Legal requirements for asbestos removal
Asbestosonce valued for its fireproof and insulating properties, was used in many building materials in the 1970s and 1980s. However, the health risks associated with asbestos fibers led to strict legal requirements for the handling and removal of materials containing asbestos.
Why are legal requirements necessary?
Asbestos fibers are extremely small and can lead to serious lung diseases if inhaled. For this reason, legal requirements have been issued in Germany and the EU to protect the health of workers and the general population.
Important legal regulations:
- Chemicals Prohibition Ordinance (ChemVerbotsV): The manufacture, placing on the market and use of asbestos has been banned in Germany since 1993. The EU-wide regulation followed in 2005.
- Hazardous Substances Ordinance (GefStoffV): This regulation defines protective measures for work with hazardous substances, including asbestos.
- Technical rule for hazardous substances TRGS 519: It refers specifically to demolition, renovation or maintenance work involving asbestos and lays down detailed protective and precautionary measures.
- Directive 2009/148/EC: At EU level, this directive protects employees from hazards caused by asbestos in the workplace.
What does this mean for asbestos removal?
Companies that carry out asbestos removal must be specially trained and certified. They must ensure that no asbestos fibers are released into the environment and that their employees are protected. Strict regulations also apply to the disposal of materials containing asbestos.
Conclusion
The legal requirements for asbestos removal are strict and serve to protect health. It is of the utmost importance that both companies and private individuals are aware of and comply with these regulations.