Both California OSHA and the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) regulate the disturbance, removal and disposal of asbestos-containing materials. However, significant differences between the two agencies exist, and it’s important to know the difference.  They are listed below:

SCAQMD Rule 1403

1. 1Prior to renovation or demolition, the SCAQMD requires an asbestos survey for ALL structures REGARDLESS OF BUILDING AGE.
2. The SCAQMD is relatively active in southern California. They require notification of any abatement project >100 s.f., and will often visit abatement projects at random. Penalties for non-compliance can be severe.
3. The SCAQMD does not regulate asbestos at concentrations <1%. (1.0%) .
4. The SCAQMD enforces limits on airborne emissions of hazardous dusts and fumes.
5. The SCAQMD is a federally funded agency.

Cal-OSHA - Cal Title 8 Section 1529

1. Prior to renovation or demolition, Cal-OSHA requires an asbestos survey for pre-1980 construction.
2. Routine site visits from Cal-OSHA are rare. They do respond to written complaints, worker injury or death. Like the SCAQMD, OSHA requires notification of any abatement project >100 s.f.
3. Cal-OSHA regulates asbestos at concentrations greater than one-tenth of 1% (0.1%).
4. Cal-OSHA enforces worker safety rules in California.
5. Cal-OSHA is funded by the state of California.