BC Housing wants to ensure the safety of individuals. This includes ensuring potential exposure to asbestos containing materials is minimal or eliminated in all workplaces/residences. As many of our buildings were constructed years ago, there is a likelihood that some materials may contain asbestos within the building.

Asbestos is a naturally-occurring mineral that was primarily used for fireproofing among many other applications. It is mined from rock in the form of a fiber that can be spun or woven into fabric and other products. Its many qualities led to widespread use before its serious heath effects were common knowledge. Asbestos doesn’t burn, is strong, resistant to chemical damage, an insulator against heat and inexpensive. Although asbestos has since been banned for many uses, it remains present in older construction, fireproofing and insulation products. It causes no harm as long as it is contained and is in good condition, but if it is disturbed or damaged, they release tiny fibers that can be breathed in and may cause serious health problems.

Work that you do in construction, maintenance, or demolition could potentially release asbestos fibers and place people at risk for exposure. Due to asbesto's many properties it is usually mixed with other materials. For example, some floor tiles contain a small amount of asbestos on the underside of the tile. The mineral can be found in sprayed fireproofing, sprayed insulation, fire doors, pipe and boiler wrap, building insulation in walls and ceilings, gypsum taping compound, texture coats, cementing compounds used in plumbing, older shingles and siding.

A manual has been developed for service providers to provide guidance in ensuring compliance with WorkSafe BC Health and Safety Regulations. As the building owner, we want to ensure that service providers are aware of potential hazards of exposure and apply the required program to ensure safety practices to reduce risk. Click here for more information on Asbestos Management (Chapter 1 of a larger guide called Hazard Management Information for Service Providers / Contractors. )

Appendix A - Summary of Work: Asbestos Abatement : This document outlines the guidelines for performing Asbestos abatement services as set out by BC Housing.