OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

November 13, 2006

Mr. James Sorel, MS, CIH
President
Industrial Hygiene Consulting Services, Inc.
3873 Lake Road North
Brockport, NY 14420

Dear Mr. Sorel:

Thank you for your letter dated August 31, 2006 to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Your letter provided a notice of alternative control methods for Class I asbestos work in accordance with a former provision of OSHA's asbestos construction standard, 29 CFR 1926.1101(g)(6)(iii). OSHA deleted this provision of the standard, so such notification is no longer required by employers.

This change occurred as part of OSHA's ongoing standards improvement project that is revising and eliminating certain obsolete or unnecessary provisions in older standards. The asbestos notification reporting requirement was eliminated because OSHA determined that it did not benefit employee health. The overall project reduces the regulatory burdens on employers while maintaining safety and health protections for employees. The result of the second phase of OSHA's standards improvement project was published as a final rule in the Jan. 5, 2005, Federal Register.

Thank you for your interest in occupational safety and health. We hope you find this information helpful. OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards, and regulations. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at http://www.osha.gov. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact the Office of Health Enforcement at (202) 693-2190.

Sincerely,

 

Richard E. Fairfax, Director
Directorate of Enforcement Programs