O&M Plan for Asbestos Management

O&M Plan Development

• The Director of Plant Operations should oversee all asbestos-related activities and ensure contractors are trained to handle ACM.
• A work permit system should be instituted to prevent accidental disturbances of ACM, requiring contractors to receive permission from the Director of Plant Operations before commencing work.

Communication and Notifications

• The Director of Plant Operations should notify the N.H.A. before conducting planned renovations that would disturb building materials.
• Periodic notice to building occupants is essential to prevent activities that might compromise the O&M program.

Revising the O&M Plan

• The O&M plan should be reviewed annually with the safety committee to determine if it needs to be updated.
• The plan should be revised after removal or renovations affecting ACM.
• The O&M program should remain in effect if there is ACM present in the building.

General Information on Asbestos

• Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals with useful properties such as thermal insulation, chemical and thermal stability, and high tensile strength.

Asbestos Hazards

• Asbestos is made up of microscopic bundles of fibers that can become airborne when disturbed and cause significant health problems when inhaled.
• Health problems associated with asbestos exposure include asbestosis, mesothelioma, lung cancer, and cancer of the gastrointestinal tract.
• The latency period for asbestos-related diseases can range from 15-50 years.

When Asbestos Becomes a Hazard

• Asbestos-containing materials (ACM) in good condition do not pose a hazard to building occupants.
• ACM becomes a hazard when it is disturbed, damaged, or separates, releasing fibers into the air.

Where Asbestos Can Be Found

• Asbestos was used in building materials for its strength, heat resistance, and insulation properties.
• Asbestos can be found in thermal and acoustic insulation, fireproofing, roofing products, and flooring.