Approximately 10,000 people die every year in the United States from diseases caused by exposure to asbestos. Asbestos abatement has been regulated by the federal government in varying degrees since 1975, and by the State of Oklahoma since 1982. The Department of Labor has adopted rules that regulate the procedures which may be used by asbestos abatement contractors. These rules have served as models for other states.

The asbestos field personnel perform inspections on asbestos abatement projects in Oklahoma. They are involved in emergency situations where the disruption of asbestos-containing materials have caused or have the potential to cause contamination. Private residents are exempt from Federal and State asbestos regulations.

 • More background and history about asbestos