At which percentage does material contain enough asbestos to be classified as asbestos-containing?

Material is classified as asbestos-containing when it contains 1% or more of asbestos. This threshold is based on guidelines established by various regulatory agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). These organizations have determined that materials with asbestos content equal to or greater than 1% can pose significant health risks and, therefore, require specific handling procedures to prevent exposure.

The 1% threshold is important because it helps in the identification and management of asbestos in building materials, ensuring that appropriate safety measures are implemented during maintenance or demolition activities. Understanding this percentage is crucial for site surveillance technicians, who monitor asbestos presence to protect public health and ensure compliance with safety regulations.