State seeks input on draft rules to amend asbestos regulations
DEQ hosting public hearing on June 20 in Portland
The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality seeks public comment on proposed changes to administrative rules to limit exposure to asbestos-containing materials. This proposed rulemaking will strengthen the asbestos rules to better protect public health and the environment.
The proposed changes to existing asbestos regulations include the following:
• New survey requirement for remodeling at residential buildings with four or fewer dwelling units
• Similar packaging, labeling and disposal requirements for friable and nonfriable asbestos-containing material
• Laboratories that analyze samples for asbestos will need to comply with national protocols for sample analysis within two years of rule adoption
Asbestos fibers pose a danger to public health. Asbestos may cause or contribute to the cause of lung cancer and other illnesses such as mesothelioma and asbestosis. To educate contractors and the public on the proper management of asbestos-containing materials, DEQ works with local governments, fire departments, the Construction Contractors Board as well as state health and safety agencies to improve awareness of asbestos abatement requirements.
The public may attend the hearing in person at headquarters, remotely at another DEQ office or by phone. DEQ will accept public comments on this proposed rulemaking until 4 p.m. on June 22.
Public Hearing: Teleconference:
Wednesday, June 20 at 6:30 p.m. Call-in number: 888-278-0296
Oregon DEQ Participant ID: 8040259
700 NE Multnomah Street, Third Floor
Portland, OR 97232-4100
DEQ regional offices: You can participate in the hearing remotely at the following DEQ regional offices:
Salem: 4026 Fairview Industrial Drive, SE
Medford: 221 Stewart Ave., Suite 201
Coos Bay: 381 N. Second Street
Bend: 475 NE Bellevue Drive, Suite 110
Pendleton: 800 SE Emigrant, Suite 330
Additional Information available on the rulemaking webpage: View copies of public notices and instructions on how to submit comments on the rulemaking web page at: https://www.oregon.gov/deq/Regulations/rulemaking/Pages/rAsbestos2018.aspx
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Media Contact:
Jennifer Flynt, DEQ public information officer, 503-730-5924, flynt.jennifer@deq.state.or.us
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