Asbestos, Training Fires & Controlled Burns

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Air Quality
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Asbestos

Building renovations, demolitions and training fires are potentially subject to asbestos release prevention efforts. Often these rules require a thorough inspection and lab analysis of suspect asbestos containing material, notification to the DNR and in some cases, proper removal and disposal.

Contractor Certification Permits

Any business or individual compensated to remove asbestos containing materials is required by the Iowa Division of Labor Services to obtain a certified asbestos contractor permit. Call 515-281-6175 for details or visit Division of Labor Services website.

Guidance

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Online Asbestos Notification System

Knock out your Asbestos Notification in no time! The online asbestos notification system has everything you need for abatement, demolition, and renovation work -- available at your fingertips 24/7. Benefits and features include:

  • Immediate confirmation after notification received
  • Simple revisions and cancellations
  • Tailored to your needs – addresses each type of notification
  • Online video training available
  • Built-in help
  • At your pace, pause as needed

Login to the Asbestos Notification System now to create your secure account, provide notice and pay fees for new notifications. Please continue using paper process for notifications originally mailed to DNR.

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Asbestos Staff

Contact a member of our asbestos staff for information or questions.

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Training Fires & Controlled Burns

Full time and volunteer firefighters risk their lives to protect Iowans and property. These highly trained professionals care deeply about safety. And they must be extremely cautious to protect themselves and fellow firefighters.

Firefighters are at risk for asbestos related illness from asphalt shingles, mastic, floor tile, insulation and dozens of common items that can contain asbestos. While fiber release during and after unintentional fires is unavoidable, asbestos emissions during training fires is unlawful and needlessly exposes firefighters and the public.

City governments that order building demolitions, approve training fires and oversee fire departments need to be aware that intentional fires are considered a demolition. This includes single, private homes used for training fires. Thorough inspections by certified personnel, proper asbestos notifications and proper removal and disposal are required before burning occurs.

If all layers of roofing materials at a training fire site test negative for asbestos, the materials can be burned. Fire departments are limited to burning asbestos-free shingles during two training fires annually. Due to the heavy smoke released, it is highly preferred that no asphalt materials be burned. If more than two training fires occur, no roofing materials can be burned.

Guidance

Technical Information

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Asbestos & Burn Forms

Please send completed forms to:

Air Quality Bureau
ATTN: Tom Wuehr
6200 Park Ave Suite 200
Des Moines, IA 50321

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