When Safety Isn’t Optional
It’s easy to assume your commercial building is safe just because it looks clean and functional. But behind the walls or above ceiling tiles, invisible hazards like asbestos and mold could be putting your employees and your business at serious risk. In both Georgia and South Carolina, failing to identify or manage these materials before renovation or occupancy isn’t just dangerous. It can be illegal.
Asbestos and mold regulations are designed to protect health, but they also protect you from costly fines, lawsuits, and shutdowns. Understanding these rules and acting before inspectors or employees raise concerns is the smart move for every property owner.
Georgia and South Carolina’s Asbestos Regulations
Both states follow federal rules under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The key standard for asbestos is the EPA’s National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP).
According to theEPA NESHAP Asbestos regulations, any demolition or renovation of a building built before 1980 must include a professional asbestos inspection performed by a certified inspector. The inspector determines whether asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are present and whether they will be disturbed during work.
In Georgia:
The Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) enforces NESHAP under the state’s Air Protection Branch. Businesses must:
- Conduct a certified asbestos inspection before demolition or renovation.
- Notify the EPD at least 10 working days before disturbing asbestos materials.
- Use only licensed asbestos abatement contractors for removal.
- Dispose of asbestos waste according to hazardous materials rules.
Failure to follow these steps can result in civil penalties or even criminal charges if exposure occurs due to negligence.
In South Carolina:
The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) enforces similar requirements. UnderDHEC Regulation 61-86.1, owners and operators must:
- Have all affected areas inspected by a licensed asbestos professional.
- Provide written notification before demolition or renovation.
- Ensure proper containment and air monitoring during removal.
If your property was built before 1980 or you’re unsure about past abatement work, the only safe path forward is to test before touching anything.
Mold: The Unregulated Risk That Still Gets Businesses Sued
Unlike asbestos, there are no specific federal or Georgia/South Carolina state laws limiting mold levels indoors. However, OSHA’s General Duty Clause requires every employer to maintain a safe working environment. If employees get sick due to indoor mold exposure, that clause applies.
According toOSHA’s Mold Guidelines, employers can face citations if mold growth is linked to unsafe maintenance practices, water intrusion, or poor ventilation. That means even without mold-specific laws, you can still be held liable for worker illness or lost productivity.
Common signs of a workplace mold problem include:
- Musty odors when the HVAC system starts
- Discoloration on walls, vents, or ceiling tiles
- Staff complaints of headaches, sinus congestion, or fatigue
- Past water leaks that weren’t professionally dried
In offices, schools, and manufacturing facilities, mold often grows silently inside ductwork, insulation, or under flooring. By the time someone notices, the contamination may already be widespread.
What Non-Compliance Can Cost You
Ignoring asbestos or mold issues isn’t just a health gamble, it’s a financial one.
- Fines: Both Georgia EPD and South Carolina DHEC can levy thousands in daily penalties for asbestos violations.
- Downtime: Remediation after an outbreak or exposure can shut down a facility for weeks.
- Lawsuits: Employees can pursue claims under OSHA’s General Duty Clause or state workplace safety laws.
- Reputation: A single public report of asbestos or mold contamination can devastate client trust.
The simplest way to avoid these risks is through certified testing and documentation proof that your property complies with all applicable health and environmental laws.
Why Professional Testing Is Worth It
A licensed testing service doesn’t just collect samples. Certified professionals:
- Identify the source and extent of potential contamination.
- Use industry-approved methods for air and material sampling.
- Provide detailed lab reports compliant with AIHA, IAC2, and OSHA standards.
- Offer guidance for safe abatement and moisture control.
Professional testing gives you legal protection and peace of mind, showing regulators, tenants, and insurers that you’ve taken all required precautions.
EnviroPro 360: Your Certified Partner in Compliance
At EnviroPro 360, we understand the complex environmental regulations that affect Georgia and South Carolina businesses. With over two decades of experience, we hold certifications from OSHA, IICRC, AIHA, IAC2, IAQA and we areACAC accredited ensuring every inspection meets the highest professional standards.
Whether you’re managing an office, school, or industrial facility, our experts provide:
- Asbestos Testing & Surveying before demolition or renovation.
- Mold Inspection & Air Quality Testing to detect hidden contamination.
- Leak Detection & Radon Testing for complete environmental safety.
We don’t just test, we help you build a safer, compliant workplace from the ground up.
Final Thoughts
A safe environment begins with compliance.
If you operate a business in Georgia or South Carolina, now is the time to confirm your building meets all asbestos and indoor air quality regulations.
Contact EnviroPro 360today to schedule your professional inspection and keep your employees, clients, and reputation protected.
