Did you know that asbestos-related diseases kill more than 39,000 people in the U.S. each year? If you’re in the business of home remodeling and renovations, understanding what asbestos is and how to handle it safely is especially important. You may find it hidden in old structures, and disturbing it without knowing can be hazardous for your team.
In this blog post, you’ll learn about asbestos identification, its associated health dangers, and the best practices for safe removal. Read on to ensure your projects are both successful and secure.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a natural mineral once prized for its fire resistance and insulation. Builders used it in many materials, including insulation, floor tiles, and roofing. Its durability and heat resistance made it popular, but we now know it’s dangerous. Some of the health risks associated with asbestos include:
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and abdomen. Contractors can get exposed while removing or disturbing asbestos-containing materials.
Lung Cancer
Asbestos exposure increases the risk of lung cancer. Renovation activities like drilling or cutting can release harmful fibers into the air.
Asbestosis
Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by inhaling fibers of this mineral. The symptoms include shortness of breath and persistent cough. Handling asbestos materials daily can lead to this condition.
Identifying Asbestos in Older Buildings
When working with older buildings, it’s important to be vigilant about the presence of asbestos. Look out for these visual signs that might suggest asbestos-containing materials:
- Crumbling pipe insulation
- Discolored ceiling tiles
- Worn-out vinyl floor tiles
- Aging cement sheets and roofing
Expert testing and inspection are essential for accurate asbestos identification. Certified AHERA professionals can perform comprehensive asbestos detection services using specialized equipment and provide detailed surveys about the presence of this mineral.
Managing and Removing Asbestos Safely
Once you’ve completed asbestos hazard identification in a property, here’s how to manage it safely:
1) Develop a Management Plan
Create a detailed plan outlining how you’ll safely manage or remove the asbestos. The plan should include timelines, safety procedures, and compliance with local regulations to ensure proper handling.
2) Hire Qualified Professionals
Engage accredited asbestos removal professionals to handle the process. Do not attempt to remove asbestos yourself.
3) Containment
Use barriers and containment methods to prevent the spread of asbestos fibers during removal. This could involve sealing off work areas with plastic sheeting and using negative air pressure machines to keep fibers from escaping.
4) Removal
Follow strict guidelines to remove asbestos materials carefully to ensure no fibers escape the environment. Workers should wear protective clothing and respirators and wet the asbestos materials to reduce dust.
5) Disposal
Transport and dispose of asbestos waste at designated facilities that handle hazardous materials safely. Ensure all asbestos waste is double-bagged and labeled according to hazardous waste protocols.
Stay Safe with Payneless Industries
At Payneless Industries, we know that discovering asbestos during a renovation can be a real headache. It brings unexpected risks, delays, and costs. That’s why we’re here to help with expert asbestos detection services to help you manage these challenges smoothly.
Avoid putting yourself and others in danger. Our accredited AHERA team provides expert guidance and thorough inspections to ensure your projects are safe and compliant. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help!