The Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) is offering people a chance to learn more about dealing with building materials that might contain asbestos, ahead of an expanded screening program that will come into force later this month.
Asbestos, which is used to make heat and fire-resistant and soundproof materials, was phased out in Canada in the 1990s.
The SCRD has required screening and special handling of gypsum (drywall) and vermiculite since 2013. As of Sept. 19, the list will also include: ceiling tiles, cement board and cement panels (often known by the trade-name Transite), roofing, vinyl flooring (floor tile and sheet flooring with paper backing), stucco and textured ceilings and coatings.
Anyone delivering loads that contain any of those materials to a landfill will need to show asbestos testing results from an accredited laboratory.
When the program was outlined for SCRD directors at the June 2 infrastructure services committee meeting, Robyn Cooper, manager of solid waste services, said there is at least one firm on the Coast that can arrange testing.
At that same meeting, West Howe Sound director Ian Winn expressed concerns the new rules could lead to more illegal dumping by people trying to avoid extra costs. Cooper said prices vary depending on what needs testing and how fast the results are needed.
The Sechelt Landfill will take material that tests positive for asbestos – by appointment only – and the material needs to meet strict rules for bagging, sealing and labelling.
The SCRD is recommending that anyone planning a renovation or demolition project contact a qualified company that deals with asbestos, so they can determine what requires testing and conduct the testing.
SCRD will be hosting an information session Wednesday, Sept. 7 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Raven’s Cry Theatre in Sechelt.
