Asbestos is a mineral that can be broken down into very fine fibers that are heat-resistant and extremely durable. Because of these properties, asbestos was widely used in construction materials until 1987. As of 1987, most building materials no longer contain asbestos.  The following materials may be asbestos containing materials (ACM):

  • Drywall and joint compound
  • Plaster
  • Mud and texture coats
  • Vinyl floor tiles, sheeting, and adhesives
  • Roofing tars, felts, siding, and shingles
  • “Transite” panels, siding, countertops, and pipes
  • Popcorn ceiling, also known as acoustic ceilings
  • Fireproofing
  • Caulk
  • Interior fire doors
  • Thermal pipe insulation

Asbestos is a hazardous air pollutant that can cause serious illnesses, including malignant lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.  Long term exposure to high concentrations of asbestos fibers is more likely to cause health problems. Depending on its condition, asbestos in your home may be hazardous to your health. As long as asbestos is not disturbed, damaged or worn, or the material is sealed, it is not considered a health hazard.

If there is ACM in or on your owner-occupied single family home that needs to be removed there are two options for removal.  The first option is to hire an Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) licensed asbestos abatement contractor to remove the asbestos.  The second option allows the homeowners to remove the ACM themselves.  The DEQ can provide guidance documents that have instructions for the safe removal of ACM.

NOTE:

The Rogue Transfer Station will not accept any building materials without an analytical report that shows that the material does not contain asbestos.

The Landfill only accepts materials containing asbestos at Dry Creek Landfill, 6260 Dry Creek Road on Wednesdays from 7:30am until 11:00am. Anyone bringing materials containing asbestos to the Landfill must notify the Landfill by calling a minimum of 24 hours before bringing the materials to the Landfill.

Sampling Instructions

  • Wet down the material with a light water mist before taking the sample. This reduces the potential release of asbestos fibers.
  • Do not disturb the material any more than is necessary to take a small sample.  A 2 x 2 inch piece is sufficient for most building material.  For popcorn ceiling or texture, scrape small amounts from different areas to create a composite sample of about 2 tablespoons.
  • Place the sample in a clean, “air-tight” container such as a double zip-lock bag or small glass jar.
  • Seal the container tightly.
  • Use a damp paper towel to clean up any material on the outside of the container or that might have spilled onto the floor.
  • Clearly label the container, stating where and when the sample was taken.
  • Take the sample or send the sample to Neilson Research Corporation for analyses. Make sure to take one sample for each different type of suspect material.
  • Samples can be submitted via mail, UPS/Fed Ex, or drop-off.  Neilson Research Corporation’s hours of operation are 8:30am to 5pm, Monday through Friday in Medford and from 10am to 4pm, Monday through Friday in Grants Pass.
  • Please download and properly complete a chain of custody form (hyperlink chain of custody form to a printable PDF), enclosed with a check for payment.  If you would like to make a payment with a credit card, please indicate this on the chain of custody, and you will be contacted upon receipt of the sample.
  • Testing Turn-Around-Times (TAT) available: Standard TAT- 2 Business Days. Rush Options at additional cost: 1 Business Day, Same Day, and Same Hour

To submit a sample for asbestos analysis, please bring
about a 2 inch squared piece of material contained in a
Ziploc bag with the following Chain of Custody form filled out.

Website Links:

Oregon DEQ Website: https://www.oregon.gov/deq/Hazards-and-Cleanup/Pages/Asbestos-Information.aspx

Rogue Disposal Website: http://roguedisposal.com/asbestos/

EPA Website: http://www.epa.gov/asbestos/