How do you become an Accredited Asbestos Worker or Supervisor?

Becoming an accredited asbestos worker or supervisor within the U.S. is regulated by the EPA under the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) and is often enforced as well at the state level.  Be prepared at the state level for the requirements to vary slightly by state, but the core pathway to obtaining an asbestos accreditation is consistent nationwide.

Steps to Become an Asbestos Worker or Asbestos Supervisor:

Most states require an individual to be:

• 18 years or older
• Physically capable of wearing a respirator and PPE

Step 1:  Training Requirement:

Individuals must complete the following asbestos training requirements:

• You must take an Initial Asbestos training course from an EPA-accredited provider
• A worker accreditation is 32 hours (4-days) of training offered in Spanish and English
• A supervisor accreditation is 40 hours (5-days) of training and only offered in English
• Classroom + hands-on instruction covering:
  • Health effects of asbestos exposure
  • OSHA and EPA regulations
  • Proper containment procedures
  • PPE and respirator use
  • Decontamination procedures
  • Waste handling and disposal
• Individuals must successfully complete training and receive a passing grade (typically 70% or higher)

Step 2:  Apply for State Accreditation:

After training, in many states, you still need to apply to be a worker before you can remove asbestos. Visit the state agency’s website to complete an application and submit payment.

• You can click here to select your state and research your state’s requirements.

Once you have successfully submitted your application and training certification, you will receive a card or license from your state.

Step 3:  Receive an Asbestos Physical: 

Lastly, you must ensure that you are able to perform the work and wear a respirator. Visit a health clinic and receive an Asbestos Physical and Fit test. These tests are OSHA-mandated health screenings, usually required annually, for workers exposed to airborne asbestos above permissible limits. The physical and tests involve medical history, pulmonary function tests (PFT), chest X-rays (every 5 years), and respirator fit testing to ensure safety and to prevent asbestos-related diseases.

Have Additional Questions About Becoming an Asbestos Worker or Asbestos Supervisor?

If you have additional questions about becoming an asbestos worker or asbestos supervisor, contact Cruitfly today. We're experts in environmental staffing, and we provide certified asbestos abatement contractors throughout the United States.