Visit the EnviroMavens booth #46 at the
Asbestos removal is a complicated and dangerous process that trained and experienced professionals should only undertake. Although workers no longer use asbestos in new construction, you can still find it in many older homes and buildings. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, they release harmful fibers into the air, which can be breathed in and cause serious health problems. Therefore, asbestos testing and removal are necessary for anyone planning to renovate an older property. The first step is to have the property inspected by a qualified asbestos inspector, who will be able to identify any materials that contain asbestos. Once a professional has identified these materials, they must be removed carefully and disposed of properly in order to minimize the risk of exposure. Asbestos remediation is a complex and dangerous process, but it is essential for protecting the health of everyone who will be working on or living in the property.
A Brief History Of Asbestos
People have used asbestos in various applications for centuries. Its durability and heat-resistant properties make it an ideal material for use in insulation, brake pads, and fireproofing. However, exposure to asbestos fibers can cause a range of serious health problems, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. As a result, we have been increasingly restricting the use of asbestos in recent years.
RELATED: FAQs About Asbestos
Asbestos was first used commercially in the early 19th century when large quantities were mined in from deposits in Canada and the United States. It quickly became popular due to its low cost and wide range of applications. By the mid-20th century, however, the link between asbestos exposure and health problems was becoming increasingly apparent. As a result, in 1974, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the use of asbestos in insulation products. Since then, a number of other countries have enacted similar bans or restrictions on the use of asbestos. Despite these measures, exposure to asbestos fibers remains a severe health hazard for workers in specific industries, such as construction and shipbuilding.
Improve the Health and Safety of Your Work Environment
Why Asbestos Is A Health Risk
Asbestos is also a known carcinogen, and exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious health problems, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. Asbestos fibers are so small that they can easily become airborne, and when inhaled, they can lodge in the lungs and other organs.
Over time, this can cause inflammation and scarring, and it can also lead to the development of cancerous tumors. Asbestos is also a risk to workers in certain industries, such as construction and shipbuilding, where exposure to the mineral is more likely. For these reasons, it is crucial to be aware of the risks associated with asbestos exposure and take steps to protect yourself from this potentially deadly substance.
Can You Identify Asbestos?
Asbestos is extremely difficult to identify by just looking for it. In fact, it is pretty much impossible. Known as the hidden killer, asbestos is hidden away in the buildings we live in and work. The fibers are so small that you need a microscope to see them. In addition, asbestos does not smell, and it has no taste. And since you can’t see, taste, or smell asbestos, a certified professional can only identify it through a microscope.
Where You Find Asbestos
Asbestos has been used in a variety of construction materials over the years due to its heat resistance and fiber strength. For example, you might find asbestos in floor tiles, roofing shingles, textured paints, and pipes. You can also find asbestos in friction products, including brake pads, clutch parts, and transmission components. In fact, there are over 3,000 products that we know of that could contain asbestos.
It is also important to know that not only can you find asbestos in older residential houses, but you can also find it in office buildings, warehouses, and schools. As such, it is extremely important that you have your commercial building tested for asbestos.
Full-Service Industrial Hygiene
You may not think about it on a daily basis, but the air you breathe, food you eat, and the water you drink are all affected by environmental factors. Enviromavens is an industrial hygiene consulting firm that specializes in helping businesses create a healthy and sustainable workplace. Our team of experts can provide comprehensive services to assess your workplace environment and identify any potential hazards. We also offer recommendations on how to mitigate these risks and improve employee health and well-being. Calling Enviromavens is the first step to creating a safer and more sustainable workplace for your employees.
