The process of alleviating or eliminating the effects of asbestos mineral is known as asbestos abatement. If you are residing in a building constructed before the 1990s, then you are probably residing amongst asbestos-containing building material (ACBM). This can be harmful to your health in the long run. Though asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral, it is hazardous to health, especially lungs.
If you are planning to remodel your home, then it is important to search for “asbestos abatement near me.” Before you begin to demolish the structures, you must inspect your house for the presence of asbestos.
If you miss this step, then you create a dangerous situation for you and your family and the remodeling team. This is because, during demolition, microscopic fibers of asbestos might get suspended in air. You can easily inhale them, creating respiratory problems, even lung cancer.
More about asbestos abatement
The process of asbestos abatement does not always involve removing asbestos from a building structure. If the mineral is intact in the structure, it won’t pose a harm. In case your remodeling project does not involve demolishing the particular asbestos-containing structure, then you can safely keep it as it is. However, if the structure needs to be disturbed or demolished, then it becomes necessary to safely abate the mineral.
Calling in the experts
If you suspect your home structure contains asbestos, then search for “asbestos abatement near me” and call in the experts. Please do not try to remove asbestos on your own. It can be hazardous. It is important to mention here again that asbestos fibers are microscopic, which means they are not always visible to the naked eye. You might inhale them and not know. This can put you to a grave health risk.
Before removing or handling this mineral, it is vital to prepare for it. Professionals handling this mineral undergo special training. They carry out the abatement process with all the safety measures put into place. They are also trained in disposing off the mineral safely. You cannot throw the mineral simply in trash.
Steps of asbestos abatement
1. Getting a proper plan:
Licensed contractors carry out the plan set by the industrial hygienist. The plan provides details on preparation of the area to be abated, the process, and the cleanup task. The plan mentions all the laws that need to be abided by during the entire process.
2. Demarcating the area:
After getting the plan, the contractors demarcate the area to be abated. All the occupants must vacate the building until the cleanup and clearance tests are done.
3. Preparing the work area:
The contractors seal the area that is not to be treated. They use thick plastic sheets and other equipment for the sealing. They also seal air ducts to avoid asbestos fibers from getting transmitted through the duct. They disable HVAC system. The area should be supervised before the actual abatement work begins.
4. Wearing safety gear:
Asbestos removal contractors wear special protective gear and respirators to protect themselves completely.
5. Removing asbestos:
The contractors then begin to remove asbestos. They use various tools and techniques for proper removal.
6. Asbestos disposal:
The asbestos is put into special disposal bags and sealed. A decontamination unit featuring a protective lining is used to dispose of this mineral.
7. Vacuuming of the area:
Special vacuums featuring HEPA filtration is used to minimize dispersal of mineral fibers in the air and to clean the surfaces.
8. Clearance:
Clearance test is a must. Only then are the occupants allowed to go back to the building. The area must meet the clearance criteria set in the plan.
It is crucial to find certified and experienced asbestos removal contractors. They must be familiar with federal, state, and local abatement laws and possess all the necessary licenses and training.