Despite the health effects of asbestos towards human bodies, asbestos is still used in many house construction until 1989. Consequently, homes built prior to 1989 are very likely to contain asbestos. Having the asbestos removed can prevent it from hurting your health for the future. As a result, some business owners will ask for an asbestos abatement process to remove the asbestos in their facilities.
Key Facts about Asbestos
According to Mesothelioma Diagnosis, asbestos that is undisturbed and in good condition is not dangerous. However, as time goes by, the fibers inside asbestos can become airborne and exposed to humans. In order to remove the toxin, facility managers are likely to contact a certified asbestos professional to conduct the asbestos abatement process, since there are strict laws for how asbestos can be handled and removed.
Detrimental Effects of Asbestos
If the harmful asbestos is not removed, asbestos can lead to serious health issues like mesothelioma cancer, asbestosis, pleural plaques and asbestos lung cancer, according to the Mesothelioma Center.
In fact, about 3,000 people are diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases every year.
Steps of Asbestos Abatement Process
According to ERI, in a typical asbestos abatement process, the licensed professionals will first regulated work area. Since asbestos can be airborne, it is important to seal air ducts, disable HVAC systems and set up negative pressure equipment before doing anything to the building. Technicians will also cover the walls, floor and ceilings to protect the surface from asbestos.
The second step is to remove the materials. Licensed technicians will use tools to remove asbestos-containing materials. The technicians have to do the work wearing abatement suits and use air monitoring equipment to prevent health damage from asbestos. The asbestos waste will then be placed in a special disposal bag and taken to a protective dumpster.
The last step is to high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuuming. HEPA will ensure that any lingering asbestos particles in the air are removed. After multiple HEPA vacuums, technicians will make sure the asbestos is completely removed from your building before wrapping up the project.
And please note that, if EnergyLink is helping you with a project, our certified technicians will help you conduct the asbestos abatement process if the need arises to ensure your building is free of asbestos.
If you want to learn more about the asbestos abatement process and how we can help you remove the asbestos, click here to contact us!