subject: Removing The Health Risk From Asbestos Removal [print this page] Removing The Health Risk From Asbestos Removal
Breathing in asbestos fibers is known to cause lung cancer and other serious illnesses. Asbestos if intact and undisturbed does not pose any health risk. It is only when pieces break off allowing fibers to float into the air that cause the difficulty. These fibers act as miniature spears that puncture the lungs, thus causing health problems. Asbestos removal should only be considered as a last resort. This is because of the serious health risks it poses to the workers involved.
ACMs or asbestos containing materials is a complicated undertaking. The people involved need to wear protective gear so as not to breath in the toxic fibers. The best way to remove asbestos is in big sections. In addition, soaking the ACMs is a good method used to keep asbestos dust from getting into the atmosphere.
Asbestos shingles were once widely used to side homes. Any home with undamaged shingles is safe, and can be left alone. However shingles that are damaged can cause asbestos fibers to be released. It is possible to place a new siding material directly over the asbestos shingles. However, if they must come down severing the heads of the nails allows easy removal of the asbestos boards, and allows the boards to be removed in a safe manner.
When removing ACMs it is necessary to seal off the work area, like windows, vents and doors. When working in commercial buildings it usually best to remove an entire boiler that is coated with ACM, rather than trying to remove the material in the project area. Sometimes workers will cut entire sections of pipe that are wrapped in asbestos insulation to keep the ACM intact. Power tools are not usually used because of the toxic dust they will cause.
In the United States the Environmental Protection Agency and OSHA regulate the removal of ACMs. In addition some states have also enacted safety measures to protect not only workers, but the public at large. Some cities have also passed laws on removing asbestos.
Removing asbestos should never be your first choice. Asbestos that is undamaged does not pose any health risk. In this case covering the damaged area is a better alternative. If the building or home is sold the buyer must be told of any asbestos on the property. Should the building be torn down all asbestos must be eliminated first.
Property owners are held responsible for all asbestos, and any health issues caused from asbestos exposure. Certainly, it is wise to hire a specialized company to remove asbestos. Doing so does not relieve the owner of the property of any possible law suits. The firms that conduct this kind of work are well versed in the regulations and proper procedures.
In conclusion, asbestos that is undamaged is not a health risk. The decision to remove asbestos should always be the last option chosen. Sometimes it is better to just cover the damaged ACMs. This is definitely a cheaper alternative than removal. Fibers discharged into the air can cause grave illnesses. The title holder to the property is held accountable for any ACMs on their property.
