Asbestos

Asbestos is a mineral fiber. It can be positively identified only with a special type of microscope. There are several types of asbestos fibers. In the past, asbestos was added to a variety of products to strengthen them and to provide heat insulation and fire resistance. The Environmental Department air quality staff is responsible for conducting asbestos inspections at building demolition sites identified by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). Our staff inspects the designated site to confirm that all asbestos materials in the building that are required to be removed have actually been removed.

The JCED also conducts preliminary investigations on behalf of KDHE and responds to complaints from local residents. We do not have enforcement authority, however, so all information is turned over to the KDHE for their review. Under state statutes, KDHE can assess fines for asbestos violations. If the violation also violates the federal Clean Air Act, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has authority and can issue fines and/or prison terms in criminal cases.

Even if asbestos is in your home, this is usually NOT a serious problem. The mere presence of asbestos in a home or a building is not hazardous. The danger is that asbestos materials may become damaged over time. Damaged asbestos may release fibers and become a health hazard. The best thing to do with asbestos material in good condition is to leave it alone! Disturbing it may create a health hazard where none existed before. Read the information on this site carefully before you have any asbestos material inspected, removed or repaired.

More Information

Diseases Linked to Asbestos
Asbestos Do's and Don'ts for the Homeowner
Asbestos Contractors
Choosing a Contractor
Frequently Asked Questions
Asbestos Publications
Asbestos Links