Each year SDSU employees are notified of the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) in campus buildings pursuant to the requirements of the California Health and Safety Code Section 25915. 

The University continues to survey locations for the presence of asbestos-containing material and known locations of asbestos-containing materials are routinely inspected to ensure the integrity of the material. 

About asbestos

Asbestos fibers are commonly found in:

• Thermal system insulation

• Fireproofing and fire doors

• Roofing materials

• Floor tiles

• Laboratory benchtops

• Spray-on acoustic insulation

• Mastics

The Environmental Protection Agency also has established a designation for presumed asbestos-containing materials (PACM).  All floor tile, mastic, thermal system insulation and surfacing materials in buildings constructed prior to 1981 are presumed to contain asbestos unless sampling and analysis refutes the classification.  SDSU presumes that all these materials are PACM. 

Asbestos fibers are only a health hazard if they become airborne in sufficient numbers.  Since asbestos is only a hazard if airborne, it is important for employees to follow proper work practices to minimize the potential for disturbing the materials and releasing fibers. 

 In particular, avoid touching asbestos materials on walls, ceilings, pipes or in equipment.  Do not break, drill or remove floor tiles.  Do not place holes or hang plants or other objects from walls or ceilings containing or presumed to contain asbestos. 

If you observe any asbestos materials that have been damaged, report the condition immediately to your supervisor or Environmental Health and Safety.  Do not disturb damaged asbestos debris or materials. Only persons who have been trained are authorized to perform work that may disturb asbestos fibers.

Listing of asbestos locations

A listing of specific locations known to contain asbestos is available here (PDF) and on the Environmental Health and Safety at: http://bfa.sdsu.edu/ehs/asbestos.htm.

Data are available during normal business hours at the Department of Environmental Health and Safety located in the Chemical Sciences Laboratory, Room 106. 

For more information

To request additional information, contact the asbestos coordinator in Environmental Health and Safety at 619-594-6778.