Asbestos used to be widely used in construction, but now, it’s avoided and removed as soon as its presence is identified! But what actually is asbestos? Why is it so dangerous? And how can we remove it safely? This guide is going to answer all these questions and more!
We’ll cover everything you need to know about asbestos removal, starting with a clear explanation of what asbestos is and why exposure can be so dangerous. You’ll learn why safe and thorough removal is crucial, especially during renovations or demolition. We’ll break down the asbestos removal process step-by-step and explain the risks associated with DIY removal versus hiring a professional team. Finally, we'll share expert tips on how to choose a reputable Newcastle asbestos removal team to ensure your project is carried out with the highest standards of safety and care!
So whether you're a homeowner, contractor, or simply curious about asbestos safety, this guide will equip you with the knowledge you need to carry out safe and successful asbestos removal!
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals made up of thin, flexible fibres that are highly heat-resistant and durable. Because of these unique and valuable properties, asbestos has become a popular material in many industries, but especially in construction and manufacturing! It was widely used for its ability to resist heat, fire, and chemical damage, as well as its excellent insulating capabilities.
In the mid-20th century, asbestos was a key component in products such as insulation, roofing shingles, floor tiles, cement, and pipe coatings. It was also commonly used in brake pads, gaskets, and fireproof clothing. Buildings constructed before the late 1980s often contain asbestos in materials like ceiling tiles, drywall, and textured paint.
Although asbestos was valued for its versatility and affordability, it was hiding some nasty side effects. As these risks became better understood, their use dramatically declined!
What Are The Asbestos Exposure Risks?
Asbestos exposure occurs when its fibres become airborne and are inhaled or ingested. These microscopic fibres can become lodged in the lungs or other tissues, leading to serious, long-term health complications. The primary health risks that have been linked with asbestos exposure include asbestosis (which is a chronic lung condition caused by scarring), mesothelioma (a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen), and lung cancer.
Asbestos-related diseases typically develop over many years, meaning symptoms might not appear until decades after you’ve been exposed to asbestos. Even brief exposure to high levels of asbestos can be hazardous, though prolonged exposure, such as in occupational settings, poses the most significant risk.
People who work in construction, demolition, or renovation, especially on older buildings, are at higher risk of exposure. Improperly handling asbestos-containing materials during home projects can release harmful fibres, making professional assessment and removal essential to minimise exposure risks.
Because of these serious health risks, removal is a vital process that must be carried out at the first sign of asbestos. But how can you know if your home is hiding asbestos? Let’s see.
How Do You Know If Your Home Contains Asbestos?
The tricky thing about asbestos is that it’s not always easy to spot. Asbestos fibres are microscopic, so visual inspection alone isn’t enough to confirm their presence. The safest way to know for sure is to hire a licensed asbestos professional who can take samples and conduct laboratory testing.
However, if your home was built before the 1980s, it will likely have some asbestos-containing materials! The most common areas where asbestos is found are in insulation, floor tiles, ceiling tiles, roofing shingles, textured walls, and pipe coatings.
If you suspect your home may have asbestos, then avoid disturbing potential asbestos materials, as they can release harmful fibres. If you're planning renovations or repairs in an older home, a professional asbestos inspection is highly recommended for safety! Then, once asbestos has been identified, it’s time for asbestos removal.
What Equipment Is Required For Asbestos Removal?
Asbestos removal requires specialised safety equipment to prevent exposure to harmful fibres. Essential personal protective equipment (PPE) includes a respirator with a HEPA filter, disposable coveralls with a hood, gloves, boot covers, and safety goggles. To prevent fibre spread, plastic sheeting and tape are used to seal off the work area. Industrial-grade HEPA vacuums are essential for cleaning up debris without releasing fibres back into the air. Negative air pressure machines are also needed to help contain airborne particles. Proper asbestos waste bags marked for hazardous materials are required for safe disposal. Using the correct equipment ensures safe, compliant asbestos removal and disposal!
The Asbestos Removal Process
The asbestos removal process is a highly regulated procedure designed to safely eliminate asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) while minimising the release of dangerous fibres. Here’s the entire process, step-by-step:
Asbestos Inspection and Assessment
A licensed professional should conduct this to determine if asbestos is present. Once identified, an asbestos removal plan will then be created, outlining the scope of work and safety measures.
Prepare The Area
The removal process begins with sealing off the area using plastic sheeting and creating negative air pressure to prevent fibres from escaping into surrounding areas.
Remove The Asbestos
The removal team, equipped with protective gear, carefully extracts asbestos-containing materials using specialised tools to avoid disturbing the fibres. HEPA vacuums are used to clean up dust and debris, and all waste is placed in hazardous material bags labelled for proper disposal.
Clean and Inspect
Once the removal is complete, the area is thoroughly cleaned and inspected to ensure no fibres remain. A professional can then conduct air quality testing to confirm the space is safe for reoccupation.
Is DIY Asbestos Removal Safe?
Proper asbestos removal must follow strict local and federal regulations to ensure safety and legal compliance. Trying to remove asbestos yourself without the appropriate training is extremely dangerous and can result in serious health hazards and costly fines!
DIY asbestos removal is highly unsafe and not recommended. As we learnt earlier, asbestos fibres are tiny and can quickly be released into the air if they are disturbed, posing significant health risks if inhaled. Without proper training, protective equipment, and containment procedures, even a tiny mistake can release hazardous fibres into the air, which increases the risk of exposure to you and others in the vicinity!
Professional asbestos removal teams are trained to handle asbestos safely and use specialised tools, respirators, and negative air systems to prevent fibre spread. They will always follow strict regulations to ensure the safe disposal of asbestos-containing materials.
How To Choose The Best Asbestos Removal Team
Choosing the right asbestos removal team is crucial to ensure the job is done safely, legally, and efficiently! Make sure that you verify that the company has the necessary licenses and certifications to perform safe asbestos removal. Check for certifications that comply with local and national regulations, as this guarantees the team has the training and expertise needed.
A reputable asbestos removal team will always provide you with a detailed inspection and removal plan, explaining each step of the process, including safety precautions, containment methods, and waste disposal procedures. They should also offer proof of insurance to cover potential accidents or damages during the removal process!
Look for companies with a track record of good reviews and a strong safety record. Transparency is key, so choose a team that communicates openly and provides a clear, upfront quote without hidden fees. Additionally, confirm that they conduct post-removal air quality testing to make sure the area is safe to enter. Always avoid contractors who rush the process or don’t follow proper procedures, as this can put your health at risk!
If you’re looking for reputable and professional asbestos removal in Newcastle, Australia, then check out ABS Asbestos Removal. They are a licensed, experienced, and trustworthy asbestos removal team that will ensure your home or workplace is free from asbestos hazards, giving you peace of mind and long-term safety!