If you live or have recently purchased an old house built before the 1990s, the chances are high that it could contain asbestos materials, which are a health risk. Since it is illegal to dump asbestos in a standard skip bin, homeowners should find appropriate and legally recommended asbestos removal and disposal methods. Remember that asbestos removal should never be a DIY project due to the risk of exposure to hazardous materials. Here are some valuable tips for beginners during an asbestos removal project.
Asbestos-Containing Materials
Asbestos is likely to be found anywhere in old homes because it was a popular construction material decades ago. A removal professional will help make an inventory of the asbestos in your home by conducting an inspection and sample testing. Examples of materials that might contain asbestos include pipes, fibre cladding cement, corrugated cement roofing, brick cladding, flooring, cement pipe columns, weatherboards, and insulation materials. Your local authority can be a great place to start when you need an exhaustive list of asbestos-containing materials.
Certified Asbestos Removalist
The presence of asbestos in your home increases the risk of contracting asbestos-related respiratory illnesses. If you disturb asbestos by hammering, drilling, or grinding, the asbestos-containing material will release toxic fibres, which can cause chronic health complications. Therefore, you should engage a certified removal expert to conduct an inspection and remove asbestos materials as safely as possible. An accredited expert adheres to federal and state laws and regulations governing asbestos removal to make your home safe and habitable as soon as possible.
Asbestos Removal
An inspection report shows the specific materials containing asbestos in your home. Because asbestos removal can take a few days, you should make prior arrangements to get alternative accommodation, at least until your home is safe for occupation. Workers specialising in removing asbestos always wear personal protective equipment, such as air respirators, goggles, and gloves. Most importantly, the service provider you engage should take precautions not to disturb asbestos-laden materials. All toxic materials are often double-bagged in thick plastic sheeting, secured, and labelled accordingly. Besides, the protective clothing used during asbestos removal should be disposed of properly.
Disposal
After securing asbestos-containing materials, you must ensure safe transportation and ultimate disposal. The materials are transported in special vehicles labelled accordingly. The hazardous waste is eventually taken to a licensed asbestos disposal site. It is worth remembering that improper removal and disposal of asbestos attracts hefty fines and penalties.
To learn more about this process, contact asbestos disposal services.
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