Handling any asbestos products and materials can be dangerous. If the material is broken or damaged already, asbestos fibers can easily become airborne.
Research indicates there is no safe level of asbestos exposure. To prevent exposure, asbestos should only be handled and removed by professionals with the appropriate certifications.
Abatement professionals are highly trained to follow federal and state laws. The EPA requires abatement specialists to receive thorough training and accreditation.
Although there are do-it-yourself asbestos abatement guides online, the EPA recommends the general public does not attempt to handle asbestos. Individuals who mishandle asbestos may face dangerous exposure.
Asbestos Testing and Mitigation
Homeowners and building owners should treat any potential asbestos-containing material as dangerous. Individuals should not touch the materials and avoid the area until an inspector can test them.
A licensed professional will perform a visual inspection of the area first for any potential hazards. An inspector will then remove pieces of the questionable material. Lab technicians will analyze the samples to determine asbestos content.
If the samples contain asbestos, the asbestos inspector will suggest next steps. They may recommend the materials be encapsulated or completely removed from the area.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) suggests the asbestos inspector employed to do the initial inspection is different from the removal contractors. This can help avoid a conflict of interest.
The Asbestos Removal Process
Depending on the condition of the asbestos materials, professionals may recommend encapsulation or abatement. During an encapsulation, specialists will coat the asbestos materials with a sealant. The coating will prevent fibers from becoming airborne.
If the damage is too severe, the materials may need to be completely removed. Steps in the asbestos removal process include:
- Turn off HVAC units and seal vents to prevent asbestos fibers from circulating.
- Seal off the work area with plastic sheeting.
- Use wet cleanup tools and HEPA filter vacuums to clean the workspace.
- Place all materials removed from the site inside clearly marked, leak-tight containers.
Technicians should wear a full-face mask respirator and coveralls when removing asbestos-containing materials. When finished, workers must adhere to decontamination protocols. For instance, workers should contain any soiled clothes. They should change and shower in a clean room away from the work area before changing into street clothes.
After asbestos abatement, professionals can safely dispose of the carcinogenic materials according to state and federal regulations.
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