What significant change did ASHARA introduce in 1994?

The significant change introduced by the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (ASHARA) in 1994 was the expansion of regulations to include public and commercial buildings. Prior to ASHARA, regulations primarily focused on schools, which were governed by the original Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act of 1986. The addition of public and commercial buildings meant that the need for asbestos abatement and safety measures extended beyond educational institutions, recognizing that many other buildings housed similar risks.

This change was crucial in protecting a larger segment of the population from the dangers of asbestos exposure. By bringing public and commercial buildings under regulation, the act aimed to ensure that proper asbestos handling, removal, and training protocols were established across more facilities. This allowed for greater oversight and enforcement in managing asbestos hazards in various environments, contributing significantly to public health and safety initiatives.