Posted by Dana/LaFloors on November 26, 1999 at 08:44:26:
In Reply to: Vinyl Flooring Removal and Asbestos posted by Nigel Roberts on November 19, 1999 at 03:24:32:
I have faced this problem many times. The epa has new NASHAP regulations
which state , and I quote, "Water, amended water, or solvents may be
spread on to floor tiles in order to loosen them. After a period of
soaking the tiles may be removed using long-handled scrapers (ice
chippers), or gas-or electrically-powered mechanical chisels. In cases
where tile breakage is minimal, the floor tiles are not considered
RCAM". RCAM is Regulated Asbestos Containing Materials. Their regs
further state that VAT can be removed by any one as long as no dust is
created, and VAT can be disposed in any land fill that accepts
construction debris. You can also lay over the existing tile, thus
encapsulating it. Just remember that all fed regs can be superseded by
state regs (just ask the Supreme Court). I suggest you print the epa doc
stated below and consult your local epa air quality bureaucrat to see
which has greater authority.
You can find all this and much more, if you can stay awake while reading
it, at
http://www.epa.gov/region4/air/asbestos/demolish.htm
Perhaps the asbestos scare associated with Vinyl Asbestos Tile can
finally be quashed. Just remember you still can't smoke it.
Here are some additional sites regarding safe asbestos removal.
http://www.fcimag.com/feature1.htm
http://www.asbestos-institute.ca/buildings/tiles.html