On Feb 14, 2025, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) amended its asbestos control program rules:
Section 1-108(f) would be amended to clarify that abrasive methods of
removal are not permitted during flooring abatements.”
Section § 1-02 Definitions. Abatement. “Abatement” shall mean any and all procedures physically taken to control fiber release from asbestos-containing materials. This includes removal, encapsulation, enclosure, cleanup and repair.
What are the basic facts regarding the regulations and abatement of asbestos-containing materials (ACM)?
Misconception: The term “abatement” refers only to removal.
Fact: The EPA defines abatement as any means to either remove mastics or properly encapsulate them using Bridging encapsulants
“Bridging encapsulants” are liquid membranes designed to meet the regulations to be high-solids acrylic materials that are flexible, non-combustible, and applied without disturbing the mastics, among other standards.
Misconception: The EPA requires removal of mastics and floor tiles that contain asbestos.
Fact: The EPA considers abatement of non-friable ACM by encapsulation to be an equal remedy to removal when done using proper bridging encapsulants and using a process that does not disturb the ACM.
“Disturb” is defined as using a process where the matrix of the ACM is changed by dissolving, scraping, grinding, etc.
Myth: Abatement by removal is a “better” solution than encapsulation.
Fact: The EPA prefers abatement by encapsulation where feasible. This is because the encapsulation process does not disturb the ACM and creates no atmospheric particle pollution, fumes, or waste products that contaminate the environment and water supply.
Note: Property owners often prefer less expensive encapsulation of ACM rather than dissolving it, as solvents generally leave behind oil residue and lingering fumes. Abatement companies do not guarantee that any coating or flooring system will adhere to the floor after the ACM is dissolved because the process leaves oil residue on the floor from the original installation as well as the abatement processes.
FAQs
What are the new 2025 regulations for asbestos abatement in flooring?
The DEP now prohibits abrasive removal methods during flooring abatements to reduce fiber release and environmental risk.
What does “asbestos abatement” mean according to the EPA?
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Abatement refers to all methods used to control fiber release from asbestos-containing materials, including removal, encapsulation, and enclosure.
Is asbestos removal always required by law?
No, the EPA allows proper encapsulation of non-friable asbestos as an acceptable alternative to removal, as long as it does not disturb the material.
Is encapsulation safer than asbestos removal?
Yes, in many cases. Encapsulation avoids disturbing asbestos, reducing the risk of air contamination and environmental pollution.
Can flooring adhesives (mastics) with asbestos be safely left in place?
Yes, if encapsulated correctly using EPA-compliant bridging encapsulants that prevent fiber release without damaging the ACM.
