Asbestos

Asbestos-containing materials (ACM) are present in many of the buildings throughout Simon Fraser University. These materials do not pose a health hazard unless the asbestos becomes airborne through construction activities or deteriorated materials. For general inquiries about hazardous building materials, please contact hazmat_work@sfu.ca. 

Training & orientation

Asbestos training and orientation is necessary for workers who work around asbestos-containing materials, but the level of training varies by the type of activities performed.

New and young worker orientation

Basic asbestos information is a part of the New and Young Worker Orientation training which all faculty & staff must take.

Asbestos awareness

Asbestos awareness training for all staff who are required to work or direct work in and around ACM’s is coordinated by EHS every 3 years.
The overlying principles for this asbestos awareness training are as follows:

  • The hazards of asbestos
  • The ability to identify and assess for asbestos-containing material(s) at the worksite; and
  • Abatement contractors and their required submittal documents

SFU employees are not permitted to conduct work activities that impact or disturb asbestos-containing materials. All asbestos work is conducted by qualified asbestos abatement contractors, which in addition to the training listed above must have been trained in the following:

  • The work procedures to be followed
  • The correct use of the required personal protective equipment (PPE), and operation of the required engineering controls; and
  • The purpose and significance of any required health monitoring