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How to Identify Asbestos Over the course of the last century asbestos was utilized in thousands of products to make them stronger, more fire-resistant and less costly. However, exposure to asbestos-containing airborne fibers can cause lung disease such as mesothelioma and asbestosis. Certain of these diseases could have a long-lasting latent period. This means it is difficult for people to spot the issue before it's late. Identifying Asbestos Asbestos is a range of naturally occurring minerals. They were used in building materials for their anti-corrosive, fire-proof and insulating properties. Inhaling the microscopic fibres can cause health hazards. This can lead to diseases such as mesothelioma and asbestosis. The symptoms of these diseases don't appear until years, even decades after first exposure. They're frequently mistaken for flu-like symptoms. It is essential that people know how to identify the asbestos. The most common way to identify asbestos is through medical tests to look for lung diseases. These tests include physical exams, chest X rays and lung function tests. These tests are not sufficient to identify asbestos-related diseases. They should be paired with a complete history of the patient that includes details about the patient's work, home, and the environment in which they live. Asbestos can be found in a wide range of building materials and products, including cement, paints and floor tiles. It is also present in insulation, doors partitions, cladding and Artex. Asbestos is difficult for people to detect because the fibers are small and light. They can easily float through the air and breathe without anyone not even realizing. They also don't create any distinct smells. You can take a tiny sample if you suspect the material you are looking at contains asbestos. This should only be done by a qualified professional, because the process of removing asbestos is complex and requires specialized equipment. Send the sample to an accredited asbestos analysis lab through the National Voluntary Laboratory Assessment Program (NVLAP). The NVLAP website provides an inventory of accredited laboratories. Certain groups of people are more at risk of accidentally causing damage to asbestos. Construction workers, plumbers, and electricians are at risk of exposure to asbestos in maintenance and renovations. oceanside asbestos attorneys '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 use the proper precautions. Take Samples For asbestos testing or inspection for asbestos testing or inspection, a sample of the material in question is required. The sample can be collected by a qualified asbestos consultant or by the homeowner, however it is important to reduce the amount of dust that contains asbestos during the process of collecting the sample and when cleaning up afterwards. The person who takes the sample will usually require an air vacuum cleaner with HEPA filters along with a spray bottle of water, and disposable covers for protection. They should also wear a respirator that conforms to AS/NZS1716.2003 Respiratory protective devices when performing the task. It is recommended to conduct the sample collection on a not stormy day. Also, ensure that cooling or heating systems are off, so that there is less chance of release of any asbestos-containing airborne particles. When collecting the sample make sure that the area is sealed and that pets and children are allowed to enter. After the sample has been taken, wipe down all tools and equipment with a damp cloth. Place the rag in the bag, label it as asbestos waste, and dispose of it at an asbestos-free facility that is approved by the government. Place the resealable bag along with the sample inside a second plastic bag. Seal it all together before declaring it asbestos waste. Make sure to rinse the area to be cleaned again, and place a plastic drop sheet over it to collect any released fibres. Asbestos is usually collected using a pre-assembled pump and cassette system. It is important to ensure that the cassette doesn't get overloaded with dust. This can block out fibers and affect the results. If the sample is taken in an area with high levels of dust that is non-fibrous, the smaller volume of air could be used. The epidemiological studies showed that asbestos fibres of short length can also trigger mesothelioma or lung cancer. This indicates that size is not the only one factor that influences the pathogenicity of asbestos fibres and that other factors like chemical properties and dispersion staining, polarization and etching times are as well. Identifying Professionals When asbestos fibers are dispersed or disturbed they can be airborne. If inhaled, these microscopic fibers can cause lung diseases. These microscopic fibers can cause asbestosis or mesothelioma, as well with other neurological and respiratory disorders. The symptoms can manifest from after 20 to 50 years. Unaltered asbestos isn't dangerous to health, however when materials such as flooring, insulation and shingles are damaged, they may release harmful fibers. This can happen when you are working on a renovation or demolition project, and also during normal home use or when the material ages. If you're planning to make changes to your home, ask your local health or environment officials whether the building is asbestos-free. If asbestos is discovered in your home, it is recommended to have it checked prior to when any work begins by an accredited asbestos inspector. If you are renovating an older home, be sure that the contractors you hire possess the right credentials. They should be able to provide an asbestos report and a survey that includes an assessment on the condition of any ACM (asbestos-containing material) and their friability. The survey should specify whether or the contractor will be removing the ACM. Minor repairs can be made on some ACM. However only a professional educated in the safe handling of asbestos should attempt these. Whatever the type of repair, the area must be kept separate from the rest of the house and any contaminated equipment or clothing should be placed in plastic baggies and labeled with a warning so as to avoid cross-contamination. Professionals can seal ACM or cover it to stop fibers from being released into the environment. Sealing (encapsulation) involves treating the material with a substance that binds or coats fibers to keep them from being airborne. This can be done on insulated pipes or to cover old shingles. Professionals are also able to physically remove ACM. The materials are then soaked so that they can be cut using a variety of tools without releasing harmful fibers. The material is then placed in airtight and durable containers that are leakproof. Removing or fixing Asbestos Asbestos is invulnerable to corrosion and heat. This makes it a great material for a variety of products like wallboards insulation, fireproofing, and auto brakes. Asbestos is a toxic substance that can cause respiratory problems when fibers are inhaled. These fibers can cause tissue inflammation and scarring in the lungs. This can be detrimental to breathing and can cause serious health issues. Asbestos can be found in a variety of areas of a house such as roof shingles, cement pipes as well as floor and ceiling tiles and joint compound that is made up of asbestos. Be sure to check these areas for water damage, abrasions, or tears. If the material is slightly damaged, it may be safe to touch or even disturb. If the material must be repaired, or you're planning to make changes to your home that could disturb it, then consult an asbestos professional. These experts can conduct an inspection visually and collect samples. They can also offer advice on what corrections are required and who's qualified. It is essential that you only have these experts manage your asbestos. These professionals are certified in specific products and should only be allowed to correct them. In addition to speaking with an asbestos-certified asbestos professional and contacting your state or local health department or regional office of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for information about asbestos training programs in your area. Be aware of firms who claim to be experts in asbestos removal. These firms are dangerous because they encourage or perform unnecessary removals, increasing the likelihood of harmful fibers being released. The American Lung Association does NOT endorse these companies. Before hiring an asbestos specialist it is essential to investigate the company thoroughly to make sure it's properly certified and insured. You can also request references from former clients as and proof of insurance coverage and accreditation. You should also consult your local or state health and environmental departments for the correct steps to follow if intend to remodel your home.