Who must be trained and certified to perform asbestos-related work in Maryland?

In Maryland, individuals who are involved in asbestos-related work, such as asbestos removal, encapsulation, or inspection, must be properly trained and certified to ensure safety and compliance with health regulations. This requirement is primarily met by asbestos contractors and inspectors. These professionals are responsible for identifying asbestos-containing materials, conducting assessments, and overseeing remediation activities. Their training equips them with the knowledge of safe practices, regulatory requirements, and techniques necessary to handle materials containing asbestos without posing risks to themselves or the public.

Asbestos contractors must follow stringent regulations to safely manage and dispose of asbestos materials, while inspectors need specialized training to recognize the presence of asbestos and perform necessary assessments. Therefore, their certification is crucial for protecting both the workers' health and the community at large when asbestos-related work is involved.

Other professionals, such as environmental scientists, building architects, and construction workers, may work with or around asbestos, but they do not necessarily require the same level of specialized training and certification in the context of asbestos handling unless they are directly involved in asbestos operations or assessments. This delineation ensures that the most qualified individuals are responsible for managing and mitigating the risks associated with asbestos exposure.