Navigating New Jersey Asbestos Regulations: What Homeowners and Contractors Need to Know
If you’re renovating or demolishing a building in Ocean County, New Jersey, there’s a crucial factor you need to consider: the risk of asbestos.
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals, and although it was once commonly used as insulation for pipes, floor tiles, and building materials, it’s now widely recognized as a carcinogenic hazard.
According to the World Health Organization, more than 200,000 deaths are estimated to be caused by occupational exposure to asbestos hazards – more than 70% of all deaths from work-related cancers.
New Jersey was no stranger to the use of asbestos prior to the 1970s. So, before you knock down that wall or scrape that ceiling, you need to inspect for the presence of asbestos-containing material.
Both homeowners and contractors must follow strict asbestos protocols to protect New Jersey communities and avoid costly fines. Fortunately, we’re here to help with that.
At Brick Asbestos & Demolition, we know all there is to know about asbestos, from permissible exposure limits to the processes producing asbestos dust in our community.
Here’s a guide to help you navigate New Jersey asbestos regulations, with essential information on compliance, a timeline of regulatory changes, and a look at what may lie ahead.
Why Is Asbestos Dangerous?
Although it was once widely used in construction and manufacturing, asbestos poses serious health risks due to its microscopic, needle-like fibers.
When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, they release these tiny fibers into the air, which can be easily inhaled. Once in the lungs, these sharp fibers can cause inflammation and scarring, leading to serious illnesses over time, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma—a rare, aggressive cancer with no known cure.
The true danger lies in its prolonged latency; symptoms often don’t appear for 20-50 years, making it challenging to detect early in affected employees and residents. This hidden risk makes asbestos particularly hazardous and explains the need for strict precautions and professional handling to keep environments safe.
The health risks of asbestos are magnified by its widespread use in older public and commercial buildings throughout New Jersey, meaning that renovation or demolition activities can easily disturb asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).
Why Asbestos Regulations Matter in Ocean County
According to the New Jersey Department of Health, there are more than 3,000 types of commercial products that contain asbestos. These are commonly found in local homes, businesses, and public buildings that were built prior to the 1970s – and that makes up a significant portion of Ocean County properties.
Asbestos can enter the environment from exposed natural deposits and the disturbance or removal of asbestos-containing materials, which are found in items like floor tiles, roof shingles, insulation, and automotive brakes. When ACM becomes damaged, it can release fibers into the air, especially if the material is friable—able to crumble with hand pressure.
Non-friable ACM, such as floor tiles and siding, typically holds fibers tightly, but activities like sanding or sawing can make these materials friable and still create an inhalation hazard.
To avoid asbestos exposure and promote occupational safety, as well as the safety of residents and visitors, contractors must abide by state and county laws. New Jersey’s regulations are designed to prevent exposure during renovations, demolitions, and other construction-related activities.
Compliance Requirements for Homeowners and Contractors
Whether you’re a homeowner looking to remodel or a contractor working on a renovation project, adhering to state’s asbestos regulations isn’t just recommended – it’s legally required.
Here are the primary requirements to consider upfront:
1. Asbestos Inspections
Before any renovation or demolition, a thorough asbestos inspection by a certified professional is highly recommended. This inspection involves an initial exposure assessment, identifying and testing asbestos-containing materials, and evaluating the level of risk they pose on the property.
By pinpointing potential hazards, certified inspectors help keep asbestos exposure within the permissible exposure limit (PEL), reducing the risk of asbestos fibers becoming airborne and protecting the health of all occupants and workers.
2. Permit Application Process
Once a professional inspection is complete, homeowners and contractors should apply for the necessary permits. Applications must include documentation of any presumed asbestos-containing material that may have been found. The Ocean County Permit Office provides details on specific requirements.
3. Proper Handling and Removal
Attempting to handle asbestos-containing materials without proper certification can be dangerous and lead to regulatory penalties, so rely on experts to keep the process safe and compliant.
In New Jersey, asbestos abatement supervisors and workers must hold state asbestos permits, and their employers need an asbestos contractor’s license to perform asbestos work. The NJ Department of Labor and Workforce Development issues these licenses and permits.
The professional removal process involves sealing the area, using personal protective equipment (PPE), and adhering to disposal guidelines set by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP).
4. Waste Disposal
Asbestos waste must be transported and disposed of at an approved facility to ensure it doesn’t pose a risk to nearby residents or the environment. Non-compliance with these procedures can result in hefty fines and project delays.
New Jersey’s Asbestos Regulatory Timeline
Unfortunately, our county wasn’t always aware of the risks asbestos poses, nor were we always on top of the necessary requirements and preventive measures to keep people safe.
Over the last handful of decades, the state of New Jersey has progressively developed its asbestos laws and regulations. Here’s a timeline highlighting major regulatory efforts and their impact on our communities and asbestos-related services:
1980s
During the 1980s, awareness of asbestos-related health risks grew nationwide, prompting New Jersey counties to take their first steps in addressing asbestos hazards and protecting occupational safety and health.
Early efforts were focused primarily on educating the public and local industries about asbestos exposure risks, especially in older buildings. Although regulations at this time were minimal, these initiatives laid the groundwork for more comprehensive measures in the years to come.
1990s
In the 1990s, counties throughout New Jersey took a firmer stance on asbestos control, implementing the first set of mandatory inspection and abatement protocols. These regulations required that older buildings, typically those constructed before the 1980s, undergo asbestos inspections prior to any renovation or demolition.
This shift marked a significant milestone as the state moved from education to enforcement, aiming to reduce asbestos exposure in residential and commercial properties.
2000s
With an increased focus on health and environmental safety, the 2000s brought stricter asbestos handling and disposal requirements.
Collaboration with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) during this period led to more stringent abatement processes, including specific procedures for the safe removal and transport of asbestos-containing materials. These updates aimed to improve compliance and minimize asbestos risks to workers and residents alike.
2010s
Throughout the 2010s, New Jersey updated its regulations to include tougher penalties for non-compliance and required more detailed documentation from contractors and homeowners involved in asbestos abatement.
The decade also saw the introduction of community-focused programs designed to keep residents informed about nearby asbestos removal projects, underscoring the county’s commitment to transparency and public health.
2020s
Today, New Jersey has made further regulatory advancements, including a new requirement for advance notification of asbestos removal projects, especially those near residential areas and schools. This measure allows communities to stay informed and prepare for any potential exposure risks.
The update also provided additional resources for contractors and property owners, reinforcing a proactive approach to managing asbestos-containing materials in the modern landscape.
Additionally, the Asbestos Control and Licensing Act (ACLA) now allows the Department of Labor and Workforce Development to impose civil administrative penalties of up to $25,000 for violations related to asbestos.
These changes have shaped local approaches to asbestos management, making it one of New Jersey’s most proactive regions in asbestos regulation.
Common Compliance Challenges
Local contractors and homeowners often face common issues related to asbestos compliance. You need to abide by federal and state regulations, but doing so is often easier said than done, especially if this isn’t a hazard you’re overly familiar with.
Here are some of the frequent challenges of maintaining asbestos compliance and ways to avoid them:
Misidentifying Asbestos
Asbestos can be present in hundreds of materials in New Jersey buildings, including roofing, floor tiles, and insulation. Failing to recognize an asbestos-containing material can lead to accidental exposure.
To avoid this and stay in full compliance, always consult a certified inspector before starting any project. This will cover your tail and help keep people safe from a highly dangerous contaminant.
Improper Disposal
As we’ve mentioned, New Jersey strictly regulates asbestos waste disposal, and improper handling can lead to contamination and fines. Use only NJDEP-approved facilities for asbestos disposal.
Homeowners or contractors who have asbestos material in need of disposal may bring this material to the Ocean County Landfill, located on Route 70 in Manchester Township. You can also contact a professional asbestos abatement company to handle the disposal (which is typically safer and more convenient).
Permit Delays
Applying for the necessary permits can sometimes lead to project delays, especially if asbestos-containing materials are detected. Planning for this extra time can help keep your project on track and prevent you from skipping compliance steps in the name of staying on schedule.
The Future of Asbestos Regulations
As environmental and health awareness grows, New Jersey may continue to update its regulations regarding asbestos-containing materials. Future changes could include stricter guidelines on material disposal, enhanced notification systems for residential areas, and potentially increased funding for community awareness programs.
If you’re worried about keeping up with the latest developments, partner with an abatement specialist. It’s their job to stay on top of asbestos-related news and regulations.
Other Practical Tips for Asbestos Compliance
As authorities in this industry, we also highly recommend that you maintain all documentation related to your project’s asbestos inspections, abatement activities, asbestos-containing materials, employee exposure requirements, and permits.
Proper records are essential if you need to demonstrate compliance during an inspection or address questions from local authorities. Having well-organized paperwork can also streamline the permitting process for future projects, making it easier to stay compliant and ensure occupational safety.
Useful Resources
When it comes to managing asbestos-related projects, understanding the relevant resources is crucial for ensuring safety and compliance. Here are a few we recommend:
- Ocean County Permit Office provides information on permits and inspection requirements related to asbestos-containing materials.
- The NJ Department of Environmental Protection offers guidance on asbestos regulations and proper disposal methods, helping to mitigate occupational health hazards.
- The Ocean County Department of Public Information assists with compliance and provides educational resources to help businesses minimize employee exposure to asbestos.
Of course, if you have any questions, our team at Brick Asbestos & Demolition is also here to provide aid.
Need Help Navigating Asbestos Regulations in NJ?
Managing asbestos compliance and occupational safety can be complex, but you don’t have to face it alone.
Brick Industries specializes in asbestos inspection, removal, and compliance solutions for Ocean County homeowners and contractors. Our certified professionals are well-versed in local and state regulations, helping you stay safe and meet all legal requirements with confidence.
Contact us today to discuss your project and learn how we can simplify your needs—from identifying existing asbestos hazards to removing asbestos-containing materials.
Let’s make sure your next renovation or demolition project is both compliant and worry-free.
