Module 5: Handling Hazardous Materials 

Demolition projects often encounter hazardous materials that pose serious health and environmental risks. Proper identification, removal, and disposal are critical to worker safety and regulatory compliance. This module covers asbestos, lead, and other dangerous substances, along with safe handling protocols and legal requirements.

1. Identification of Asbestos, Lead, and Other Hazardous Substances

A. Common Hazardous Materials in Demolition

1. Asbestos

• Where Found: Insulation, floor tiles, roofing, pipe wrap, textured coatings (pre-1980s buildings).

• Health Risks: Lung cancer, mesothelioma, asbestosis (from inhaled fibers).

2. Lead-Based Paint

• Where Found: Paint on walls, windows, doors (common in pre-1978 structures).

• Health Risks: Neurological damage, anemia, kidney failure (from dust or chips).

3. Mold & Fungus

• Where Found: Damp wood, drywall, HVAC systems.

• Health Risks: Respiratory issues, allergic reactions.

4. PCBs (Polychlorinated Biphenyls)

• Where Found: Caulking, electrical transformers (pre-1979).

• Health Risks: Carcinogenic, endocrine disruptor.

5. Silica Dust

• Where Found: Concrete, brick, stone cutting/drilling.

• Health Risks: Silicosis, lung scarring.

B. Detection & Testing Methods

• Asbestos & Lead Testing:

• Accredited labs analyze bulk samples (EPA 600/R-93/116).

• XRF (X-ray fluorescence) guns for lead paint detection.

• Air Monitoring:

• OSHA Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs) must be followed.

2. Safe Removal and Disposal Procedures

A. Asbestos Abatement Process

1. Containment Setup

• Seal work area with plastic sheeting (negative air pressure units).

• Use decontamination chambers (airlocks).

2. Wet Removal Methods

• Spray ACM (Asbestos-Containing Material) with amended water to suppress fibers.

3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Full-face respirators (P100 filters), disposable coveralls.

4. Waste Handling

• Double-bag in labeled, leak-tight containers (OSHA 1910.1001).

• Transport to EPA-approved landfills only.

B. Lead Paint Removal

1. Wet Scraping/HEPA Vacuuming

• Minimize dust generation.

2. Chemical Strippers

• Avoid methylene chloride (banned by EPA in 2019).

3. Encapsulation (Alternative to Removal)

• Seal lead paint with special coatings.

C. Silica Dust Control

• Water Spraying during cutting/drilling.

• HEPA Vacuum Systems on power tools.

• OSHA Table 1 Compliance (specifies exposure control methods).

D. Universal Waste Handling

• Fluorescent Bulbs, Batteries, Mercury Devices:

• Separate storage, EPA-approved recycling.

3. Regulatory Compliance (OSHA, EPA, etc.)

A. OSHA Standards

1. Asbestos (29 CFR 1910.1001, 1926.1101)

• Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL): 0.1 fibers/cc (8-hour TWA).

• Requires medical surveillance for exposed workers.

2. Lead (29 CFR 1926.62)

• PEL: 50 µg/m³ (8-hour TWA).

• Blood lead monitoring mandatory.

3. Silica (29 CFR 1926.1153)

• PEL: 50 µg/m³ (respirable crystalline silica).

B. EPA Regulations

1. NESHAP (Asbestos)

• Requires notification before demolition (EPA 40 CFR Part 61).

2. TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act)

• Governs PCB disposal (40 CFR Part 761).

3. RCRA (Hazardous Waste Disposal)

• Proper manifesting for asbestos/lead waste (EPA ID needed).

C. State & Local Laws

• Notification Requirements (e.g., 10-day notice for asbestos jobs in NY).

• Licensing for Abatement Contractors (most states require certification).

Conclusion

Module 5 emphasizes proper hazardous material identification, containment, and disposal to prevent health risks and legal penalties. Compliance with OSHA, EPA, and local regulations is non-negotiable for safe demolition operations.