A Message from PACR on Lead, Asbestos Testing in Wake of Colorado Flooding
The requirement for testing of asbestos and lead has been lifted only for the structures that were flooded and affected by the recent flooding in Colorado.
According to a message released by Larry Cooper, PACR Technical Director, guidance on handling asbestos contaminated materials in flood debris is provided under "Flood Debris Guidance" on the Flood Resources Page, State of Colorado, Department of Health. This waiver also extends to lead testing for drywall:
The requirement to inspect suspect materials for asbestos under Colorado Regulation No. 8, Part B, has been waived for buildings damaged or destroyed by the recent floods. However, other agencies’ regulations requiring sampling (for example, OSHA) may still apply. If asbestos-containing materials (ACM) are known to be present in a structure or if sampling is done and ACM is found, the requirements under Regulation No. 8, Part B still apply. This regulation covers the proper abatement and disposal of asbestos, and may require permitting.