Asbestos Removal Safety

While the dangers of asbestos have been clearly established for decades, it can still be found in many homes, schools, and workplaces. If you suspect that your home or another building may contain asbestos insulation, cement, or other products, you need to proceed carefully. Safe asbestos removal requires professional knowledge and training.

A Dormant Danger

The problem is that asbestos does not present a serious risk in homes and other buildings until it has been disturbed or begun to decay. Its danger lies in small crystal fibers that are released into the air when it is disturbed. It is very important to not disturb anything that could, potentially, include asbestos until after the item has been analyzed by a professional.

The safest thing to do with something containing asbestos that is not in poor condition is to leave it alone. Even the process of removal can, by accident, contaminate other rooms or areas of a home. Disturbing asbestos creates a live health hazard where there had previously been only a “dormant” one.

Asbestos Safety Today

Fortunately, the majority of products are made without asbestos now. The few products that are still currently produced with asbestos are required to have labels that identify them as such. Unfortunately, this does not help people who own homes built as late as 1986 or occupy offices that were constructed in the 1970s or before.

If you suspect that there is asbestos in your home or office, you may decide to leave it alone as long as it is in good condition. If you would prefer to have it removed, or if not in good condition, have an abatement or removal specialist come in to examine the situation. There is no way to tell the difference between asbestos and safer materials without conducting laboratory tests.

Damage to asbestos containing materials can consist of tears, abrasions, or even water damage. Once material is damaged, it is capable of releasing asbestos fibers into the air. It is always best to not make assumptions about the safety of asbestos in your home; consult with a professional who can advise you on the next steps to take.

Contact our Asbestos and Mesothelioma Resource Center

Asbestos is a highly toxic mineral that has been linked to lung cancer and the aggressive disease mesothelioma. To learn more about asbestos safety issues, contact us at 1-800-781-3955.