos May Be a Problem

Asbestos doesn’t pose a health risk unless it is disturbed and becomes airborne. However, here are some indicators that your commercial property may require a thorough asbestos survey:

Aging or Damaged Materials

• Crumbling drywall or ceiling tiles
• Peeling paint or disintegrating insulation
• Deteriorating vinyl flooring
• Water-damaged building materials

Renovations or Construction Work

Any remodeling, drilling, sanding, or demolition can disturb asbestos-containing materials and release fibers into the air. Under EPA’s NESHAP regulation (40 CFR Part 61, Subpart M), a thorough asbestos survey is required before any demolition or renovation to identify regulated asbestos-containing materials (RACM). Failure to comply can result in fines and work stoppages.

Increased Employee Complaints

If workers experience persistent coughing, shortness of breath, or respiratory issues, it could indicate asbestos exposure, especially if these symptoms appear after construction or maintenance work. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1001 and 1926.1101 require employers to keep airborne asbestos levels below the PEL (Permissible Exposure Limit) of 0.1 fibers per cubic centimeter (f/ cc) over an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA). If asbestos is present, appropriate engineering controls and respiratory protection must be implemented.

3. How to Confirm Asbestos in Your Commercial Building

Because asbestos fibers are microscopic, the only way to confirm their presence is through a comprehensive asbestos survey conducted by qualified professionals. Luce Air Quality Environmental Health & Safety specializes in asbestos survey services, including:

• Bulk Material Sampling & Testing – Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) or Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) analysis is used to confirm asbestos presence in building materials.
• Air Sampling & Testing – Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM) or TEM analysis determines airborne fiber levels and exposure risk.
• Regulatory Compliance Assistance – Ensuring your building meets OSHA, EPA NESHAP, and state-specific safety standards.

4. What to Do If Asbestos Is Found

If asbestos is confirmed in your building, don’t panic. Professional asbestos removal and management ensures safety and regulatory compliance. Options include:

• Encapsulation – Sealing asbestos materials to prevent fiber release
• Enclosure – Installing barriers around ACMs to prevent exposure
• Abatement & Removal – Safe removal by certified asbestos abatement professionals following all regulatory guidelines

Take Action Today

Ignoring asbestos risks in your commercial building can lead to serious health hazards, regulatory penalties, and legal liabilities. If you suspect asbestos is present, the best course of action is to schedule a professional asbestos survey with a qualified team like LAQ Environmental Health & Safety. Ensuring a safe environment protects your employees, tenants, and businesses from potential harm. For more information or to schedule an asbestos survey, reach out to LAQ Environmental Health & Safety today!