Asbestos Awareness Brochure

During the 1970’s, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Health and Safety Association (OSHA) began regulating the use and management of asbestos. Schools, workplaces, and facilities are required to implement stringent protocols regarding safe and effective methods for handling, removing, and disposing of asbestos containing materials (ACM). The University's goals are to protect personnel and students from exposure and comply with all state and federal regulations that pertain to asbestos in the work place. The management of asbestos is of importance and a major concern to the UMass Department Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) and to all departments that work with or around this material on a frequent basis.

Asbestos Do's & Don'ts for Building Occupants

  • EH&S should be contacted anytime a building occupant comes across any damaged material that may possibly contain asbestos (e.g., insulated pipe, floor tiles, dry wall).
  • Do not clean up fallen ceiling tiles or broken floor tiles until it is determined they are not asbestos.
  • All renovation work must be performed by or contracted through Physical Plant or Facilities Planning. There are State and Federal Regulations that only permit accredited personnel to perform asbestos-related activities.
  • Undertaking even the smallest renovation job or dismantling equipment without proper planning or with improper equipment may result in exposure to asbestos, lead, or another hazardous material.