In response to the question of whether the current regulations for those working with asbestos-containing building materials, it is my opinion that the regulations should remain in effect, essentially as they are written. Exposure to asbestos fibers on a routine basis is still a health concern for those that work with or aorund asbestos-containing materials, as well as for the immediate family members of those workers. Workers may be in the abatement industry or in building maintenance; the effect of asbestos fibers on lung tissues has not changed in 3,000 years. The cost of medical treatment for those affected by asbestos exposure and the cost of litigation associated with asbestos-related disease far out-weigh the economic buurden to an employer, building owner, or school administration.

Our organization would like to use this opportunity to bring a problem with the asbestos industry to your attention.  We have received complaints from numerous workers in northern Virginia regarding poor training standards in the state.  It is our belief that contractors, the general public, and workers alike are poorly-served when workers do not receive training of the highest quality.

One of the most egregious violations we have heard of is that supposedly closed-book exams have actually been administered open-book.  In fact, workers have told us that instructors have told them more than 40 out of 50 answers in some cases.  Workers are supposed to receive 32 hours of asbestos abatement training, but we have received reports that the topic is only covered for 8 hours in some cases. 

In short, some of the private training centers in the state are not doing their jobs properly.  It is simply impossible for workers to receive quality training if classes are not comprehensive enough, and if tests are not truly closed-book.  When workers go onto job sites without knowing how to handle asbestos properly, not only do they put themselves at risk of developing diseases such as mesothelioma and asbestosis, but they also risk bringing friable materials back home with them.  The general public and these workers deserve better.

Contractors can also not do their work properly if they cannot count on having a well-trained workforce.  This problem has detrimental effects on all parties involved.  Therefore, we hereby request that the Board address this problem immediately. 

Sincerely,

Brian Donohue

Director

Mid-Atlantic Laborers-Employers Cooperation and Education Trust