2013 Requirement to Label Building Materials that Contain Asbestos
Asbestos is a naturally-occurring mineral fiber. Because of its strength and heat resistance, asbestos has been used in a variety of building construction materials. Today, asbestos-containing building materials are still imported, sold, and used in the United States - despite our knowledge that asbestos is harmful to human health. People using asebestos-containing building materials should avoid creating and breathing dust.
Who is affected by this law?
The law applies to manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors of asbestos-containing building materials.
What does this law require?
Effective January 1, 2014, manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors of asbestos-containing building materials must prominently label both the product and packaging for the following building materials:
- Any building material naturally containing more than one percent asbestos.
- Any building material that has any amount of asbestos added to it.
Where does the label need to be put?
Label the product:
- In a prominent location near the product name or description on the exterior wrapping or packaging in which the product is stored, shipped, and sold.
-
On the exterior surface of the asbestos-containing building material itself, unless it is:
- sold as a liquid or paste or
- unless it is sand or gravel.
What must the label say?
At a minimum, the label must state:
CAUTION!This product contains ASBESTOS, which is known to cause cancer and lung disease.
Avoid creating dust. Intentionally removing or tampering with this label is a violation of state law.
What exemptions apply?
Labeling
The labeling requirement does not apply to:
- Retailers that do not manufacture, wholesale or distribute asbestos-containing building materials
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Asbestos-containing building materials that:
- Have already been installed, applied or used by the consumer
- Are used solely for United States Military purposes
- Were purchased by a retailer prior to January 1, 2014 (stock-on-hand)
Building materials
The term “building materials” does not include products designed for:
- Cars
- Recreational vehicles
- Boats
Other mobile means of transportation