ASBESTOS REMOVAL

Asbestos was once a commonly used insulator because of the fact that it is fire / heat resistant, highly flexible and strong in tensile strength. Although use of the mineral group was regulated under section 112 of the Clean Air Act (1970), it remains in circulation throughout a variety of products and materials, most notably, building insulation.

A large percentage of buildings (including homes) throughout the United States remain lined with asbestos insulation. For the most part, buildings containing asbestos materials are labeled as such, providing tenants with important information so as to be aware of potential exposure risks (limiting liabilities).

If asbestos is sealed within the insulation then it is said to pose no health hazard whatsoever (the reason why known asbestos-laden buildings have not been demolished); however, if the asbestos is exposed, it can release potentially deadly asbestos fibers into your building. As a general rule of thumb, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) advises consumers to treat all insulating materials as though they contain asbestos in order to protect themselves from the potential health hazards. However, many people are unaware of the problem and may have been exposed, for example while renovating their home. It is recommended that a professional be consulted before the handling of any insulation materials so as to ensure the maximum amount of safety.

Removal or Repair?

If asbestos insulation becomes exposed, the problem can be remedied through either repair or removal. While most people might feel that removal is the safer option so as to avoid any such problems in the future, it is actually safer to simply repair the issue. The removal of asbestos insulation is a large-scale project that runs-the-risk of exposing all neighboring facilities to asbestos. It is possible for insulation to be damaged in such a way that repair is not possible, requiring removal; however, it is recommended that repair take place whenever possible.

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