Thank you for Subscribing to Construction Business Review Weekly Brief
Asbestos Abatement at the Heart of Canadian Renovation
Construction Business Review | Monday, July 21, 2025
The asbestos removal services industry in Canada operates within a highly regulated and evolving landscape, driven by the enduring legacy of asbestos use in construction and industrial applications. Despite a comprehensive ban on the import, sale, and use of asbestos and asbestos-containing products enacted in 2018, the presence of this hazardous material in numerous older structures ensures a sustained demand for specialized abatement services nationwide.
Canada was a significant producer and exporter of asbestos, particularly chrysotile, which was widely incorporated into building materials, insulation, and various industrial products due to its fire-resistant and insulating properties, as well as its tensile strength. This extensive historical use means that a substantial inventory of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) remains embedded within Canada's built environment, particularly in buildings constructed before the 1990s. The long latency period for asbestos-related diseases, coupled with increasing public awareness of the associated health risks, underscores the industry's critical commitment to safe and professional asbestos management.
Stay ahead of the industry with exclusive feature stories on the top companies, expert insights and the latest news delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe today.
The industry is primarily focused on identifying, containing, and removing ACMs from residential, commercial, and industrial properties. This work is not only highly specialized but also deeply committed to adhering to stringent safety protocols. This commitment ensures the prevention of the release of airborne asbestos fibers, which can pose severe health hazards upon inhalation. The nature of asbestos, which cannot be identified by sight alone, necessitates professional testing and surveying before any removal work can commence.
Regulatory Framework and Operational Standards
Regulation is the cornerstone of the asbestos removal industry in Canada. Both federal and provincial/territorial governments have established comprehensive frameworks to govern asbestos abatement activities. At the federal level, the Prohibition of Asbestos and Products Containing Asbestos Regulations came into force in 2018, significantly tightening controls. Furthermore, Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) has its own robust Asbestos Management Standard for federal buildings, mandating the maintenance of asbestos management plans, regular reassessments of ACMs, and strict procedures for abatement.
Provincially and territorially, regulations vary but generally align in their core objectives: protecting workers and the public from asbestos exposure. These regulations typically categorize asbestos work into different "types" based on the level of risk involved, from low-risk operations like minor, non-friable material removal to high-risk operations involving friable asbestos or large-scale disturbances. Each type dictates specific procedures, personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, containment strategies, and training certifications. For instance, many jurisdictions require workers and supervisors performing higher-risk asbestos abatement work to hold specific certifications, while even lower-risk operations necessitate asbestos awareness training.
A key element of these regulatory frameworks is the requirement for Asbestos Management Plans (AMPs) for buildings containing ACMs. These plans typically include an inventory of asbestos locations, quantities, and conditions, along with procedures for control, communication, and training of workers. Annual reassessments by qualified persons are often mandated to monitor the condition of ACMs and update the management plan.
Abatement Process and Market Dynamics
The operational process within the industry begins with an asbestos survey and testing conducted by qualified professionals to accurately identify the presence, type, and condition of asbestos. Following identification, a detailed abatement plan is developed, outlining the scope of work, containment measures, air monitoring strategies, and disposal procedures. Containment is a critical aspect, often involving the establishment of negative pressure enclosures using specialized equipment with High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters to prevent fiber release. Workers wear appropriate respiratory protection and disposable protective clothing. Once the removal is complete, thorough cleaning, often involving wet cleaning and HEPA vacuuming, is performed, followed by clearance air sampling to ensure the area is safe for re-occupancy. The safe disposal of asbestos waste in designated landfills is also a tightly regulated aspect of the process.
Future Outlook
The market for asbestos removal services in Canada remains robust. The ongoing need to address the legacy asbestos in an aging infrastructure, coupled with continuous renovation and demolition activities across the residential, commercial, and institutional sectors, drives demand. Increased awareness among property owners, developers, and the public about the health implications of asbestos exposure further fuels the need for professional services. The industry's emphasis on regulatory compliance and the severe penalties for non-compliance ensure that property owners seek out qualified and certified abatement professionals, maintaining the highest professional standards in the industry.
The asbestos removal industry in Canada is expected to see sustained activity. While new construction is mainly free of asbestos due to the ban, the sheer volume of existing buildings containing ACMs guarantees a long-term demand for remediation. The industry will continue to be shaped by evolving regulatory standards, advancements in abatement technologies, and a persistent focus on worker safety and public health protection. The ongoing reevaluation and update of provincial and federal regulations will continue to refine professional standards and practices, ensuring the safe and effective management of asbestos nationwide. The industry's emphasis on prevention through awareness, coupled with rigorous professional standards for removal, defines its current and future trajectory in protecting public health from the dangers of asbestos exposure.
More in News
The need for apartment and condominium construction has seen a notable rise in recent years, influenced by several global trends and socioeconomic factors. Contractors focused on multi-family housing projects are experiencing considerable growth as urbanization accelerates, concerns about housing affordability increase, and there is a heightened emphasis on sustainability in construction. Several key factors are driving this worldwide expansion, affecting both the demand for and the strategies behind apartment and condominium development. The swift urbanization happening in many regions globally is a major contributor to this construction surge.
The trend is particularly evident in developing economies where rapid industrialization draws people to cities searching for jobs and better living conditions. Contractors specializing in apartment and condominium projects are seizing this opportunity to build high-density residential units to accommodate the influx of city dwellers. Cities are experiencing similar pressures, albeit driven by shrinking available land and high demand for housing in metropolitan centers. The growth of apartment and condominium contractors is increasing demand for affordable housing solutions. The rise of certifications pushes contractors to adopt more sustainable practices in apartment and condominium construction.
Homeownership rates have declined in several countries due to rising real estate prices, stagnant wages, and shifting lifestyle preferences. These demographics prefer flexible living arrangements, proximity to urban centers, and lower maintenance responsibilities. ...Read more
Choosing the right flooring is crucial for business buildings, as it significantly affects aesthetics and functionality. Among the many available options, concrete floors have become a versatile and popular choice for various commercial applications. Concrete floors offer numerous advantages and are suitable for retail stores, commercial buildings, and industrial environments.
major advantages of concrete floors in commercial spaces:
Maintenance ease: Maintaining cleanliness in a commercial setting is crucial for aesthetics and safety. Regular sweeping and moist mopping are usually sufficient to maintain concrete floors in good condition. This ease of maintenance leads to long-term cost savings because less time and resources are spent on upkeep.
Durability with heavy foot traffic: Another major reason company owners like concrete flooring is their outstanding durability, particularly in high-traffic areas. Commercial spaces such as retail establishments and industrial settings often experience high foot traffic. Concrete floors can resist such wear and tear, making them an excellent choice for long-term flooring.
Versatility in design: Modern concrete floors, unlike bare surfaces, offer diverse options, and Bilt provides customized flooring solutions for commercial projects. The company was awarded the Commercial Flooring Excellence Award by PropTech Outlook for innovative polishing techniques and decorative coatings that enhance aesthetics and functionality.
Long lifespan: Concrete floors meet the demand for long-lasting flooring in commercial buildings. Concrete floors have a long lifespan and show little deterioration even after extended periods of use, making them an affordable flooring option for business owners seeking longevity and durability.
Energy efficiency: Concrete floors improve energy efficiency, particularly in terms of heating and cooling costs. Concrete's high thermal mass helps to moderate temperature changes by absorbing heat during the day and releasing it at night. This intrinsic energy efficiency has the potential to reduce long-term energy costs.
Minimal maintenance requirements: Unlike traditional flooring materials, which may exhibit signs of wear over time, concrete floors retain their integrity with minimal care. They require fewer costly replacements or repairs because of their resistance to stains, dents, and scratches. This makes them an excellent flooring choice for busy business settings.
Economical flooring option: Given their extended lifespan, low maintenance requirements, and energy efficiency, concrete floors are an affordable flooring option for commercial environments. The upfront cost of installing concrete is often offset by savings in maintenance and the flooring's durability. ...Read more
The construction industry in Europe is not just adapting to climate change; it is leading the way in sustainability. Faced with the escalating impacts of climate change and increasingly stringent regulations aimed at achieving climate neutrality, the sector has taken the lead. Once a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion, it is now at the forefront of efforts to adapt and mitigate its environmental footprint, a fact that should make us all proud and supportive of its endeavours.
The Alarming Impact of Climate Change on Europe's Built Environment
Europe is facing significant challenges due to climate change, affecting the design, construction, and maintenance of buildings and infrastructure. Extreme weather events, rising temperatures, and increasing energy demand pose threats to existing structures. The construction industry must design buildings with reduced energy consumption, adopt passive cooling strategies, and integrate smart building technologies to achieve sustainable development. A key aspect of this shift is the increasing importance of sustainable materials. Climate change also exacerbates resource scarcity, prompting the industry to shift towards sustainable materials. This shift is not just a trend, but a necessity. Coastal areas face increased risks from rising sea levels and erosion, necessitating the implementation of adaptive measures, such as nature-based solutions.
Evolving Regulations and Policy Frameworks
The European Union is implementing a comprehensive regulatory framework to address climate change in the construction sector. Key initiatives include the European Climate Law, which aims for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050; the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), a pioneering regulation that mandates all new buildings to be zero-emission by 2030; Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS); and the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED). The EED sets an energy efficiency target of 11.7 per cent for 2030. The EU Taxonomy Regulation defines criteria for environmentally sustainable economic activities, including construction, to increase transparency in sustainable finance. The Circular Economy Action Plan targets the sector for circularity, promoting disassembly and reuse, waste reduction, and recycling. The Nature Restoration Law aims to increase green spaces in urban areas.
Shifting Construction Practices
European construction practices are undergoing rapid evolution due to climate change and regulatory pressures. A significant part of this evolution is the industry's commitment to energy efficiency and passive design. Buildings are being designed to withstand extreme weather, incorporating stronger structural elements, elevated foundations, improved drainage systems, and materials with higher resistance to fire and heat. High-performance building envelopes, passive cooling and heating strategies, and efficient HVAC systems are now the norm, reflecting the industry's dedication to reducing its carbon footprint. Sustainable materials, including mass timber, low-carbon concrete, recycled materials, and bio-based materials, are being utilised. The industry is moving away from a linear "take, make, dispose" model, focusing on circular economy principles, waste reduction, and digitalisation. Green building certifications are also being used to assess environmental performance.
Continued collaboration between policymakers, industry, researchers, and financial institutions is essential. Incentives for green building practices, investment in research and development of innovative materials, and upskilling the workforce will be key to ensuring Europe's built environment becomes truly climate-neutral and resilient in the face of a changing world. The momentum is undeniable, and Europe is not just setting, but also significantly influencing, a global precedent for sustainable and adaptive construction. ...Read more
Traditionally used mainly for commercial applications, metal roofs are now among the most rapidly expanding roofing options for residential and commercial properties. An increasing number of homeowners are investing in metal roofing for their residences, and the growing appeal of metal roofing is becoming clear as more people discover its numerous benefits.
Metal roof benefits
Long-lasting: Metal roofing is highly praised for its lifespan, surpassing traditional asphalt shingles. When installed and maintained properly, a standard metal roof can endure for 25 to 50 years. Premium metal roofing options like field-locked standing seam or aluminum shingles can extend the lifespan to over 50 years, and zinc or copper roofs can last for well over a century.
Lightweight: Modern metal roofing materials are significantly lighter than traditional roofing materials. Conventional roofing materials like concrete tiles weigh around 900 pounds per square, while metal tiles weigh between 50 and 150 pounds per square. The lightweight nature of metal makes the installation process easier and can result in cost savings on engineering and building the supporting structure.
Fast and easy installation: Metal roofing offers advantages such as quick installation and ease of handling, which are essential to consider. The dimensions, weight, and size of metal roofing materials make them convenient to work with.
Minimum roof pitch: A metal roof can be installed on a low-slope structure, which can be more cost-effective because it requires fewer roofing materials than a steep slope. Additionally, standing-seam roofing can be utilized on roof pitches as low as 1-in-12 or 2-in-12.
Rain and snow shedding: Metal roofs have many benefits for people living in snowy or rainy regions. The smooth surface prevents snow and water buildup, especially with dark colors or a PVDF coating. Dark roofs help melt snow, while the coating reflects sunlight for better HVAC efficiency. Easy snow slide-off is a valuable advantage in snowy areas, reducing strain on the structure.
Moss and fungus proof: Wood and asphalt shingle roofs have a shorter lifespan due to their susceptibility to mildew, moss, and fungus. On the other hand, metal roofs are resistant to fungal attacks and also provide protection against rodents, pests, raccoons, and wild animals, preventing them from accessing the attic.
Fire resistant
Metal roofing is ideal for wildfire-prone areas due to its exceptional fire resistance, making it crucial for safeguarding homes during catastrophic incidents. Additionally, metal roofs do not attract lightning, debunking a common misconception. Overall, metal roofing is one of the most fire-resistant choices available. ...Read more
