Are you planning a renovation or demolition project within the boundaries of the City of Jacksonville? If so, then you need to be aware of the importance of asbestos testing and how it relates to the permitting process.
To ensure that the project is done safely, city officials require an asbestos survey before they will issue a permit. Otherwise, you may be subject to certain legal fines and citations that come with not adhering to policy.
Read on for a brief asbestos-related roadmap if you need or are preparing for an asbestos survey in Jacksonville!
Understanding NESHAP and Asbestos
NESHAP stands for the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants and is a set of regulations established by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The purpose of NESHAP is to protect human health and the environment by setting limits on the amount of hazardous air pollutants that can be released into the air.
NESHAP is a key tool in protecting the public from exposure to hazardous air pollutants, and one of the most significant pollutants regulated by NESHAP is asbestos.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has been used extensively in construction and insulation due to its fire-resistant properties, but when it becomes airborne it can cause serious health risks such as lung cancer and mesothelioma.
Thus, “The Asbestos NESHAP has been adopted by reference in Section 62-204.800, Florida Administrative Code” according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FLDEP).
Asbestos Requirements in Jacksonville, FL
As a result of the aforementioned, the City of Jacksonville (COJ) specifies that “the structures/components to be disturbed must be inspected for asbestos by a licensed asbestos consultant.”
City officials will not issue a project permit for renovations or demolition projects until an asbestos survey is provided with the applicant’s documentation.
If you are preparing to undergo this process prior to construction, here is a step-by-step walkthrough of what you can expect:
- You will first submit a notification form to the COJ specifying that you intend to complete a demolition or renovation project.
- The city will respond by asking if you have had an asbestos survey completed. If you have not, officials will tell you that you are required to schedule one.
- Once completed, you may submit the survey results with your notification.
- If there is no asbestos, then COJ will issue a permit.
- If there is asbestos present, then it must be abated. You must obtain and submit a clearance certificate before the city issues you a permit.
Finding a Qualified Professional for Your Survey
If you’re planning to schedule an asbestos survey, it’s important to ensure that you’re reaching out to a qualified professional who is certified to handle asbestos.
For instance, Luce Air Quality is not only a licensed asbestos business with a licensed asbestos consultant, but all individual inspectors have extensive training and certifications related to asbestos.
As a result, when you contact Luce Air Quality, a team of local indoor air quality experts will provide you with reliable solutions that pave the way for a successful permitting process with the City of Jacksonville!
Get in touch with us today by calling (904) 803-1014 or emailing info@luceairquality.com to learn more about our services and schedule your asbestos survey.