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5 Tips to Safely Remove Asbestos in Buildings

It may seem like just another routine cleaning task, lifting carpet tiles or stripping ceiling panels in an old building. Then someone says ‘asbestos,’ and everyone freezes.

And we don’t blame them.

Asbestos is not only dust. It is a harmful substance that is associated with lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. The World Health Organization estimates that 125 million workers are exposed to asbestos annually, with over 90,000 deaths caused by related illnesses each year.

You may be at risk of encountering asbestos if you are dealing with an older building, particularly one constructed before the 1980s. Knowing how to remove asbestos safely is not just about following rules; it’s about protecting lives and ensuring the safety of those around you.

Here are five expert-backed tips to help you go through the asbestos removal process safely and responsibly.

Tip 1: Develop an Extensive Removal Plan

As soon as asbestos is found, the second step is not demolition but a plan. It is not advisable to start the removal straight away without proper planning and consideration; it can be dangerous for everyone. A good plan will contain:

The extent of the affected area.
Working when there are few people around.
Informing tenants and employees about the schedule.
Coordinating with approved asbestos-removing experts.

Make this step a blueprint for safety. The better your plan, the smoother and safer the asbestos removal process will be. It also emphasizes the importance of adhering strictly to local and federal safety regulations from the outset.

Tip 2: Don’t Do It, Unless Necessary

One of the most critical tips for asbestos removal is simple: avoid disturbing asbestos unless removal is essential.

Asbestos becomes most hazardous when it turns into a friable form, meaning it can crumble into free microscopic fibers that become airborne. When it is intact and undamaged, it is better to seal or cover it up instead of removing it.

Just consider it like old lead paint; it is not dangerous until it starts to flake or chip.

It is essential to consult a certified professional when making any decision regarding the handling or disposal of the material.

Tip 3: Hiring Licensed Professionals

Never attempt to safely remove asbestos on your own.

Even a minor disturbance can send fibers into the air, exposing you and others, which can persist for several hours. Trained asbestos removal contractors can remove the materials in a strict safety regime with the utilization of:

Splinter-proof armor products.
Negative air pressure containment systems.
HEPA-filtered vacuums.
Sealed disposal methods.

In many states, removing asbestos without a proper license and training is illegal and can lead to heavy fines and legal consequences.

The asbestos removal process must comply with federal and state regulations, including the EPA’s Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) and OSHA standards.

Tip 4: Apply Containment and Ventilation Measures

One of the more technical but crucial asbestos removal tips is to completely seal off the work area.

This includes:

Using plastic sheeting on floors and walls.
Switching off the HVAC is a way to prevent fiber circulation.
Creation of a negative pressure environment to prevent the fiber from escaping.

Proper ventilation is crucial, but during asbestos removal, never open windows or use fans, as this can spread hazardous fibers. Don’t open any windows or use fans during removal. Sealed air machines are used by professionals, equipped with HEPA filters that trap the injurious fibers before they spread.

Suppose you tried cleaning glitter; you would not wish it to spread all around the house. The behavior of asbestos fibers is no different, except that the consequences are much more severe.

Tip 5: Disposal of Asbestos Materials

After the removal is over, the hazard does not stop.

Any asbestos waste should be stored in two bags, clearly labeled, and disposed of in an EPA-approved landfill. Improper or unauthorized disposal of asbestos waste is not only unsafe but also illegal.

The EPA provides directions that the asbestos debris must be:

Covered in leak-tight containers.
Distinctively labeled as dangerous.
Hauled through authorized truckers.

A chain of custody form and documentation are usually required to track waste from removal to a disposal site.

Improper disposal can result in high penalties and health risks for waste workers and the general public.

Conclusion: Safety First, Always

It may seem that asbestos is a thing of the past. However, it still lurks in millions of buildings in the U.S. Regardless of whether you are renovating, purchasing, or operating a property, this issue must be addressed thoughtfully.

Here’s a quick recap of how to safely remove asbestos:

First, devise a viable plan.
Leave it alone when it is intact.
Hire licensed professionals for removal.
Contain and ventilate the place effectively.
Get rid of it legally.

Health comes first, and every extra effort made in this regard is worth it.

At GreenWorks Inspections, we understand that working with asbestos can be a challenging task. And because of that, we provide in-depth inspection, testing, and expert advice to assist you in dealing with it in a safe and legal manner.

Do not leave the removal of asbestos to chance.

Contact Greenworks now for expert help in navigating the asbestos removal process, from inspection to certified abatement referrals. It’s time to make your building secure once more and in the right way.