Annual Notification for Asbestos and AEDs
Asbestos:
Each year Cal Poly Humboldt employees are notified of the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) in campus buildings pursuant to the requirements of the California Health and Safety Code §25915.
The University continues to survey locations for the presence of asbestos-containing material as the need arises and known locations of asbestos-containing materials are routinely inspected to ensure the integrity of the material. Asbestos fibers are commonly found in thermal system insulation, fireproofing and fire doors, roofing materials, floor tiles, laboratory bench tops, spray-on acoustic insulation, mastics, and various other materials.
The Environmental Protection Agency also has established a designation for presumed asbestos-containing materials (PACM). All floor tile, mastic, thermal system insulation and surfacing materials in buildings constructed prior to 1981 are presumed to contain asbestos unless sampling and analysis refutes the classification.
Asbestos fibers are only a health hazard if they become airborne in sufficient numbers. Since asbestos is only a hazard if airborne, it is important for employees to follow proper work practices to minimize the potential for disturbing the materials and releasing fibers into the air. In particular, avoid disturbing asbestos materials on walls, ceilings, pipes or in equipment. Do not break, drill or remove anything that may be considered PACM. If you have any questions about identifying a material as PACM, contact EH&S before you disturb the material(s).
If you observe any potential asbestos containing materials that have been damaged, report the condition immediately to your supervisor or EH&S (ext. 3302). Do not disturb damaged asbestos debris or materials. Only persons who have been trained and certified are authorized to perform work that may disturb asbestos fibers.
Asbestos survey data showing many, but not all, specific locations known to contain asbestos is located at Facilities Management; any employee may review this survey data during normal business hours by contacting (ext. 3646).
AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators):
According to the American Heart Association’s 2022 update on cardiovascular health, instances of out-of-hospital Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) continue to rise in the United States coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic, and disproportionately affect vulnerable populations and communities of color. Cal Poly Humboldt strives to increase survivability for those suffering from SCA by spreading awareness and broadening public access to Automated External Defibrillator (AED) devices on campus. These devices are intended to provide a lifesaving bridge during the critical minutes between the onset of SCA and the arrival of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel.
Cal Poly Humboldt currently maintains AEDs at the locations identified here. Additional information on the AED program can be found here. Training can be found:
Click here for basic, step-by-step instruction on AED operation from the American Red Cross.