Homes constructed before the 1980s exposed owners to asbestos, a common ingredient in cement, insulation, tiles, and pipes. If you are a DIYer, knocking down walls and pillars containing this hazardous substance can prove catastrophic for your health. Before renovating or constructing a new space or while attic cleaning in Calabasas, contact asbestos removal experts to remove the substance for you.
These professionals use government-approved safety equipment and practices that prevent the spread of asbestos and keep them safe during removal.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a hazardous mineral fiber used to strengthen certain products, heat insulation, and fire resistance. It has several forms and can be blue, white, green, or brown in color. The material breaks down into fine, soft fibers when it is struck. But you may be unable to identify the ore on sight in your home. Tiny fibers can also be found in household products, so if they break apart, look for fine fibers that look like frayed fabric. A test can confirm if you have an asbestos problem or not.
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How It Affects Health
If you breathe in asbestos, you can be susceptible to lung cancer. This includes mesothelioma, which can infect the chest lining and abdomen, and asbestosis, which can scar the lungs irreparably. The more fibers you inhale, the more severe the condition. Smokers have a higher chance of developing lung cancer if exposed to asbestos. The tragedy is that cancer can take several decades to manifest after the initial exposure.
If it is disturbed, the substance can release fibers we can inhale. These can remain in the lungs for years, increasing our risk of diseases. Asbestos can easily crumble and can also go airborne if it is scraped, sanded, or sawed.
How to Identify Asbestos
Most people cannot tell if the material they are looking at is asbestos or something else. If you are uncertain, remain cautious, assume it is asbestos, and don’t touch it. Plus, get your home inspected for the substance via accredited and trained professionals, especially if:
- You wish to renovate certain rooms or remodel your whole house. The construction activities can disturb asbestos buildup.
- Your home is damaged. Think crumbling drywall and insulation that has seen better days.
The asbestos analyst will take some samples for tests and they will wear protective gear during extraction. So leave the material alone till they arrive and do not allow anyone near it either. The extraction may be hazardous as well. If, on the other hand, your home is intact and asbestos won’t be disturbed, you may not need a test. Material that is in good condition and contains the substance should be undisturbed.
Why You Shouldn’t Remove Asbestos Yourself
Asbestos fibers float and are fine enough to be inhaled into the lungs, which can lead to the diseases mentioned above. Plus, you may not be aware of regulations set by the US Environmental Protection Agency, which regulates and authorizes removal, and may violate them unknowingly if you try removal yourself.
While some DIY asbestos removals lead to written warnings, others can lead to expensive fines ($25,000 per day per violation) and even prison time or criminal charges since airborne asbestos can be hazardous for people in your vicinity as well.
How Asbestos Is Removed Professionally
Here are some things that professional asbestos removers do when they are removing this hazardous material:
They Plan the Removal Beforehand
Licensed asbestos removal specialists first analyze the size and scope of the abatement project before taking action. This step is super important for local officials who provide permits for such jobs. Without a detailed report, even specialists may not be able to get the permits they need to start the removal process.
They Prepare the Work Area
The area where the asbestos is located is sealed off with negative air pressure units and large plastic sheets. These prevent the material from spreading to other areas. They also cover areas that don’t need asbestos abatement with these plastic sheets and post warning signs to alert passersby so they can remain at a safe distance while they work.
They Wear Appropriate Safety Gear
All abatement specialists wear appropriate safety gear during asbestos removal. This includes P-100 and N-100 protective clothing and respirators that prevent the fibers from entering and scarring their lungs.
They Follow Strict Safety Protocols
Before abatement, all HVAC systems are shut down to prevent air circulation that can otherwise transfer airborne asbestos particles. Workers also use wet wipes or a HEPA vacuum to clean the substance from surfaces to prevent dust from blowing up. The HEPA vacuum is used to clean up the space when abatement is complete.
They Dispose of Asbestos Responsibly
Before removal, materials contaminated with asbestos are soaked with water and double-bagged in thick plastic bags. These are placed in a sealed container which is labeled properly before being taken to special landfills designated for hazardous waste.
They Create Decontamination Units
Asbestos abatement specialists also create enclosed decontamination systems where they leave their contaminated tools, shoes, and clothing after a job.
They Follow Stringent Decontamination Procedures
These specialists follow certain specific steps to remove protective gear and equipment. This prevents them from taking the substance into their homes after a job.
If you are attic cleaning Los Angeles and find traces of asbestos in the room, hire professional removers with the appropriate skills, safety clothing, and equipment to do a thorough job. They can ensure your home is free of hazardous materials by eliminating all traces and fibers. Schedule a consultation with accredited specialists if you think the problem is substantial.
The worst thing you can do is try and remove the asbestos yourself. You can contaminate your surroundings, inhale the fibers even if you are wearing a mask and make matters worse for yourself and your family.
