The University Of Chicago
·Safety and Environmental Affairs·
Date: July 10, 2001
To: University of Chicago
Building Occupants
From: Steven Beaudoin, Director,
Safety and Environmental Affairs
Re: Campus Asbestos Building Survey
Prior to 1980, asbestos fibers were added to many building materials because of its heat and chemical resistant properties, strength, and the fact that it is not easily degraded. When left intact and undisturbed, asbestos-containing materials do not pose a health risk to building occupants.
In accordance with federal and state regulations, which require building owners to identify and locate the presence of asbestos-containing materials in their buildings, the University of Chicago Safety and Environmental Affairs has completed a campus wide asbestos building survey. In addition to the survey requirements, which Safety and Environmental Affairs maintains, building owners are also required to post signs at the entrance of mechanical rooms identifying the asbestos-containing materials in that space. In compliance with these regulations signs will be posted at the entrance of University mechanical rooms, which have asbestos-containing materials beginning in August.
In addition to posting signs at mechanical rooms, the University of Chicago is required to notify the building occupants of the presence and location of asbestos-containing materials. Asbestos-containing materials can be found in building components in mechanical spaces, such as insulation around pipes, ducts, radiators, and tanks; sprayed-on fireproofing. Additional building components that are known to contain or may contain asbestos include wall and ceiling plaster; drywall joint compounds; fume hood linings; linoleum and vinyl floor tiles and associated mastics; and laboratory countertops.
Please distribute a copy of this letter to your faculty and/or staff. For information about asbestos-containing materials in specific buildings or mechanical room labeling, contact Safety and Environmental Affairs at 702-9999 or safety@uchicago.edu.