Given the increasing volume of “do-it-yourself” home renovation waste across the region, the Capital Regional District has launched a new awareness campaign to educate homeowners about the health risks associated with asbestos and promote the safe removal and disposal of renovation waste.
“Exposure to asbestos and other hazards pose a real risk to families across the region who choose to take on home renovations themselves,” Judy Brownoff, a CRD director and chair of the region’s environmental services committee said.
“In an effort to protect these residents as well as our staff and visitors at Hartland Landfill, we’re asking homeowners to hire qualified professionals to test for asbestos and remove it safely.”
Prior to 1990, asbestos – a mineral fibre resistant to fire, heat and electricity – was used in thousands of building products, including vinyl flooring, plaster, ceiling tiles and stucco.
There is little risk when it’s left in place, but disturbing asbestos during a demolition or renovation can lead to the inhalation of its fibres, a known cause of lung scarring and cancer.
Hartland accepts properly packaged asbestos for disposal by appointment only. As of March 31, all renovation waste must be pre-approved for disposal.
To get pre-approved, residents must complete an online application at www.crd.bc.ca/renowaste and provide asbestos-free test results. This process mirrors the existing commercial procedure that complies with WorkSafeBC regulations.
Protecting the safety of residents – including within CRD-operated facilities – is the priority of this campaign. As Hartland Landfill also accepts asbestos waste from outside the region, the CRD will make these new educational materials available to municipalities across the Island.