How To Become An Asbestos Abatement Contractor in California

Looking to become a certified Asbestos Contractor in California? Here are the steps you need to take to properly register and become certified to perform asbestos abatement in California. NOTE: You must already a licensed contractor in CA.
  1. Attend an accredited Asbestos Contractor/Supervisor training course, which is 5 days in length.
  2. Apply with California State License Board for Asbestos Certification: View Application ($75.00).
  3. Pass the CSLB Asbestos Abatement Exam: The examination can be scheduled as soon as 15 days from the acceptance of your CSLB application. A study guide for the examination is available from CSLB online at www.cslb.ca.gov or by calling the 24-hour automated phone system at (800) 321-CSLB (2752).
  4. Register with the Asbestos Contractor Registration Unit of DOSH (Cal/OSHA) - To register, you must provide proof of the following:
    1. Certification by the CSLB unless a public and private employer operating on their own premises.
    2. Health Insurance or a trust account of $500 per employee to cover the cost of medical examinations and monitoring (except for contractors without employees) 
    3. Worker's Compensation Insurance coverage. 
    4. Certified Supervisors who have the experience and authority to manage the asbestos removal process and who are OSHA competent persons. For most this means an initial Cal/OSHA-approved contractor/supervisor class lasting five days with a one-day refresher each year. 
    5. Worker training consisting of Cal/OSHA-approved initial and annual refresher courses in asbestos-removal. 
    6. Compliance with the applicable occupational safety and health standards
    7. Written asbestos removal operating policies and procedures 
    8. List of equipment necessary to perform such work
During the initial review process DOSH will check over your documentation, evaluate your compliance history, and review your proposed procedures. They may require additional explanations or procedure revisions if necessary. Once you pass their initial review process, you'll be issued a certificate of registration, which is valid for one year unless revoked. Check out Cal/OSHA's frequently asked questions for further information on the registration process.

Have additional questions on becoming a California asbestos contractor? Give us a call at 1-800-355-1751 and we'll be happy to assist you.