The Office of Environmental Health & Radiation Safety (EHRS) is responsible for the identification, inspection and control of asbestos containing materials on campus. As part of the University's asbestos management program, EHRS conducts asbestos inspections prior to all construction-related activities as well as periodic complete asbestos building inspections of all campus buildings. All inspections are conducted by EPA, City of Philadelphia, and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania certified/licensed asbestos building inspectors/investigators on EHRS staff. EHRS also coordinates asbestos removal contract work and conducts air monitoring and abatement project oversight on projects occurring in University-owned facilities.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly added to materials used for thermal insulation on pipes and boilers, fireproofing on structural beams, acoustical insulation on ceilings and walls, floor and ceiling tiles, fire doors and numerous other materials.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact Laura Peller at 215-898-1944 or send e-mail to lpeller@ehrs.upenn.edu.