Which Act requires accredited personnel for handling asbestos in buildings?

The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) specifically mandates that school districts and other public and commercial buildings that contain asbestos must have trained and accredited personnel to manage asbestos-related activities. This includes the inspection, management, and removal of asbestos-containing materials. The act was established to protect public health by ensuring that individuals who handle asbestos are trained to recognize the hazards and properly manage them according to established safety protocols.

The effectiveness of AHERA lies in its thorough requirements for training and accreditation, which are critical for ensuring that personnel can mitigate the risks associated with asbestos exposure. By having properly trained staff, the likelihood of asbestos-related health issues is significantly reduced, thereby promoting safety in environments where asbestos may be present.