What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous material that was a popular building material from the 1950s to 1990s. It was used extensively, because it is an insulator, has good fire protection properties, has tensile strength, and is resistant to chemical erosion.
Unfortunately, breathing in asbestos fibers can cause cancer and other diseases, such as:
· Asbestosis : scarring of the lungs, which makes it difficult to breathe
· Mesothelioma : a rare cancer of the lining of the chest or abdominal cavity
· Lung cancer: smoking can greatly increase this risk
Though there are no significant health risks if materials containing asbestos in your home are:
· tightly bound in products and are in good condition
· sealed behind walls and floorboards
· isolated in an attic
· left undisturbed
You can be exposed to asbestos when a home or building is being renovated or demolished.
How can you check your home for Asbestos?
A visual inspection of your home is not a sufficient means to detect asbestos. It is wise to hire a professional to test for asbestos before doing any:
· renovations or remodeling
· demolitions
· additions
The person you hire should discuss the specific steps that must be taken to prepare the work area to make sure that:
· The dust is controlled
· The right personal protective clothing and equipment is used
· There is appropriate clean-up of the work area and waste removal
What If they Find Asbestos in My House?
The method used for dealing with asbestos in the home depends upon where the asbestos is found, the condition of the material, and whether it is friable or non-friable. Friable asbestos can be easily crumbled or reduced to a powder and can become airborne. Non-friable asbestos is more tightly bound with another material and its fibers cannot easily be made airborne unless they are sanded, cut, or sawed.
If asbestos-containing material is currently in good condition and contained such that fibers cannot be released, then it may not be dangerous at this time. However, the situation should be monitored for signs of asbestos deterioration and damage. In some cases, asbestos-containing materials may be repaired or isolated rather than removed. For example, small tears in pipe insulation may be repaired. Asbestos material that is in good condition may be isolated from potential damage by using a sturdy, airtight barrier. This can be a temporary solution to some asbestos problems, but only work well for asbestos-containing material that has not been damaged, however this method may do more harm than good if the material is deteriorating.
Asbestos removal is the only permanent solution to the problem of asbestos in the home. However, removal poses a high risk of fiber release if not done properly. Air samples should be taken after the work is completed to ensure the safety of the homeowner. During the removal process, the contractor should use a HEPA vacuum, approved respirators, and disposable clothing.
Can I remove asbestos from my home myself?
No, you should not. Asbestos fibers can easily become air borne, creating a risk of serious illness if proper precautions are not taken.
In many areas, there are strict regulations that define the procedures that must be used when working with different types of asbestos. Even if the work is to be done outdoors, these requirements must be followed.
