Trying to DIY the asbestos abatement process isn't a wise decision. Hiring professionals to do this dangerous work for you is the safest decision you can make, whether you're dealing with the threat of asbestos in a commercial, public, or residential building. Abatement companies have advanced safety gear and equipment and they're well-trained in the right processes.
So, here's what you need to know before hiring an asbestos abatement company.
What is asbestos abatement?
While not banned in the United States, the use of asbestos is very limited as ACM (asbestos-containing materials) are recognized as hazardous to the public. Still, they were widely used in building products up until the 1980s and they can still be found in insulation and other products today.
Think you have asbestos? An asbestos abatement company can come in and test your site while following processes and regulations that will keep them, you, and others safe from exposure. Thorough asbestos abatement will involve identifying, removing, and repairing the place where asbestos was found. They'll also know how to encapsulate the toxic asbestos fibers and safely eliminate them.
Why is abatement important?
If asbestos-containing materials are damaged, the asbestos fibers can be released into the air, which can endanger you and others who come in contact with the dust, fibers, or raw material. If you think you have asbestos, you should keep all children and pets out of the area. You should also limit all activities in the area until you have a test completed. Your next step should be calling a licensed asbestos abatement company.
If you think you have asbestos, you should also avoid sweeping or vacuuming the area as stirring up dust or debris could be dangerous. If you see suspicious materials, don't touch them, just leave them as they are and have professionals with the right protective equipment come in to take care of them.
Hiring an Abatement Company
Not all abatement companies are created equal. Some specialize in abatement while others offer demolition, general contracting, and environmental services alongside abatement. In the United States, asbestos regulations are handled at the state and city level, with some having requirements that go beyond federal OSHA and EPA requirements.
As a homeowner, you are not legally required to use a licensed abatement company, but it is highly recommended. As far as the type of abatement work you may need, it's divided into three classes:
Class I: Remove asbestos that's used as insulation and any other surfacing material that's suspected of containing asbestos.
Class II: Remove non thermal asbestos materials like floors, wallboards, roofing, and siding along with construction mastics.
Class III: Repair and maintenance for any asbestos-containing materials that may be disturbed.
Class III is the most common type of abatement work and it all starts by reaching out to a certified asbestos inspector who will take samples of the suspected asbestos and send them to a lab for analysis before helping you decide how to proceed
Albany Asbestos is a local asbestos testing/inspection company.
Albany Asbestos LLC is located in Albany NY that has performed thousands of inspections. Give us a call today for all of your asbestos inspection, testing and surveying needs.
Book Online or Call: (518) 964-2081