For information on lead-based paint and other lead poisoning issues visit the Illinois Lead Program website.

Asbestos was once a commonly used building material because it is not affected by heat or chemicals and does not conduct electricity. Now, however, it is considered a serious indoor pollutant with links to such serious respiratory diseases as asbestosis and lung cancer. Large amounts of asbestos were used in Illinois schools for decades. In the mid 1980s, newly enacted state and federal legislation required that state schools be inspected for asbestos and that plans for its management be developed. The legislation also specified that individuals who work to manage or abate asbestos in elementary and secondary schools be licensed. More recently enacted legislation regulates people who perform asbestos-related activities in commercial and public buildings and requires that such activities be carried out in a safe manner. Implementing these laws, the Division of Environmental Health has established licensing criteria for contractors, inspectors, management planners, project designers, project managers, supervisors, workers and air sampling professionals. More than 10,000 people are licensed each year. Division staff also review management plans for elementary and secondary school facilities and inspect abatement projects to ensure compliance with state and federal laws.