Which organization oversees asbestos abatement standards in Maryland?

The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) is the organization responsible for overseeing asbestos abatement standards in Maryland. It plays a critical role in ensuring that asbestos removal and management practices comply with state regulations designed to protect public health and the environment. MDE establishes guidelines and enforces the regulations regarding asbestos handling, including training for workers involved in abatement processes and conducting inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards.

While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets federal regulations and guidelines for asbestos management, in Maryland, the MDE implements and enforces these regulations at the state level, adapting them as necessary to meet local needs. The National Safety Council focuses more broadly on safety-related training and advocacy rather than specifically on asbestos abatement. The State Department of Health handles public health concerns but does not directly oversee asbestos abatement standards, making MDE the primary authority in this area.