How to Identify Asbestos

In the past century, asbestos was used in a variety of products, to make them more durable, fire resistant and less expensive. Exposure to asbestos fibers in the air can trigger lung diseases such as mesothelioma or asbestosis.

Some of these diseases can have a long-lasting latent period. This makes it difficult to spot an issue before it's late.

Identifying Asbestos

Asbestos is a range of minerals that are naturally occurring. They were once used in building materials for their fire retardant, corrosion-resistant and insulating properties. Inhaling the microscopic fibers could be harmful to health. This can lead to diseases such as mesothelioma or asbestosis. The symptoms of these diseases do not appear until years, even decades after the initial exposure. They are often mistaken for flu-like symptoms. This is why it's essential for people to be aware of how to recognize asbestos.

The most common way to detect asbestos is by medical tests to look for lung diseases. These tests include a physical exam, chest X rays and lung function tests. These tests aren't enough to diagnose asbestos-related diseases. They should be paired with a comprehensive history of the patient that includes details about the patient's job, home, as well as cultural environment.

Asbestos can be found in a myriad of building materials and products, including cement, paints, and floor tiles. It is also present in insulation, doors partitions, cladding and Artex. However, asbestos can be difficult to recognize since the fibers that pose danger are so small and light that they could easily flounder in the air and inhale without being observed. They also don't emit any distinctive smells.

You can take a tiny sample if you suspect the substance you're looking at has asbestos. This should only be performed by a trained professional, since removing asbestos is extremely complex and requires specialized equipment. Patch the sample with duct tape to stop the release of fibers and take it to an asbestos analysis laboratory that is accredited by the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP). The NVLAP website provides an inventory of accredited laboratories.

Certain categories of people are more at chance of accidentally damaging asbestos. These include plumbers, construction workers, and electricians, because they are most likely to come across asbestos-containing materials during maintenance and renovations. Any person who works in these areas should complete an asbestos awareness course to ensure they are aware of the risks and how to take the right precautions.

Taking Samples

A sample of the suspected material is required to conduct asbestos testing or inspection. The sample can be taken by an asbestos consultant or a homeowner. However it is crucial to ensure that you don't create asbestos-containing dust that is airborne during the collecting and cleaning process. The person who collects the sample will usually require a HEPA-filtered air cleaner and a spray bottle of water and disposable coveralls to provide protection. While carrying out the task, they should wear a respirator that is in compliance with AS/NZS1716: 2003 Respiratory protective device. It is best to take samples on a day that is not too windy. Also, turn off the heating or cooling system. This will reduce the exposure of asbestos-containing airborne particles.

When you collect the sample, make sure that the area is closed off and that any pets or children are not permitted in. The area to be sampled using the help of a damp rag. Then, clean any tools and equipment used once the sampling has been completed. Place the rag into an unmarked plastic bag, label it as asbestos waste, and dispose of it at an asbestos-free facility that is approved by the government. Place the resealable container and the sample in a second plastic bag. Then, seal it all up before marking it asbestos waste. Make sure to rinse the area to be cleaned once again and place a plastic drop sheet over it to catch any fibres that are released.

Asbestos samples are typically gathered through a pump and cassette system that is pre-assembled. It is important to ensure that the cassette doesn't get overloaded with dust. This could block fibers and distort results. If the sample is being taken from an area that has high levels of dust that is non-fibrous, smaller volumes of air can be utilized.

The epidemiological studies showed that short asbestos fibres can also cause mesothelioma and lung cancer. This indicates that size is not the only one of the factors influencing asbestos fibers' pathogenicity and that other factors such as chemical properties like dispersion staining, asbestos polarization, and etching times are also involved.

Identifying Professionals

Asbestos fibres can become airborne when they are disturbed or spewed out. When inhaled, these tiny fibers can cause lung diseases. They could cause mesothelioma, asbestosis or other neurological and respiratory issues. Many symptoms can be noticed in the 20 to 50 years following.

Undisturbed asbestos does not pose any health risks, but when insulation, shingles, or flooring get damaged or wear out they may release harmful fibers. This can occur during a renovation or demolition project, or even during normal home usage or aging.

If you are planning to renovate your home, ask local health or environmental officials whether the building is asbestos-free. If asbestos is found in your home, have it inspected before any work can begin by an asbestos inspector who is accredited.

If you are renovating an older property, make sure that the contractors you hire have the appropriate credentials. They should be able provide an asbestos report and survey that contains an assessment on the condition of any ACM (asbestos-containing material) and their friability. The survey should also state whether the contractor will remove or leave the ACM intact.

Minor repairs are possible on certain ACM. However only a professional certified in asbestos safety should attempt these. Whatever the kind of repair, the area should be kept separate from the rest of the home and any equipment or clothing should be put in plastic bags and labeled with a warning to avoid cross-contamination.

Professionals can seal ACM or cover it to prevent fibers from being released into the air. Sealing (encapsulation) involves treating the material with a chemical which binds or covers the fibers to prevent them from becoming airborne. This can be done on insulated pipes or to cover old shingles.

Professionals can also physically remove ACM from a building. The process begins by wetting the materials in order that they can be cut or scraped with different tools, without releasing harmful fibers. The materials are then placed in airtight and durable containers that are leakproof.

Removing or fixing Asbestos

Asbestos is impervious to corrosion and heat, which has made it a very useful material in hundreds of products, including wallboard materials, fireproofing insulation and auto brakes. Asbestos is a toxic substance that can cause respiratory problems when fibers inhaled. These fibers can cause tissue inflammation and scarring in the lungs. This could impact breathing and cause serious health issues.

Asbestos can be found in numerous parts of a house which includes roof shingles cement pipes as well as floor and ceiling tiles, as well as joint compound that contains asbestos. It is important to inspect these areas frequently for tears, abrasions, or water damage. Materials that are slightly damaged can be safe as long as it's not manipulated or smashed. However should the material be damaged or you are planning to make changes in your home which could cause disturbance to it, consult with an asbestos professional.

These experts can conduct an inspection visually and collect samples. They can also provide suggestions on what adjustments are needed and who is qualified. Only professionals handle asbestos. They have been trained in specific asbestos products and should only be allowed to correct them.

You can also contact your state's local Health Department or Regional Office of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to inquire about asbestos training programs available in your area. Be aware that there are companies which falsely claim they specialize in asbestos removal. These firms can be dangerous as they encourage unneeded removals or make them in a way that isn't properly done which increases the risk of releasing harmful fibers.

The American Lung Association does not endorse these companies. Before hiring an asbestos professional it is crucial to research the company thoroughly to ensure that it's accredited and insured. You can also request references from past clients, along with evidence of accreditation and insurance coverage. It is also recommended that you examine your state's or local health and environmental agencies to learn about the procedures that should be followed if you're planning to perform any type of remodeling at home.