An increase in asbestos removal violations by condo owners has the state Department of Health worried that many building or apartment owners are unaware of state and federal regulations regarding the potentially hazardous material.

There were five violations relating to the improper handling of asbestos material during renovation work over the last 12-month period, from September 2005 to September 2006, according to the health department. That's high compared to the previous year when the department issued only one violation, said Tom Lileikis, environmental health specialist with the department's Radiation and Indoor Air Quality Branch.

The increase in violations could be attributed to a high volume of renovations and the lack of awareness by condominium owners that there are strict state and federal guidelines for properly removing the material. Prolonged exposure to asbestos has been linked to several serious diseases, including chest and abdominal cancers and lung diseases.

"We're trying to do an outreach project with all residential property agents in the state and trying to reinforce that there are these rules out there and they should have a stake in the health and safety of their tenants," Lileikis said.

Condominiums are considered regulated facilities under the state's administrative rules. Owners are required to use certified inspectors and contractors when handling the material, among other rules.

Kukui Awana, project manager with 'Aina Environmental Group, a private company certified to handle asbestos, said most people generally don't know they may be dealing with asbestos until after they begin renovating. Even then they may not know that they are supposed to hire a certified contractor to remove the material.

"The rules are fairly straightforward, but most homeowners just aren't aware of them," he said.

Awana said asbestos removal usually costs "more than the homeowner would prefer," which can sometimes lead to illegal handling of material.

Building owners who illegally handle, remove and dispose of asbestos could face up to $10,000 in fines per day of violation, Lileikis said. The amount of fines depends on the severity of the incident, he said.

The health department will also provide information and assistance to those who may need help finding contractors to properly handle and dispose of asbestos, Lileikis said.

Most buildings built before the 1980s have some asbestos-containing materials, but they do not pose a health threat if left in place in good condition, Lileikis said. Regulations protect public health during renovation and demolition, which can disturb asbestos-containing materials and lead to unnecessary exposure.

Reach Loren Moreno at lmoreno@honoluluadvertiser.com.