SURVEY FOR ASBESTOS-CONTAINING MATERIALS (ACM) IN SELECTED BUILDINGS OWNED BY THE STATE OF MARYLAND

Abstract

Epidemiological and animal studies have established that asbestos is a carcinogen. Recognition of the health hazards and widespread use of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) in building construction has generated concern for exposure of building occupants to asbestos released from ACM. The State of Maryland conducted a state-wide survey to identify the presence and condition of ACM in over 3,000 buildings. Bulk samples of suspected ACM were collected and analyzed for asbestos content by polarized light microscopy with dispersion staining. An algorithm was used to score each building for potential asbestos exposure and to prioritize buildings for corrective action. Thirteen buildings were examined for the severity of asbestos contamination using the State of Maryland's model.