How to Identify Asbestos
Over the course of the last century asbestos was used in a variety of products, to make them more durable, fire resistant and less expensive. Exposure to asbestos fibers within the air can lead to lung diseases like asbestosis or mesothelioma.
Some of these diseases can be chronically latent. This means it is difficult for people to spot the problem before it's too late.
Identifying Asbestos
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that were previously used in building materials since they are fireproof and corrosion resistant, as well as insulation. It can, however, create health risks if the microscopic fibers inhaled. This can lead to diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma. The symptoms of these diseases don't appear until several years, or decades after the initial exposure. They're often misinterpreted as flu-like symptoms. It is essential that people know how to identify the asbestos.
The most commonly used method to detect asbestos is via medical tests that look for lung diseases. The tests typically consist of physical examinations or chest Xrays as well as tests for pulmonary function. However, asbestos-related illnesses aren't identified by these tests alone, as they must be paired with a thorough medical history which includes a thorough examination of a person's home, work and the cultural context.
It is possible to detect asbestos in a vast range of building materials and materials such as cement floor tiles, paints adhesives, Artex, insulation, doors, partitions, and cladding. Asbestos is difficult for people to detect because the fibers are small and light. They are able to easily glide through the air and inhale without anyone being aware. They don't have any distinct smells or odors.
You can take a tiny sample if you suspect an item is contaminated with asbestos. It is important that you only use a professional to remove asbestos since it's a complex process and requires special equipment. Patch the sample using duct tape to avoid the release of fibers and take it to an asbestos analysis laboratory certified by the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP). A list of accredited laboratories is available on the NVLAP web site.
Certain groups of people are at greater risk of accidentally disturbing asbestos. Construction workers, plumbers, and electricians are all at risk of asbestos exposure when they work on renovations or maintenance. It's recommended for anyone working in these areas to take an asbestos awareness course to make sure they are aware of the risks and can take the correct precautions.
Doing Samples
To conduct asbestos testing or an inspection for asbestos testing or inspection, a sample of the suspected material is required. This sample can be taken by an asbestos expert or by the homeowner, however careful consideration should be taken to reduce the amount of asbestos-containing dust in the air both during the collection of the sample, and during cleaning up after. The person who collects the sample should have a HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner an water spray bottle and disposable coveralls to protect themselves. When performing the task, they should wear a respirator compliant with AS/NZS1716 : 2003 Respiratory protective device. It is recommended to carry out the collection of samples on a non stormy day. Also, ensure that cooling or heating systems are off, as this will minimise the release of any airborne asbestos particles.
When collecting the sample make sure that the area is sealed off and that no pets or children can be allowed to enter. Make sure to saturate the area to be sampled using a damp rag and clean all equipment and tools utilized after the sample is completed. Place the rag in a plastic bag, label it as asbestos waste and dispose of it at an asbestos-free facility that is approved by the government. Place the resealable bag along with the sample inside a second plastic bag. Then, seal it all up before marking it as asbestos waste. Clean the area with water to be cleaned once again and place a drop sheet over it to catch any fibres that escape.
Asbestos samples are typically gathered by using a pump or cassette system that is pre-assembled. It is important to ensure that the cassette doesn't get overloaded with dust. This can block out fibers and distort results. If the sample is taken in an area with large quantities of nonfibrous dust may be necessary to use a smaller volume of air.
The epidemiological studies revealed that asbestos fibres with a shorter length could also cause mesothelioma, or lung cancer. This suggests that size is not the only factor that influences the pathogenicity of asbestos fibers. Other parameters like chemical property, polarization dispersion staining, as well as etching time are also involved.
Identifying Professionals
When asbestos fibers are disturbed or spread they can end up becoming airborne. When inhaled, these microscopic fibers can cause lung disease. These can lead to mesothelioma, asbestosis or other neurological and respiratory issues. Many symptoms may manifest within 20 to 50 years.
Unaltered asbestos isn't a health hazard, but when materials such as insulation, shingles and flooring are damaged, they might release harmful fibers. This can occur when you are working on a renovation or demolition project, as well as in normal home use or the aging process.
If you plan on remodeling your home, consult local officials from the environmental or health department to determine if the structure has asbestos-containing materials. If asbestos is found in your home, have it inspected before any work begins by an accredited asbestos inspector.
If you're renovating an older property, make sure that any contractors you hire have the proper credentials. They must be able to conduct an asbestos survey and report that includes an assessment of the state of any asbestos-containing material (ACM) and their friability. The survey should also specify whether the contractor plans to remove or leave the ACM intact.
Minor repairs might be feasible on certain ACM repairs, but only a professional trained in techniques for safely handling asbestos should attempt these repairs. Whatever the kind of repair, the affected area should be kept separate from the rest of the home and any equipment or clothing should be put in plastic baggies and labeled with a warning to avoid cross-contamination.
hoover asbestos law firm can cover or seal ACM to prevent it from releasing fibers into the environment. Sealing (encapsulation) involves treating the material with a chemical that binds or coats fibers to keep them from becoming airborne. This can be done to insulated pipes or to cover old shingles.
Professionals are also able to physically remove ACM. The process begins by soaking the materials so they can be cut or scraped with different tools without releasing dangerous fibers. They then place the material in sturdy, leakproof, air-tight containers for safe disposal.
Repairing or removing Asbestos
Asbestos is resistant against heat and corrosion. This makes it a great material for a variety of products, including wallboard insulation, fireproofing and auto brakes. However, asbestos is an extremely toxic substance that can cause respiratory issues when the fibers are inhaled. Typically, these fibers get stuck in the lungs, and could cause scarring and inflammation of the tissues, which can impair breathing and cause serious health problems.
Asbestos is present in a variety of places within the home, including floor and ceiling tiles, roof shingles exterior siding, cement pipe, and asbestos-containing joint compound. Check these areas for water damage or abrasions. A little damaged material could be safe as long as it's not manipulated or damaged. However, if the material is in need of repair or you are planning to make changes in your home that could disturb it, you should consult an asbestos professional.
These experts can conduct a visual inspection and take samples. They can also give you advice on what corrections are required and who's qualified. It is crucial that you only have experts manage your asbestos. These professionals have been trained in specific asbestos products and should be allowed to correct them.
In addition to consulting with a trained asbestos professional, you should contact your local or state health department or regional office of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for information about asbestos-related training programs in your region. Beware of firms that claim to be experts in asbestos removal. These companies pose a risk because they encourage or carry out unnecessary removals, thereby increasing the possibility of harmful asbestos fibers being released.
The American Lung Association does NOT endorse these companies. It is important to conduct a thorough investigation of the company before hiring an asbestos professional to ensure that it is fully insured and certified. You can also ask for references from previous clients as well as confirmation of accreditation and insurance coverage. It is also recommended to consult your state or local health and environmental authorities to learn about the procedures that should be followed if you're planning to do any remodeling at home.