CONTACT: Stephanie Marquis, (608) 266-1683

DEPARTMENT TO HOLD FREE INFORMATION MEETINGS ABOUT REVISED ASBESTOS REGULATIONS

MADISON—The Department of Health Services is encouraging contractors, facilities managers and rental property owners to attend a free information session regarding the revisions to the administrative code related to asbestos abatement. The Department recommends that all who conduct their own building work attend one of the scheduled information sessions to learn what is needed to both comply with these regulations and protect themselves, their workers and occupants from asbestos hazards.

The sessions are free and will be held throughout the state to help explain the changes made to Administrative Code DHS 159, the Certification and Training Course Requirements for Asbestos Activities. No pre-registration is required to attend.

Asbestos is a common part of many building materials, including floor tiles and sheet flooring, mastics and caulks, fireproofing, ceiling tiles and siding, among other building components. Asbestos is hazardous when it releases microscopic fibers into the air. This can happen when building components containing asbestos are damaged, disturbed or removed. When breathed in, asbestos fibers may become lodged in the lungs.

Asbestos is particularly dangerous because there are no immediate symptoms of exposure. Health problems take decades to appear and asbestos can cause serious diseases including lung cancer, asbestosis and the cancer called mesothelioma.

In addition to currently certified asbestos abatement contractors and consultants, the Department also recommends that general renovation contractors, roofers, siders, window installers, insulation and weatherization contractors, facilities managers and rental property owners attend one of the free sessions listed below:

For more information about the free informational sessions, go to http://dhs.wisconsin.gov/asbestos/index.htm

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Last Revised:  March 23, 2009