Asbestos in Hawaii

Hawaii's volcanic geology presents unique challenges with naturally occurring asbestos (NOA), while its history of construction and military presence also led to asbestos use in buildings and ships.

The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) recognizes the potential health risks associated with asbestos exposure and provides guidance on identifying, managing, and mitigating these risks. We offer information for residents concerned about past or potential asbestos exposure in Hawaii. Learn about the health consequences, available resources, and steps to take if you suspect asbestos in your home or workplace.

Known Asbestos Job Sites in Hawaii

Explore 141 known asbestos sites and job-sites across Hawaii.

Job Site	City	State
Alexander & Baldwin	Kahului	HI
Alexander & Baldwin	Honolulu	HI
Alexander Young Building	Honolulu	HI
Aloha State Sales	Honolulu	HI
American Factors	Honolulu	HI
American Sanitary Laundry	Honolulu	HI
Associated Insulation	Honolulu	HI
Associated Mason	Honolulu	HI
Bechtel	Honolulu	HI
California & Hawaiian Sugar	Aiea	HI
California Packing	Honolulu	HI
Canada France Hawaii Telescope	Hilo	HI
Castle & Cooke	Honolulu	HI
C. Brewer & Company	Honolulu	HI
C & C	Hilo	HI

Occupations with High Asbestos Exposure in Hawaii

Construction Workers: Asbestos was commonly used in building materials, putting construction workers involved in renovation or demolition at risk.
Shipyard Workers: Hawaii's naval shipyards, especially during periods of high activity like World War II, utilized asbestos extensively in shipbuilding.
Military Personnel: Veterans who served in Hawaii, particularly those who worked on ships or in construction roles, may have been exposed to asbestos.
Mechanics: Asbestos was used in brake pads, gaskets, and other automotive parts, potentially exposing mechanics.

Hawaii Asbestos Regulations and Laws

Hawaii has adopted federal regulations and implemented state-specific laws to protect workers and the public from asbestos exposure. Key agencies and regulations include:

Hawaii Department of Health (DOH)

The DOH oversees asbestos-related issues in Hawaii, providing guidance and enforcement on:

Asbestos abatement: Licensing of contractors, project notification requirements, and proper disposal procedures.
Air quality: Monitoring and controlling asbestos fibers released during construction and demolition activities.
Public awareness: Educating the public about the dangers of asbestos and how to identify and manage it safely.

Hawaii Occupational Safety and Health (HIOSH)

HIOSH enforces workplace safety regulations, including those related to asbestos exposure. These regulations cover:

Permissible exposure limits (PELs): Setting limits on the amount of asbestos fibers workers can be exposed to.
Worker protection: Requiring employers to provide respiratory protection, protective clothing, and training for workers handling asbestos.
Asbestos abatement procedures: Establishing safe work practices for asbestos removal and disposal.

Key Laws and Regulations

Hawaii Administrative Rules, Title 11, Chapter 60.5: This chapter outlines regulations for asbestos abatement projects, including licensing, notification, work practices, and disposal.
Hawaii Revised Statutes, Chapter 396: This chapter addresses occupational safety and health, incorporating federal OSHA standards related to asbestos.

Sources

Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) - Asbestos: https://health.hawaii.gov/irhb/asbestos/
Hawaii Occupational Safety and Health (HIOSH): https://labor.hawaii.gov/hiosh/
Hawaii Administrative Rules, Title 11, Chapter 60.5: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dar/files/2014/05/ch60.5.pdf
Hawaii Revised Statutes, Chapter 396: https://labor.hawaii.gov/hiosh/files/2012/12/12-57-Discrimination-Against-Employees-Exercising-Rights-under-Chapter-396-Hawaii-Revised-Statutes.pdf

Were You Harmed by Asbestos Exposure in Hawaii?

If you or a loved one is sick or passed away due to asbestos, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation. Hawaii law protects victims of asbestos exposure. We can assist you in understanding your legal options.