ASBESTOS SHINGLES
MassDEP urges hiring a licensed asbestos contractor to remove asbestos shingles

MassDEP recommends that you consider retaining a licensed asbestos contractor to remove asbestos shingles, since the handling practice standards in the asbestos regulations (except for work area containment and air cleaning as specified in this guidance) must be fully met regardless of who conducts the removal.

Improperly removing asbestos cement shingles can pose a health threat to those doing the removal and to others who may breathe fibers released into the air as a result of improper removal practices. If you do not feel completely comfortable following the handling practices and safety recommendations described in this guidance and the asbestos regulations, you should not do the removal and should hire a competent professional.

Causing or contributing to a condition of air pollution is a violation of MassDEP regulations and may subject the violator to penalties or orders to clean up contaminated areas.

It is important to remember that the cement shingles must be intact before you start the removal. If the shingles are deteriorated at the start of the removal or break during the removal, then you should stop working, notify MassDEP and hire a professional asbestos contractor.

Courtesy of The State of Massachusetts