Yale Art and Architecture Building Asbestos Management Revisited

Abstract

The Art and Architecture building, housing two major graduate schools, is a prominent structure on the Yale University campus. During construction in 1963, building overhead surfaces had been coated with a highly friable acoustical treatment containing chrysotile asbestos. Beginning in August 1974, levels of airborne fibers associated with material disturbance were measured and considered to be of concern. In December 1974, the asbestos-bearing ceiling material was removed. During the time preceding the removal project, significant effort was devoted to the control of asbestos contamination, reduction of exposures, and elimination of risk potential. This was the first known attempt at development of a comprehensive asbestos management program, now known as an operations and maintenance program. Although considered to be effective, the program was eventually judged to be inadequate to the task. This article presents the methods of control, the results of the management effort, and the eventual conclusion of the control program.