To become an asbestos contractor in the US, one must be certified as a contractor and complete a special application, with additional requirements varying by state. Small projects may not require a licensed contractor, but most large projects do. Renewals and refresher courses are required annually. In Europe, the UK requires proper training but no special license.
To become an asbestos contractor in the United States, you must first be certified as a contractor. Once you have the proper insurance and certification to be considered a contractor, you must complete a special application to become an asbestos contractor. The application usually requires proof of a worker’s compensation insurance policy. Depending on the state, there may be additional requirements to become an asbestos contractor. Most US states require asbestos contractors to be licensed in some way.
The additional requirements for becoming an accredited asbestos contractor are varied. Some states require applicants to take government-sponsored courses designed to teach safe asbestos removal methods. Michigan, for example, requires that all workers be trained in asbestos removal on a course approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the state of Michigan. Some states require certification from a state agency. Other states only require applicants to fill out forms that attest to how to safely remove asbestos.
If a company wants to obtain asbestos certification, the requirements are similar. The company must demonstrate that all workers are or will be certified in accordance with specific state laws. Many states, including Michigan and Louisiana, for example, require that a person be appointed as a supervisor of asbestos removal projects. This person typically needs to be named on the application.
Small asbestos removal projects, such as removing less than 10 feet of asbestos material from pipelines, may not require a licensed asbestos removal contractor. The vast majority of large projects, however, require a certified asbestos professional. Removing asbestos ceilings and shingles in particular can be extremely dangerous. In many states, it’s illegal to attempt these projects unless you’re a certified asbestos contractor.
In the United States, there is usually a fee associated with filing an application to become an asbestos contractor. Requests usually need to be renewed regularly, usually annually. Asbestos abatement professionals may need to take refresher courses each year when renewing their applications. Courses are designed to minimize the risk of asbestos exposure and emphasize safety, both for the contractor and the general public.
Requirements in Europe vary. In the UK, for example, no special license is required to become an asbestos contractor. Asbestos contractors are simply required to get proper training in safe asbestos removal. Proper training involves learning about the dangers of asbestos exposure, including the risk of asbestosis and mesothelioma, and taking steps to avoid asbestos exposure.
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