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How to Identify Asbestos During the past century asbestos was used to make a variety of products stronger and more resistant to fire, and less costly. But exposure to asbestos in the air fibers could cause lung diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma. Certain diseases have a long period of latency. This makes it difficult to detect 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 corrosion-resistant, fireproof and insulation properties. However, it could cause health hazards when the microscopic fibers are inhaled. This can lead to diseases such as mesothelioma and asbestosis. The symptoms of these diseases do not show up until years, or decades after the initial exposure. They're often mistaken for flu-like symptoms. It is essential that people know how to identify asbestos. Tests for medical conditions that detect lung diseases are the most common way to determine if you have asbestos. These tests usually include a physical examination including chest X-rays, tests for pulmonary function. However, asbestos-related diseases aren't diagnosed with these tests alone, as they must be paired with a thorough medical history that looks at a person's work, home and the cultural context. Asbestos can be found in a myriad of building materials and products, including cement, paints, and floor tiles. It can also be found in doors, insulation partitions, cladding and Artex. Asbestos is difficult to identify because the fibers are so small and light. They are able to effortlessly glide through the air and breathe without anyone even noticing. They don't possess any distinct smells either. You can take a tiny sample if you suspect the material you are looking at contains asbestos. This should be done by a trained professional, because the process of removing asbestos is complex and requires special equipment. Patch the sample with duct tape in order to prevent the release of fibers and take it to an asbestos analysis laboratory accredited by the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP). The NVLAP website provides a list of accredited laboratories. It's very easy to accidentally alter the asbestos in a way, and the risk of doing so is more pronounced for certain groups of people. olathe asbestos lawyer , plumbers, and electricians are all at risk of asbestos exposure during renovations and maintenance. It's a good idea to encourage all workers in these fields to complete an asbestos awareness training course to make sure they are aware of the risks and can take the correct precautions. Take Samples A sample of the suspected material is required to conduct asbestos testing or inspection. This sample could be taken by an asbestos expert or a homeowner. However it is crucial to ensure that you do not create asbestos-containing dust that is airborne during the collection and cleaning process. The person who collects the sample should have a HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner, a water spray bottle, and disposable coveralls to protect themselves. They should wear a respirator that conforms to AS/NZS1716.2003 Respiratory safety equipment while carrying out the task. It is recommended to collect samples on the day that isn't too windy. Also, turn off the cooling or heating system. This will limit the exposure of asbestos-containing airborne particles. When collecting the sample make sure the area is completely sealed off and that pets and children are allowed to get into the. After the sample is taken and cleaned, clean the equipment and tools with a damp cloth. Place the rag into the bag, label it as asbestos waste, and dispose of it in an asbestos-free facility that is approved by the government. Place the bag that is resealable and the sample inside a second plastic bag. Seal it all together before labeling it as asbestos waste. Place a dropsheet of plastic over the area that needs to be cleaned and then wet it again. This will trap any fibres released. Asbestos samples are typically collected by using a pump and cassette system that is pre-assembled. It is important to ensure that the cassette does not get stuffed with dust. This could obscure fibers and affect the results. If the sample is collected in an area that has significant levels of non-fibrous dust, it might be necessary to use a smaller volume of air. While most research is focused on asbestos fibers that are long but epidemiological studies have shown that exposure to short asbestos fibres can trigger mesothelioma and lung cancer as well. This indicates that size is just one of the factors that affect the pathogenicity of asbestos fibres and that other parameters like chemical properties and dispersion staining, dispersion polarization and etching time are also involved. Identifying Professionals When asbestos fibers are dispersed or disturbed, they can become airborne. When inhaled, these tiny fibers can cause lung diseases. These microscopic fibers can trigger asbestosis or mesothelioma aswell with other neurological and respiratory diseases. Many symptoms can appear within 20 to 50 years. Unaltered asbestos is not a health hazard, but when materials such as flooring, insulation, and shingles are damaged, they can release harmful fibers. This could happen during a renovation or demolition project, as well as in normal use of the home or when the material ages. If you plan on remodeling your home, consult local environmental or health officials to determine if your home has asbestos-containing materials. If asbestos is discovered in your home, have it checked prior to when any work can begin by an asbestos inspector who is accredited. When renovating an older home, make sure any contractors you choose to hire have the appropriate qualifications. They must be able to provide an asbestos survey and report which includes an assessment of the state of any asbestos-containing material (ACM) and their ability to withstand friability. The survey should also include whether the contractor will take away or leave the ACM intact. Minor repairs are possible on some ACM. However only a professional who is educated in asbestos safety should attempt these. Whatever repair is completed the area must be sealed from the rest of your home. All clothing and equipment should be put into plastic bags and labeled with a warning to prevent cross-contamination. Professionals can seal ACM or cover it to stop fibers from being released into the air. Sealing (encapsulation) also referred to as encapsulation, involves treating the material in a way which binds and covers the fibers to prevent them from become airborne. This can be done on insulated pipes or to cover old shingles. Professionals can also physically remove ACM from a building. This is accomplished by wetting the materials to allow them to be cut or scraped with many tools without releasing the hazardous fibers. Then they place the material in sturdy, leak-proof and air-tight containers that are safe for disposal. Removing or repairing Asbestos Asbestos is resistant to corrosion and heat This has made it an extremely useful material for thousands of products including walls, fireproofing materials and auto brakes. However, asbestos is a toxic material that can cause respiratory issues when fibers are inhaled. These fibers can cause tissue inflammation and scarring of the lungs. This can impact breathing and cause serious health problems. Asbestos is found in many areas of a home which includes roof shingles cement pipes and floor and ceiling tiles, as well as joint compound that is made up of asbestos. It's important to check these areas on a regular basis for tears, abrasions or damage. Material that is slightly damaged may be safe as long as it's not manipulated or smashed. If the material needs to be repaired, or you're planning to make changes to your home that could disturb it, then you should seek advice from an asbestos professional. These professionals can perform an inspection visually and also take samples. They can also provide advice about the corrective measures that need to be done and who is qualified to carry out them. It is important that you let these experts manage your asbestos. These professionals are trained in specific products and should be permitted to correct them. In addition to consulting an asbestos-certified asbestos professional You should also contact your state or local health department or regional office of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for information about asbestos-related training programs in your region. Beware of firms who claim to be experts in asbestos removal. These companies are risky because they encourage or perform unneeded removals, which increase the possibility of harmful asbestos fibers being released. The American Lung Association does NOT endorse these companies. It is crucial to thoroughly research the company before hiring an asbestos professional to ensure that it is properly certified and insured. You can ask for references from previous clients, as well as proof of insurance and accreditation. It is also recommended to check with your state or local health and environmental agencies for the proper procedures to follow if you plan to remodel your home.