The History of Asbestos Removal Regulations in Canada
Asbestos is a serious health and safety hazard and both the Canadian Government and the Government of Alberta have taken the necessary legal precautions when it comes to asbestos abatement and production to prevent it from spreading.
The government helps protect Canadians from asbestos exposure by regulating:
- The sale of certain high risk consumer products which contain asbestos. This is done through the Asbestos Products Regulations under the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act.
- The possible release of asbestos fibres into the environment from unsafe asbestos removal practices. This is carried out through the Asbestos Mines and Mills Release Regulations.
Consumer Product Safety Act
While asbestos has not been banned on either a federal or provincial level in Canada, there are policies which regulate the sale and use of asbestos in the country.
As part of the Consumer Product Safety Act, the federal law prohibits certain asbestos-containing products from being imported or sold in Canada including:
- Textile fibres containing asbestos
- Asbestos in products/toys used by children
- Certain construction materials, including drywall cement and some patching materials which may contain asbestos
Calgary Asbestos Removal Policies
The Alberta Building Code is a section of the province’s Occupational Health & Safety Code that specifically prohibits the use of certain asbestos-containing materials in construction, demolition and renovation of property.
In addition, the Alberta Asbestos Abatement Manual is a best-practices guide for the safe removal or abatement of asbestos-containing materials. This asbestos removal manual provides basic information on:
- The health hazards of asbestos
- The equipment and protection requirements when working with asbestos
- Safe work procedures
- Applicable laws to asbestos removal
- Inspection criteria
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Alberta’s Occupational Health & Safety Code requires that:
- 72 hours notification must be given prior to starting any asbestos abatement projects
- Before embarking on any asbestos removal in restricted areas, all workers must get government-approved asbestos training.
DIY Asbestos Removal
It is highly recommended that you never attempt any asbestos removal procedures yourself. Asbestos removal is a dangerous and complex process and if you do not have the proper training and equipment, you could be putting you and your family at risk for serious health risks.
If you have any concerns regarding the potential presence of asbestos or require assistance with an abatement projects, 24/7 Restoration can help.
We are a reputable asbestos abatement company, able to provide full asbestos services from testing and planning to containment and removal.
Our team of highly-qualified technicians follow the Alberta Asbestos Abatement Manual and are able to execute the procedure safely and efficiently.
Learn More
To learn more about the asbestos abatement policies in Calgary and our comprehensive asbestos removal services, contact us today at 403-247-4365.
