How to Identify Asbestos
In the last century asbestos was used in a myriad of products to make them more durable, fire resistant and less expensive. Exposure to asbestos fibers within the air can trigger lung disease such as asbestosis or mesothelioma.
Some of these diseases have a long period of latency. This makes it difficult for patients to identify an issue before it's late.
Asbestos Identification
Asbestos can be described as a variety of minerals that are naturally occurring. They were used in building materials for their corrosion-resistant, fireproof and insulation properties. However, it can pose health risks when the tiny fibers are inhaled. This could lead to illnesses like mesothelioma and asbestosis. These diseases can take a long time, or even decades, to show their symptoms. They are often misinterpreted as flu-like symptoms. This is why it's important for people to know how to identify asbestos.
Medical tests that test for lung disease are the most frequent method to detect asbestos. These tests include physical exams, chest X rays and lung function tests. These tests aren't enough to detect asbestos-related diseases. They should be paired with a detailed patient history which includes information about a person's job, home, as well as the environment in which they live.
Asbestos can be found in a myriad of building products and materials, including cement, paints and floor tiles. It is also present in insulation, doors partitions, cladding and Artex. However, asbestos is difficult to identify because the dangerous fibers are so small and light that they may easily flounder in the air and be inhaled without being observed. They also don't emit any distinctive smells.
If you suspect that a product could be contaminated with asbestos, you can collect one of the samples. It is crucial that only a professional is able to remove asbestos, as it is complicated and requires special equipment. Patch the sample with duct tape to prevent the release of fibers and take it to an asbestos analysis lab accredited by the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP). The NVLAP website provides an inventory of accredited laboratories.
Certain categories of people are at greater risk of accidentally causing damage to asbestos. This includes plumbers, construction workers and electricians, because they are more likely to encounter asbestos-containing items during maintenance and renovations. Everyone who works in these fields must take an asbestos awareness course to ensure that they are aware of the risks and how to take the necessary precautions.
Take Samples
A sample of the suspected material is required to conduct asbestos testing or inspection. This sample can be taken by a professional asbestos consultant or by the homeowner, however careful consideration should be taken to minimise the generation of dust that contains asbestos both during the collection of 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. While performing the task, they should wear a respirator in accordance with AS/NZS1716: 2003 Respiratory protection device. It is recommended to collect samples on the day that isn't too windy. Also, turn off the heating or cooling system. This will minimize the exposure of asbestos-containing airborne particles.
When you collect the sample, ensure that the area is fully closed off and that children or pets are not permitted in. The area to be sampled with an abrasive rag, then clean any tools and equipment used once the sampling has been completed. Place the rag in a plastic bag, label it as asbestos waste, and dispose of it in an approved asbestos disposal facility. Place the re-sealable bag with the sample inside a second plastic bag, and seal it all up before declaring it asbestos waste. Wet down the area to be cleaned once again and then place a plastic drop sheet over it, to catch any fibres released.
Asbestos sample are typically taken by using a pump or cassette system that is pre-assembled. It is important that the cassette is not filled with dust as this may obscure the fibres of the filter, causing a bias in the result. If the sample is being taken from an area that has high amounts of dust that is not fibrous a smaller volume of air can be used.
The epidemiological studies showed that asbestos fibres of short length could also cause mesothelioma, or lung cancer. This shows that size isn't the only factor that affects the pathogenicity asbestos fibres. Other parameters such as chemical property, polarization and dispersion staining as well as the time to etch are also involved.
Identifying Professionals
Asbestos fibers can be airborne when they are disturbed, or spread. These microscopic fibers, once inhaled, can cause lung disease. These microscopic fibers can cause asbestosis or mesothelioma, as well in other neurological and respiratory diseases. Many symptoms can be noticed after 20 to 50 years.
Unaltered asbestos isn't dangerous to health, however when the materials like insulation, shingles and flooring are damaged, they can release harmful fibers. This can happen during a renovation or demolition project, and also in normal use of the home or the aging process.
If you're planning to redesign your home, inquire with your local health or environmental department if the building contains asbestos. If asbestos is discovered in your home, you should have it checked prior to when any work can begin by an accredited asbestos inspector.
When you're renovating an older home, make sure any contractors you hire have necessary credentials. They should be able conduct an asbestos survey and report, which includes an assessment of the state of any asbestos-containing material (ACM) and their ability to withstand friability. The survey should indicate whether or the contractor will be removing the ACM.
Repairs of minor nature are possible on certain ACM and other ACMs, but only a trained professional who knows the techniques for handling asbestos safely should attempt these repairs. No matter what kind of repair is done it is essential that the area be sealed off from the rest of your home. Any contaminated clothing or equipment should be put into plastic bags and labeled with a warning in order to prevent cross-contamination.
Professionals can seal ACM or cover it to stop fibers from being released into the air. Sealing ( miami gardens asbestos lawsuit ) also referred to as encapsulation, is the process of treating the material in a manner which binds and covers the fibers so they don't become airborne. This can be done to insulated piping or to cover old shingles.
Professionals are also able to physically remove ACM. The materials are initially soaked so that they can be cut using a variety of tools without releasing dangerous fibers. The material is then placed in airtight, tough containers that are leak-proof.
Repairing or removing Asbestos
Asbestos is abrasive to corrosion and heat. This makes it a useful material for a myriad of products, including wallboard insulation, fireproofing, and auto brakes. However, asbestos is a toxic material that could cause respiratory issues when the fibers are inhaled. These fibers can cause tissue inflammation and scarring in the lungs. This can be detrimental to breathing and can cause serious health problems.
Asbestos can be found in many areas of an apartment, such as floor and ceiling tiles roofing shingles exterior siding, cement pipe and asbestos-containing joint compound. It is essential to examine these areas frequently for tears, abrasions, or water damage. If the material is slighty damaged, it might be safe to touch or move. If the material requires to be repaired, or you're planning to make changes to your home which could damage it, then consult an asbestos professional.
They can conduct an inspection in person and collect samples. They can also provide advice on what adjustments need to be made and who is qualified to do them. It is vital to have only these professionals handle your asbestos. They are certified in specific products and should only be allowed to correct them.
In addition, to talking with an asbestos expert who is trained 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 removal. These firms could be dangerous because they promote unnecessary removals or conduct them improperly and increase the risk of release of harmful fibers.
The American Lung Association does NOT endorse these companies. It is crucial to conduct a thorough investigation of the company before hiring an asbestos professional to ensure that they are fully insured and certified. You can also request references from previous clients as well as proofs of insurance and accreditation. It is also recommended to consult your state or local health and environmental agencies to learn about the procedures that must be followed if planning to make any changes at home.