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During the past century, asbestos was used to make a myriad of products stronger, more resistant to fire, and less costly. But exposure to airborne asbestos fibers can cause lung disease like mesothelioma and asbestosis.
Certain of these diseases could be chronically latent. It's difficult to identify an issue until it's far gone.
Identifying Asbestos
Asbestos is one of the naturally occurring minerals that were once used in building materials since they are fireproof and corrosion resistant, as well as insulate. It could, however, create health risks if the microscopic fibers are inhaled. It is common for them to cause diseases like asbestosis and mesothelioma. Symptoms of these illnesses don't appear until years, even decades, after the initial exposure. They're often misinterpreted as flu-like symptoms. This is why it's important for people to be aware of how to identify asbestos.
The most common way to identify asbestos is through medical tests that check for lung disease. These tests include a physical exam, chest X-rays, and lung function tests. These tests aren't sufficient to identify asbestos-related diseases. They must be combined with a complete history of the patient that includes details about the patient's job, home, and the environment in which they live.
Asbestos can be found in a wide range of building products and materials, including cement, paints and floor tiles. It is also found in insulation, doors and partitions, cladding and Artex. Asbestos is difficult for people to detect because the fibers are small and light. They are able to effortlessly glide through the air and breathe without anyone being aware. They don't possess any distinct smells either.
You can take a tiny sample if you suspect that the substance you're looking at has asbestos. It is important that only a professional can remove asbestos, since it is an extremely complex process that requires special equipment. Patch the sample with duct tape to prevent the release of fibers, and take it to an asbestos analysis laboratory that is accredited by the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP). The NVLAP website provides the list of accredited laboratories.
Certain groups of people are at greater risk of accidentally disturbing asbestos. These include construction workers, plumbers and electricians, as they are likely to see asbestos-containing items during maintenance and renovations. Everyone who works in these fields must take an asbestos awareness course to ensure they are aware of the dangers and how to take the right precautions.
Take Samples
A sample of the suspected material is required for asbestos testing or inspection. This sample can be taken by an asbestos expert or by the homeowner, but care must be taken to minimize the production of asbestos-containing dust in the air throughout the collection of the sample, and during cleaning up after. The person taking the sample will typically need an air vacuum cleaner that is HEPA-filtered and a spray bottle of water and disposable coveralls as protection. When they are performing the task they should wear a respirator that is compliant with AS/NZS1716 : 2003 Respiratory protection device. It is recommended to carry out the sampling on a calm, non windy day, and ensure that cooling or heating systems are shut off, so that there is less chance of release of any asbestos-containing airborne particles.
When collecting the sample, make sure the area is completely sealed off and that pets and children are allowed to be allowed to enter. Make sure to saturate the area to be sampled with a damp rag and clean all equipment and tools utilized after the sample has been completed. Place the rag in the bag, label it as asbestos waste, and dispose of it at an approved asbestos disposal facility. Place the re-sealable bag containing the sample inside a second plastic bag, then seal it all up before marking it as asbestos waste. Place a plastic dropsheet over the area to be cleaned. Then, wet it down again. This will collect any fibres that escape.
Asbestos is typically removed using a pre-assembled pumps and cassette system. It is essential that the cassette isn't overloaded with dust, as this can obscure the fibres on the filter, causing distortion in the result. If the sample is collected in an area with high levels of non-fibrous dust, a smaller volume of air can be employed.
While the majority of research focuses on long asbestos fibers, the epidemiological studies have shown that exposure to short asbestos fibres can trigger mesothelioma and lung cancer as well. This suggests that size is not the only factor influencing asbestos fibers' pathogenicity. Other parameters like chemical properties, polarization and dispersion staining, as also the time required to etch are also a factor.
Identifying Professionals
Asbestos fibers can become airborne when they are disturbed or spread. These microscopic fibers, when inhaled, may cause lung diseases. They can cause mesothelioma or asbestosis, as well as other respiratory and neurological problems. Many symptoms can appear after 20 to 50 years.
Asbestos that is not disturbed does not pose an health risk, however when materials like insulation, shingles and flooring are damaged or worn out they could release harmful fibers. This could happen during a renovation or demolition project, as well as in normal home use or the aging process.
If you're planning to renovate your home, make sure you check with local health or environmental officials to see if your building is made up of asbestos materials. If asbestos is discovered in your home, it is recommended to have it inspected before any work can begin by an accredited asbestos inspector.
If you're planning to renovate an older property, make sure that the contractors you choose to hire have the proper credentials. They should be able provide an asbestos report and a survey that includes an assessment on the condition of any ACM (asbestos-containing material) and their brittleness. The survey should also state whether the contractor will take away or leave the ACM intact.
Minor repairs are feasible on certain ACM. However, only a professional skilled in the safe handling of asbestos should attempt these. No matter what kind of repair is completed it is essential that the area be protected from the rest of your home. All clothing and equipment should be placed in plastic bags and labeled with a warning to prevent cross-contamination.
Professionals can cover or seal ACM to stop it from dispersing fibers into the atmosphere. Sealing (encapsulation) involves treating the material with a chemical that binds or covers the fibers to prevent them from being airborne. This can be done on insulated piping or to cover old shingles.
Professionals are also able to physically remove ACM. This process begins by wetting the materials in order that they can be cut or scraped using a variety of tools without releasing the dangerous fibers. The material is then placed in airtight and durable containers that are leak-proof.
Removing or replacing Asbestos
Asbestos is resistant against corrosion and heat. This makes it a suitable product for thousands of uses like wallboards insulation, fireproofing and auto brakes. But asbestos is also an irritant that can cause respiratory issues when the fibers are inhaled. These fibers can cause tissue inflammation and scarring of the lungs, which could affect breathing and lead to serious health problems.
Asbestos can be found in a variety of areas of a home which includes roof shingles cement pipes and floor and ceiling tiles, as well as joint compound that contains asbestos. It is essential to examine these areas regularly for damage, tears, or damage. Slightly damaged material may be safe if it is not touched or disturbed. If the material requires to be repaired or if you are planning to make changes to your home that could disturb it, then consult with an asbestos professional.
These experts can perform an inspection by visuals as well as take samples. They can also offer advice on the corrections that must be made and who is qualified to carry out them. It is vital that you only have experts manage your asbestos. They are trained in specific products and should be allowed to correct the problem.
You can also contact your state's local Health Department or Regional Office of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to find out about asbestos training programs offered in your area. Beware of companies that claim to be experts in asbestos removal. These firms can be dangerous because they encourage unnecessary removals or conduct them improperly, increasing the danger of release of harmful fibers.
The American Lung Association does NOT endorse these companies. It is essential to research the company thoroughly before hiring an asbestos expert to ensure that it is fully insured and certified. You can also request references from previous clients as well as proof of accreditation and insurance coverage. You should also check with your local or state health and environmental departments to determine the best procedures to follow if you are planning to remodel your house.