HB 333 Summary

• Directs the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities to develop statewide standards and operating procedures allowing use of gravel and aggregate materials containing naturally occurring asbestos in construction and maintenance of transportation projects and public facilities.

• Requires contractors and project managers to prepare and submit site-specific plans demonstrating compliance with department standards before using asbestos-containing materials; plans must address site investigations, health concerns, design specifications, and long-term maintenance practices.

• Defines gravel containing naturally occurring asbestos as materials with at least 0.25 percent asbestos by mass when tested using a bulk test method prescribed by the department.

• Provides liability immunity for persons supplying or using asbestos-containing materials when in compliance with department standards and operating procedures; limits liability for noncompliance to defendants with direct control or responsibility for compliance.

• Authorizes interim standards and operating procedures on a temporary basis (expiring December 31, 2011) and allows use of California Air Resources Board Method 435 for bulk testing until the department prescribes its own testing method.