Asbestos is a naturally-occurring fibrous mineral which, until about 1980, was commonly used in building construction. Asbestos fibers are commonly found in thermal system insulation, fireproofing and fire doors, roofing materials, floor tiles, and mastics. As asbestos containing materials (ACM) deteriorate over time, or are disturbed by maintenance, renovation, or demolition activities, they may be released into the air. Asbestos is only a health hazard if it becomes airborne in sufficient numbers.
In 1987, the governor of Maryland issued the Maryland Executive Order 01.01.1987.22, which requires state-owned facilities to identify asbestos-containing materials in their buildings and take appropriate actions to control the release of asbestos fibers.
What is MVA doing?
In compliance with Maryland Executive Order 01.01.1987.22, all MVA owned buildings have been inspected by an accredited asbestos inspector. During the inspections, areas of suspect ACM were identified, and samples were taken of some or all of the suspect materials. Laboratory analysis of these samples confirmed the presence or absence of ACM. Any suspect material not sampled and analyzed was assumed to contain asbestos.
Upon confirmation of the presence of ACM, an Asbestos Management Plan was developed by an accredited asbestos management planner. The Asbestos Management Plan provides information on the periodic monitoring of the condition of ACM remaining in our buildings through re-inspections, conducted by accredited asbestos inspectors, and through periodic surveillance, conducted by trained maintenance staff.
MVA has continued to survey the known locations of asbestos-containing materials to ensure the integrity of the material. Only properly trained personnel are authorized to perform work that may disturb asbestos fibers.
