How to Identify Asbestos
During the last century asbestos was used in a myriad of products to make them stronger, more fire-resistant and less costly. Inhaling asbestos fibers in the air can cause lung diseases such as mesothelioma and asbestosis.
Certain diseases may have a long latent period. This makes it difficult for patients to recognize a problem before it's too late.
Identifying Asbestos
Asbestos is one of the naturally occurring minerals that were previously used in building materials since they are fire retardant, corrosion resistant and insulate. However, it could pose health risks when the microscopic fibers are inhaled. It can cause diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma. The symptoms of these diseases don't appear until years, even years after the initial exposure. They're often misinterpreted as flu-like symptoms. This is why it's crucial for people to be aware of how to recognize asbestos.
Tests for medical conditions that detect lung disease are the most popular method to detect asbestos. The tests typically consist of physical examinations, chest X-rays and lung function tests. However, asbestos-related illnesses can't be diagnosed using these tests on their own, since they require a combination with a thorough patient history that looks at a person's home, work and cultural environment.
It is possible to detect asbestos in a vast variety of building products and materials, including cement products, paints, floor tiles, adhesives, Artex, insulation, doors, partitions, and cladding. Asbestos can be difficult to spot because the fibers are small and light. They are able to easily glide through the air and inhale without anyone not even realizing. They also don't produce any distinctive smells.
You can take a small sample if you suspect that an item is contaminated with asbestos. It is important that only a professional can remove asbestos, as it's an intricate process that requires special equipment. Send the sample to an accredited asbestos analysis lab through the National Voluntary Laboratory Assessment Program (NVLAP). A list of laboratories can be found on the NVLAP web site.
Certain categories of people are at greater danger of accidentally touching asbestos. These include construction workers, plumbers and electricians, as they are likely to see asbestos-containing products during renovations and maintenance. Anyone who works in these areas should complete an asbestos awareness course to ensure that they are aware of the risks and know how to take the necessary precautions.
Doing Samples
For asbestos testing or inspection, a sample of the material that is suspect is required. This sample could be taken by an asbestos consultant or a homeowner. However it is important to ensure that you do not generate airborne asbestos-containing dust during the collecting and cleaning process. The person taking the sample will typically need an air vacuum cleaner that is HEPA-filtered, a spray bottle of water, and disposable coveralls for protection. While carrying out the task, they should wear a respirator that is in compliance with AS/NZS1716 : 2003 Respiratory protection device. It is best to carry out the sample collection on a non windy day, and ensure that heating or cooling systems are turned off, so that there is less chance of release of any asbestos-containing airborne particles.
When you collect the sample, make sure that the area is sealed off and that children or pets are not allowed to enter. Clean the area to be sampled with the help of a damp rag. Then, wipe all tools and equipment used once the sampling is completed. Place the rag in an unmarked plastic bag, label it as asbestos waste and dispose of it in an asbestos-free facility that is approved by the government. Place the resealable bag along with the sample in a second plastic bag. Secure it all before labeling it as asbestos waste. Put alexandria asbestos lawyer of plastic on the area that needs to be cleaned and wet it again. This will catch any fibres that escape.
Asbestos is usually collected using a pre-assembled pumps and cassette system. It is important to ensure that the cassette does not be suffocated with dust. This could obscure the fibres and bias the results. If the sample is taken in an area with high levels of nonfibrous dust, it may be necessary to utilize a smaller volume of air.
While the majority of research focuses on long asbestos fibers but epidemiological studies have shown that exposure to asbestos fibres that are short can trigger mesothelioma and lung cancer too. This suggests that size isn't the only one of the factors that affect the pathogenicity of asbestos fibres and that other factors such as chemical properties such as dispersion staining, polarization, and etching time are as well.
Identifying Professionals
When asbestos fibers are spread or disturbed they can airborne. If inhaled, these microscopic fibers could cause lung disease. These can lead to mesothelioma and asbestosis as well as other neurological and respiratory issues. The latency period for many symptoms can take anywhere between 20 and 50 years after exposure.
Unaltered asbestos isn't a health hazard, but when materials like flooring, insulation and shingles are damaged, they might release harmful fibers. This can occur in the course of a renovation or demolition project, or in normal home use or when the material ages.
If you are planning to make changes to your home, inquire with your local health or environment department if the building contains asbestos. If asbestos-containing materials are found, have it inspected by an accredited asbestos inspector before any work can begin.
If you are renovating an older house be sure that any contractors you choose to hire have the necessary credentials. They must be able provide an asbestos survey and report which includes an assessment of the state of any asbestos-containing material (ACM) and their ability to be friable. The survey should state whether or not the contractor will remove the ACM.
Minor repairs are possible on some ACM. However only a professional trained in asbestos safety should attempt these. No matter what type of repair, the area must be isolated from the other areas of the house, and any contaminated equipment or clothing must be put in plastic baggies and labeled with a warning so as to avoid cross-contamination.
Professionals can seal or cover ACM to stop it from dispersing fibers into the atmosphere. Sealing (encapsulation) involves treating the material with a substance that binds or coats fibers to prevent them from becoming airborne. This can be done on insulated piping, or to cover old shingles.
Professionals can also physically remove ACM from a building. This process begins by wetting the materials so that they can be cut or scraped with a variety of tools, without releasing harmful fibers. The material is then placed in airtight, tough containers that are leak-proof.
Removing or fixing Asbestos
Asbestos is resistant against corrosion and heat. This makes it an ideal product for thousands of uses like wallboards, fireproofing insulation, and auto brakes. Asbestos is a poisonous substance that can cause respiratory issues when fibers are inhaled. Typically, these fibers get lodged in the lungs and may cause tissue inflammation and scarring which can hinder breathing and cause serious health problems.
Asbestos can be found in a variety of parts of a house, including roof shingles, cement pipes flooring and ceiling tiles, as well as joint compound containing asbestos. It is essential to examine these areas on a regular basis for tears, abrasions or water damage. If the material is slightly damaged, it may be safe to touch it or disturb it. If the material needs to be repaired or you are planning to make changes to your home that could cause disturbance to it, then consult an asbestos expert.
These professionals can conduct an inspection of the visuals and take samples. They can also offer information on what changes are required and who qualifies. It is crucial to have only these experts manage your asbestos. They are certified in specific products and should be allowed to correct them.
You should also contact your local or State Health Department or Regional Office of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to inquire about asbestos-related programs in your area. Be aware of firms who claim to be experts in asbestos removal. These companies are risky as they encourage or conduct unnecessary removals, thereby increasing the likelihood of harmful fibers being released.
The American Lung Association does not endorse these companies. Before hiring an asbestos specialist it is essential to thoroughly research the company to ensure it's accredited and insured. You can also request references from former clients as well as proof of insurance coverage and accreditation. It is also recommended to check with your state or local health and environmental authorities to find out what procedures are required if you're planning to undertake any renovations in your home.