Isolating Your Building from Asbestos

Mar 12
10:30

2013

Leighanna Cumbie

Leighanna Cumbie

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Asbestos was a commonly used insulation material used in many different ways. Asbestos material could be mixed with an adhesive and sprayed onto concrete to insulate between floors in a large building. Electrical cords would also utilize asbestos to insulate the wiring. The wide use of asbestos can be attributed to the low cost of the material, flexibility in application, and wide availability. Prior to beginning your renovation or remodel, surfaces areas should be tested by a Certified Asbestos Inspector to ensure the area is safe for the crews to begin their work.

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Asbestos was a commonly used insulation material used in many different ways.  Asbestos material could be mixed with an adhesive and sprayed onto concrete to insulate between floors in a large building.  Electrical cords would also utilize asbestos to insulate the wiring.  The wide use of asbestos can be attributed to the low cost of the material,Isolating Your Building from Asbestos Articles flexibility in application, and wide availability.  Prior to beginning your renovation or remodel, surfaces areas should be tested by a Certified Asbestos Inspector to ensure the area is safe for the crews to begin their work.

 

The remodeling and renovation process of any older building could endanger the construction crew if asbestos is present.  The hazardous material can be inhaled by the workers and lead to long term health problems.  The Certified Asbestos Inspector will take samples of the different surface areas and send them to a lab for analysis.  The samples will be individually labeled to keep track of the different surfaces and to later be able to pinpoint any surfaces that contain asbestos.  If asbestos is present, the Certified Asbestos Inspector can oversee the removal process to ensure the area remains safe.

 

The area is typically sealed off to ensure other areas are not contaminated during the removal process.  Microscopic particles can be suspended in the air and it is critical the workers utilize protective equipment to remain safe.  Full face respirators are typically utilized to ensure the particles are filtered, along with body suits to keep clothing from becoming contaminated.   A special ventilation system is put in place to filter fresh air into the sealed area.

 

Asbestos can be incredibly hazardous and a proactive approach is required to keep workers safe.  Click hereto contact a Certified Asbestos Inspector to test your facility or space prior to starting your remodel.  The wide use of the material increases the likelihood of encountering the substance in older buildings.  Companies have a duty to protect their workers from the harmful effects of hazards encountered on the job.  Start your project off on the right foot by testing for the presence of asbestos prior to the tear down phase of your renovating project.  Insulate your company from the harmful effects of asbestos by actively protecting your employees and taking the proper precautions.  Negligent companies can encounter stiff fines from by OSHA and the EPA for mishandling any encounters with asbestos and unnecessarily endangering employees due to a lack of proper preparation.