Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous silicate mineral. The asbestos fibers themselves are microscopic, extremely durable, flame resistant, and resistant to most chemical reactions. These properties are why it has been used for so many years in a number of different applications. The downside is that exposure to asbestos fibers is directly linked to a number of lung and respiratory conditions, including lung cancer, mesothelioma (cancer of the lining of the lungs), and asbestosis (scarring of the lungs).

Each year, all Georgia Tech employees who may encounter asbestos containing materials (but do not intentionally disturb them), must take a two-hour awareness training class. You can register for the training using your Georgia Tech credentials here. If you think you might encounter asbestos containing materials (ACM) while completing renovations or demolitions, or if you are involved in a mechanical, electrical, or plumbing emergency that may involve ACM, let us know as soon as possible. We can help put together a scope for your projects, recommend consultants, arrange for sampling, and ensure proper procedures are followed during an abatement activity or accidental release. We also have a fairly large database of asbestos surveys done in buildings across the campus which can help eliminate redundant sampling of some materials.

• Need an asbestos survey done? Contact us.
• Do you think asbestos has been disturbed and there may have been an exposure? Check out our emergency page.