Interesting Facts About Asbestos Removal

Although a naturally occurring material, asbestos has for a long time been labelled carcinogenic thanks to decades of research. Besides the rare form of cancer mesothelioma, asbestos can cause other equally life-threatening respiratory-related diseases. It is why facility managers are advised to remove asbestos and asbestos-containing material from buildings upon identification. The process must be conducted and supervised by a licenced asbestos removal company. First, however, it is prudent to familiarise yourself with the asbestos removal process to know what to expect. This write-up highlights top facts about asbestos removal.

Removal Targets Only Damaged/Exposed Asbestos

There is a common misconception that asbestos abatement companies must remove all the asbestos and asbestos-containing material (ACM) they identify in a facility. While asbestos removal guarantees safety to occupants of a building, it is vital to understand that the material is only dangerous when airborne. This is because airborne asbestos fibres are respirable through the mouth or nose. In most cases, respirable asbestos results from exposed and damaged building materials such as tiles, ceiling, and insulation. Simply, asbestos abatement companies only remove asbestos that threatens to become airborne. However, asbestos-containing material located in hard-to-reach spots can remain in good condition for a long time and are less dangerous.

Tradespersons Integral to the Process

The average person does not know what asbestos looks like because the fibres are microscopic. Therefore, how do you know when to call an asbestos abatement company? The first preliminary asbestos identification usually comes from tradesmen. In Australia, people working in the construction, plumbing, carpentry, electrical and HVAC industries should be trained in asbestos identification and handling. The reason is that disturbing the structures of properties is central to professionals' work. The labourers are usually the first to identify asbestos in buildings and can advise facility managers to call asbestos abatement companies for removal.

Breach of Asbestos Management Plan Warrants Removal

As mentioned earlier, asbestos surveyors recommend the removal of asbestos if there is a risk the material might become airborne. If the ACMs are in good condition, a surveyor will help a facility manager draw an asbestos management plan. An asbestos management plan is supposed to help facility managers monitor the material on an ongoing basis. A government-appointed asbestos surveyor will make regular visits to a facility to determine whether you follow the management plan and update it as required. Failure to follow an asbestos management plan can lead to fines, and a surveyor might recommend immediate removal of the material. It is particularly the case if you have received multiple warnings regarding a breach of the asbestos management plan.  

Contact an asbestos removal service to learn more.