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Connecticut Asbestos Laws


The shipbuilding industry is the primary source of asbestos contamination in Connecticut.  All that worked in shipyard constructing and maintaining ships from World War II onward are at greatly increased risk of showing asbestos related illness in later years.  Construction and industrial workers are also at some risk, depending on their level of exposure and time spent working unprotected with the hazardous material.

Why are shipyard particularly dangerous areas for asbestos?

Since asbestos is waterproof, it is exceptionally useful in ships and it was indeed used for decades to cover pipers and machinery in ships.  These coatings would usually be applied by sprays and since ships tend to be poorly ventilated inside, the asbestos fibers did not disperse, leading to high, dangerous concentrations of asbestos.  Asbestos is impossible to see with the naked eye, so most workers were unaware they were breathing millions of tiny fibers.  Sailors on these ships may also have been exposed to asbestos particles suspended in the air.  Most military and Coast Guard buildings have since undergone asbestos abatement, as set by Connecticut asbestos laws.

Can I file for asbestos litigation in Connecticut?

Most asbestos claims will be determined in settlement by working with the employer or entity responsible for the exposure.  Still those that cannot reach a settlement and need to pursue a claim in court can do so without being hampered by restrictive laws on mesothelioma and other asbestos litigation.  You must have an asbestos related illness and be able to demonstrate how the defendant is responsible for the injury.  You will be able to find Connecticut asbestos lawyers that are familiar with Connecticut asbestos laws through the Find Attorneys function on this website.

How does the state enforce its Connecticut asbestos laws?

The Asbestos Program is an initiative by the Connecticut Department of Public Health to eliminate asbestos containing materials in schools by working with professional abatement specialists.

What is an Environmental Practitioner Licensure?

The state of Connecticut will certify Environmental Practitioner Licensure to dispose of hazardous materials, include lead and asbestos.  Each category of EPL will have different requirements and some will require examination to certify credentials and suitability to inspect and remove contaminated materials from homes and other structures.  The training for EPLs will include awareness on the dangers of asbestos exposure, federal, state and local laws and also demonstrate the ability to monitor or perform asbestos abatement.

Can I remove asbestos from my residence?

You may need not a expert to help you with asbestos removal, though be advised that without proper precautions, your risk worsening the contamination by releasing thousands of fibers into the air.  You must also adhere to all regulations related to the disposal of asbestos.  It is best to have your house inspected and to get more information about proper disposal to avoid violating Connecticut asbestos laws.

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