Asbestos ceiling tile presents a very different issue from floor tile because it is typically friable (see other thread on a definition for friable). While you can do this kind of work in your own home without fear of OSHA knocking at your door, it is, IMHO much more dangerous because of the increased risk of exposure to airborne particles and dust. There is the added problem of disposal. It cannot be disposed of legally as non-friable construction debris. If a contractor does this kind of work he is required to set up a containment area in the room and use "wet methods" for removal followed by a final air clearance. Bad news is it's pretty expensive (around $3 per square foot here in Michigan).
If you have asbestos ceiling tiles, I recommend that you have them taken out by a trained and licensed asbestos contractor unless you can be confident that they will come down without any breakage and you are willing to assume the risk of handling them.
While we're talking about ceiling tile, also note that if it is glued on, there is an even greater chance that the glue pods are asbestos than the tile. The good news is, it's non-friable and poses very little risk of becoming airborne.
Fortress Environmental Solutions
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