Removing or Moving Ceiling Tiles and Panels

Does MDH regulate removing or moving ceiling tiles or panels for equipment or cable installation?

Yes. Removing friable ceiling tiles or panels from a facility or moving them for installation of equipment, cables, etc. is regulated as asbestos-related work (ARW) by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) when:

• the ceiling tiles or panels contain more than one percent asbestos; or
• the ceiling tiles or panels do not contain asbestos, but friable asbestos-containing material (ACM) has accumulated on top of them from the degradation of other ACM such as fireproofing or pipe insulation above the tiles or panels. 
  (This ACM, which has accumulated above the tiles or panels to be moved, would need to be estimated in cubic feet.)

AND

• the total amount of all friable ACM to be disturbed during the project or in the facility during the calendar year is greater than 260 linear feet, 160 square feet or 35 cubic feet.

If the project is regulated by MDH, then:

• the work must be performed by a licensed asbestos abatement contractor, and
• all the work practices in Minnesota Rules, parts 4620.3000 to 4620.3598 must be followed.

What if the ceiling tiles or panels are being moved for maintenance purposes?

Ceiling tiles or panels in a facility being moved to perform maintenance work on or around a mechanical system or machinery is still considered regulated as ARW by MDH under the same conditions listed above.

How do I find out more information?

For more information about asbestos, contact the Asbestos Program at MDH through the internet or by telephone at (651) 201-4620.