THE SENATE	S.R. NO.	95
THIRTIETH LEGISLATURE, 2020
STATE OF HAWAII

SENATE RESOLUTION

 

 

urging the department of health to amend its administrative rules to include single-family residences in the department's work practice standards and notification requirements for the demolition and RENOVATION of facilities containing asbestos.

 

 

     WHEREAS, asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral historically used in building construction for its fire- and sound-proofing properties; and

 

     WHEREAS, in the 1970s, the United States implemented a national ban on the use of asbestos in the construction of buildings and residences due to health risks associated with the material; and

 

     WHEREAS, when asbestos is handled or moved, its microscopic fragments can be inhaled and become lodged in the lungs and cause mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and other life-threatening conditions; and

 

     WHEREAS, despite the known health risks and the implementation of a national ban, it is believed that asbestos was used in the construction of single-family residences in Hawaii until at least the mid-1980s; and

 

     WHEREAS, although the Department of Health has developed work practice standards and notification requirements for the demolition and renovation of facilities, these standards and requirements do not apply to single-family residences; and

 

     WHEREAS, the lack of regulation surrounding the demolition and renovation of single-family residences containing asbestos leaves families and workers exposed to serious health risks; now, therefore,

 

     BE IT RESOLVED by the Senate of the Thirtieth Legislature of the State of Hawaii, Regular Session of 2020, that the Department of Health is urged to amend its administrative rules to include single-family residences in the department's work practice standards and notification requirements for the demolition and renovation of facilities containing asbestos; and

 

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a certified copy of this Resolution be transmitted to the Director of Health.

 

 

 

	OFFERED BY:	_____________________________

Report Title:

DOH; Asbestos; Administrative Rules