Asbestos containing materials (ACMs) have been used in the construction of buildings since the 1920s, and because of its versatility, asbestos can be found in insulation, surfacing materials, floor tile, roofing materials, exterior siding, ceiling tiles and other materials throughout homes, apartments and commercial buildings. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) Act requires the removal of ACMs prior to renovation or demolition of a structure, and California state law requires that any of the sampling, testing or removal of ACMs be conducted under the supervision of a Certified Asbestos Consultant (CAC).
Orswell & Kasman, Inc. conducts inspections of residential and commercial properties for ACMs and will obtain samples of suspected materials to determine if they contain asbestos. The samples are examined by an independent, certified laboratory and the results are reported to the client.
Since we are not involved with the abatement of ACMs, we do not have a conflict of interest in recommending abatement work, and often times we recommend that the ACMs be maintained in place. We give our clients information concerning the hazards associated with the identified ACMs, and provide assistance in finding a qualified asbestos contractor, if required.
The asbestos inspections and consulting services are conducted by a California Certified Asbestos Consultant, who has received extensive training in identifying and handling asbestos materials, and who has demonstrated proficiency and knowledge to the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (CAL/OSHA).
