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How to Identify Asbestos

Over the course of the last century, asbestos was used in a variety of products to make them more durable, fire resistant and less costly. Exposure to asbestos fibers within the air can cause lung diseases like mesothelioma and asbestosis.

Some of these diseases have a long latency period. It's difficult to identify the presence of a problem until it is too far gone.

Identifying Asbestos

Asbestos is a class of naturally occurring minerals that were once used in building materials since they are fireproof, corrosion resistant and insulate. However, it could pose health risks when the microscopic fibers inhaled. This can lead to diseases such as mesothelioma and asbestosis. Symptoms of these illnesses don't manifest until years, if not years after the initial exposure. They're often confused with flu-like symptoms. It's crucial that people know how to recognize asbestos.

The most commonly used method to detect asbestos is by medical tests that check for lung diseases. These tests include a physical exam, chest X-rays, and lung function tests. However, asbestos-related diseases aren't diagnosed using these tests on their own, since they have to be taken with a thorough health history that looks at a person's home, work and cultural environment.

It is possible to find asbestos in a broad range of building products and materials such as cement, paints, floor tiles, adhesives, Artex, insulation, doors, partitions and cladding. However, asbestos can be difficult to recognize since the dangerous fibers are so small and light that they may easily float in the air and then be breathed in without being noticed. They don't possess any distinct smells either.

If you suspect a material might contain asbestos, you can take the material as a sample. It is imperative that you only use a professional to remove asbestos since it's an intricate process that requires special equipment. Send the sample to an accredited asbestos analysis laboratory through the National Voluntary Laboratory Assessment Program (NVLAP). A list of accredited laboratories is available on the NVLAP web site.

It is very easy to accidentally alter the asbestos in a way and the danger of doing so can be much higher for certain groups of people. Plumbers, construction workers and electricians are at risk of exposure to asbestos in maintenance and renovations. Anyone working in these fields should take an asbestos awareness course to ensure that they are aware of the risks and know how to take the proper precautions.

Taking Samples

A sample of the suspected material is required for asbestos testing or inspection. The sample can be collected by a professional asbestos consultant or by the homeowner, however caution must be taken to limit the formation of airborne asbestos containing dust both when collecting the sample, and during cleaning up afterwards. Typically, the person taking the sample must have a HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner, a water spray bottle and disposable coveralls to protect themselves. They should also wear a respirator which conforms to AS/NZS1716.2003 Respiratory protective equipment while carrying out the task. It is recommended to collect samples on a day that is not too windy. Also, turn off the heating or cooling system. This will minimize the risk of airborne asbestos particles.

When collecting the sample make sure the area is completely sealed and that pets and children can access the. After the sample has been collected, wipe down all tools and equipment with a damp cloth. Place the rag into an unmarked plastic bag, label it as asbestos waste, and dispose of it at an approved asbestos disposal facility. Place the resealable bag along with the sample into a second plastic bag. Seal it all before declaring it asbestos waste. The area will be cleaned a second time and place a plastic drop sheet over it, to catch any released fibres.

Asbestos is usually collected using a pre-assembled pump as well as a cassette system. It is essential to ensure that the cassette doesn't become overloaded with dust. This could obscure fibers and affect the results. If the sample was taken in an area where there are significant levels of non-fibrous dust, it may be necessary to use an air sample with a smaller volume.

While most research is focused on long asbestos fibers but epidemiological studies have found that exposure to short asbestos fibres can cause mesothelioma and lung cancer as well. This proves that size is not the only factor that influences the pathogenicity asbestos fibres. Other factors like chemical properties, polarization and asbestos dispersion staining as well as the time of etching are also important.

Identifying Professionals

Asbestos fibres can become airborne when they are disturbed or spread. These microscopic fibers, when inhaled, may cause lung disease. They could cause mesothelioma or asbestosis, as well as other neurological and respiratory problems. Many symptoms may manifest within 20 to 50 years.

Unaltered asbestos isn't an hazard to health, but when materials such as flooring, shingles, or insulation are damaged, they can release harmful fibers. This could happen when you are working on a renovation or demolition project, and also during normal home use or as the house ages.

If you are planning on transforming your home, make sure you check with local environmental or health officials to determine if the structure has asbestos-containing materials. If any material is found and inspected, you must have it checked by an asbestos-certified inspector prior to beginning any work.

If you are renovating an older house ensure that the contractors you hire have appropriate credentials. They should be able provide an asbestos survey and report, which includes an assessment of the condition and condition of any asbestos-containing material (ACM) and their ability to withstand friability. The survey should state whether or not the contractor will remove the ACM.

Minor repairs are feasible on certain ACM. However, only a professional who is certified in asbestos safety should attempt these. Whatever the type of repair, the affected area should be kept separate from the surrounding area and any contaminated equipment or clothing must be put in plastic baggies and labeled with a warning in order to prevent cross-contamination.

Professionals can seal or cover ACM to stop it from releasing fibers into the environment. Sealing (encapsulation) involves treating the material with a substance which binds or covers the fibers to keep 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. The materials are then soaked to allow them to be cut using a variety of tools without releasing dangerous fibers. Then they place the material in sturdy, leak-proof air-tight containers to ensure safe disposal.

Removing or repairing Asbestos

Asbestos is abrasive to heat and corrosion which makes it an extremely useful ingredient in thousands of products such as wallboard materials, fireproofing insulation and auto brakes. Asbestos is a poisonous substance that can cause respiratory problems when fibers are inhaled. These fibers can cause tissue inflammation and scarring in the lungs, which can be detrimental to breathing and can cause serious health issues.

Asbestos can be found in numerous areas of a home which includes roof shingles cement pipes flooring and ceiling tiles, and joint compound made of asbestos. Be sure to check these areas for water damage or abrasions. If the material is only little damaged, it might be safe to touch or even disturb. If the material needs to be repaired, or you're planning to make changes to your home that could cause disturbance to it, then consult an asbestos expert.

These experts can conduct a visual inspection and take samples. They can also offer suggestions on what adjustments are required and who's qualified. It is essential to have only these experts handle your asbestos. Some of them have been trained specifically for specific products, and only they must perform the corrective work on them.

In addition to consulting a trained asbestos professional You should also contact your state or local health department or regional office of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to inquire about asbestos-related training programs in your region. Be aware of companies that falsely claim to specialize in asbestos settlement removal. These companies can be risky as they encourage unneeded removals or conduct them improperly, increasing the danger of the release of harmful fibers.

The American Lung Association does not endorse these companies. Before hiring an asbestos settlement expert it is crucial to thoroughly research the company to ensure it's certified and insured. You can also request references from previous clients as well as proof of accreditation and insurance coverage. It is also recommended to check with your state or local health and environmental departments for the proper procedures to follow if you are planning to renovate your home.