What is the primary goal of the Maryland Department of the Environment's asbestos program?

The primary goal of the Maryland Department of the Environment's asbestos program is to regulate and manage asbestos safety and compliance. This program is crucial because asbestos poses significant health risks when fibers become airborne and are inhaled. As a result, the program is designed to ensure that asbestos handling, removal, and disposal are conducted in a manner that protects public health and the environment.

Regulation involves establishing guidelines and standards for professionals who work with asbestos, ensuring that they are properly trained and equipped to minimize exposure to harmful fibers. Compliance measures include monitoring, inspections, and enforcement of laws related to asbestos management in both residential and commercial settings. This diligent oversight helps to prevent improper handling, which could lead to serious health issues such as asbestosis or mesothelioma among workers and the general population.

In contrast, promoting trade in asbestos materials, conducting market research, or developing new asbestos-containing products do not align with the program's mission of public health safeguarding and environmental protection. The focus is squarely on managing existing asbestos safely rather than facilitating its use.