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6. ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT |
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Campus buildings constructed prior to 1981 typically have asbestos within
their structures. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral used extensively in building
materials as a fire preven-tative measure before its health hazards were
fully known. It is only a hazard if the microscopic fibers are released into
the air. Once the fibers are in the air, humans can breathe in the fibers
which become lodged in the lungs. Most people experiencing negative health
effects from asbestos have breathed air containing high concentrations of
asbestos over long periods of time.
NMSU operates a program to manage asbestos so that all regulations are
complied with during renovation projects and normal maintenance activities.
NMSU contracts state licensed workers to perform asbestos removal. Asbestos
warning signs will indicate the areas where asbestos-containing materials
are being removed. These signs will be posted at such a distance from the
removal project that an employee may read the signs and safely avoid the
regulated area.
To ensure environmentally safe working conditions, all personnel potentially
exposed to asbestos must attend
Asbestos Awareness Training. Building
material should not be disturbed if it is unknown whether or not the
material contains asbestos.
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