Why are asbestos surveys required by law?
The Clean Air Act (CAA) requires the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to develop and enforce regulations to protect the general public from exposure to airborne contaminants that are known to be hazardous to human health. In accordance with Section 112 of the CAA, EPA established National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) to protect the public. Asbestos was one of the first hazardous air pollutants regulated under Section 112. On March 31, 1971, EPA identified asbestos as a hazardous pollutant, and on April 6, 1973, EPA first promulgated the Asbestos NESHAP in 40 CFR Part 61. In 1982, EPA delegated primary authority for the implementation and enforcement of the Asbestos NESHAP to the State of Florida. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) administers an asbestos removal program under Chapter 62-257, Florida Administrative Code. The Asbestos NESHAP has been adopted by reference in section 62-204.800, Florida Administrative Code. The
